“I stand tall today” – hear from trailblazing college graduates across Africa

Sparkle, Crop Science Technology graduate, Zimbabwe

I’m determined to promote food security in my community by sharing my climate-smart knowledge, and support farmers with sustainable farming techniques.

As a woman from rural Hurungwe, my degree has been transformative by opening doors to valuable professional networks across the country. I’ve become an expert in sustainable farming practices through laboratory research and hands-on experience in the field. While conducting an internship as part of my degree, I engaged directly with farming communities, educating them on climate-smart agriculture to boost crop production.

Today I am a certified Agronomist and proud member of the CAMFED Association. I encourage secondary school students in my community to pursue agriculture as a vital and rewarding career path. I aim to support my community further by teaching sustainable farming techniques, and connecting farmers with better resources and networks to boost their earnings.

Sethule, Media and Society studies graduate, Zimbabwe

To girls in secondary school: Your voice matters – use it to advocate for yourself and others. Focus on your strengths, celebrate your accomplishments, and never underestimate the power of perseverance.

I’m a CAMFED Association member from Nkayi District, and now a graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Society studies from the University of Zimbabwe! My further education journey doesn’t end there, as I am now pursuing a Master’s degree in Media and Communications.

As an educated leader, I am committed to advocating for the next generation of girls. I lead sessions in my district to motivate girls at secondary school, and share information about my education journey so more girls can learn about a career path in media and journalism.

In my future career, I hope to work in an organization that is fostering positive social change, where I can use my knowledge of strategic communications to address the pressing challenges faced by rural communities like mine, such as gender inequality, lack of access to healthcare services, and the effects of climate change.

Nakidu, Midwife, Ghana

My diploma has brought out the true me, shaping me into a confident woman with a can-do spirit. I am a powerful role model for girls in my community.

Growing up, my family faced financial challenges after my father sadly passed, leaving my mother to care for me and my 13 other siblings. Through my own hard work, and with support from CAMFED and family members, I managed to complete senior high school and pursue a midwifery diploma at Kpembe Nursing and Midwifery Training College.

I am now working as a professional midwife in a hospital, delivering critical, high-quality healthcare to mothers and their babies. I am multiplying the benefits of my education by contributing towards improved health outcomes in my district. I lead education sessions on health related topics in the community and in schools. I’m proud to be a powerful role model, encouraging secondary students – especially girls – to pursue their goals in education.

To say I am excited for my future would be an understatement! I plan to further my medical education and become a lecturer at a training college, where I can mentor aspiring midwives.

Tendai, Financial Mathematics graduate, Zimbabwe

My academic achievements have boosted my confidence, and I now feel equipped to tackle complex challenges.

Through my hard work and determination, and with CAMFED’s support, I earned a Bachelors of Science in Financial Mathematics from the University of Zimbabwe. But my academic journey was not without hurdles due to changing from a science to a commercial degree part way through. I surrounded myself with motivating friends and joined study groups, which helped me stay on track. I also learned the importance of nurturing supportive relationships, persevering in the face of adversity, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.

My degree has equipped me with advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling me to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s economic development. I’ve gained expertise in financial modeling, risk management, and data analysis. Through the CAMFED Association network, I hope to mentor and inspire more girls to pursue higher education, and help to develop women’s financial independence in rural communities.

Ellen, Medical Laboratory Sciences graduate, Zimbabwe

My degree has equipped me to be a passionate scientist, committed to saving lives.

Since 2014, when CAMFED stepped in to support my education, I’ve been on an incredible journey that led me to graduate with a degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences from the University of Zimbabwe. During my time at university, l gained a lot of skills, including public speaking. I can now stand confidently in front of people and present my work.

As part of my course, I gained hands-on experience at the National Blood Service and a private pathology laboratory, where I developed my professional skills by collaborating with colleagues. These experiences helped me blossom into an excellent medical laboratory scientist.

I’m proud to be a leader and role model in my community. I am encouraging the next generation of girls to pursue their passion for science subjects, and show that women can succeed in typically male-dominated fields.

Monica, Human Resources and Management graduate, Tanzania

After receiving support from CAMFED, my life changed significantly. I no longer had negative thoughts; instead, I focused on studying to create a better future for myself.

Raised by my grandmother in the rural district of Iringa, I received vital support from CAMFED throughout secondary school. This included stationery, uniforms, shoes, and hostel fees, which I previously lacked due to financial challenges.

In 2021, I was selected to study at the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA), where I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources and Management. With an interest-free loan from CAMFED and profits from my business, I was able to cover both my university fees and living expenses, while expanding my business. Today, I am a proud degree holder, paying forward my education by supporting others.

In 2023, I was elected the Assistant Chairperson, and later, Assistant Treasurer, for the CAMFED Association chapter in Dar es Salaam. I also volunteer as a CAMFED Business Guide, mentoring other young women in the network to become successful entrepreneurs.