Hear from leaders in our pan-African sisterhood!

Hawaji, IT Graduate, Malawi

“When girls are educated, they understand their rights and are better equipped to break the cycle of poverty… They will have greater opportunities to be employed and achieve their full potential.”

My interest in technology began in primary school, as I had a strong desire to understand how things worked. However, my progress was nearly cut short when my family couldn’t afford the essentials I needed to attend secondary school and pursue my learning ambitions. Then CAMFED stepped in to support my education, and I was filled with hope for a brighter future.

With CAMFED’s support I gained confidence, started envisioning possibilities and setting goals for myself. I completed secondary school and joined the CAMFED Association of women leaders. This network is very important because it connects all of us CAMFED sisters, so we can learn from each other, share experiences, and encourage one another. Together, we carry out philanthropic activities in our communities. I motivate other women to fulfill their potential, engage in community projects such as tree planting, and support disadvantaged children with school essentials like notebooks and pens.

Growing up, I always saw technology as a means of bringing about positive change, so with CAMFED’s support I studied for a Bachelor’s degree in Information and Communications Technology. It’s very important for women to pursue careers in technology and break the stereotype that only men can excel in this field. My next goal is to pursue a Master’s degree in Cyber Security. In 10 years’ time, I see myself being financially independent with my own tech businesses, creating job opportunities and mentoring other women in tech.

Salifyanji, Agripreneur, Zambia

“I believe my climate-smart farming knowledge will play an important role in helping my community to become more food secure, and enable me to support more children, including my family members, to succeed in school.”

Growing up, my parents struggled to afford basic necessities for me and my four siblings, and my family survived through the generosity of our community. Everything changed when I was identified by my School Based Committee as being at risk of dropping out of school, and I began receiving support from CAMFED. It was the first time in my life I was able to wear a new pair of shoes.

After graduating from secondary school, I joined the CAMFED Association of women leaders educated with CAMFED’s support, and took part in CAMFED’s Transition Program, learning life and business skills. I was awarded a small business grant from CAMFED and began selling groceries. With my profits, I proudly started supporting my brother in school. As my business grew, I diversified into farming and benefited from training in climate-smart farming techniques led by a CAMFED Agriculture Guide.

Determined to expand my business further, I used another grant from CAMFED to purchase and plant soybeans — a nutritious crop. I use climate-smart techniques such as mulching, which involves covering soil with organic material to preserve moisture and improve soil condition. I am looking forward to spreading the word in my community about my new sustainable approaches to farming.

Ulither, Entrepreneur, Former Learner Guide, and BTEC holder, Zimbabwe

“As a Learner Guide, l gained confidence to become a voice for the voiceless in my community. Now, l am able to advocate for my rights and the rights of others.”

Growing up in a single parent family in rural Zimbabwe, my life was very hard. The high cost of school fees, stationery and uniform became a barrier to my education. When CAMFED stepped in to support me, I felt so happy — like I had wings to fly to the highest range! After completing school, I joined the CAMFED Association of women leaders — a home for transformation and plowing back to the community. l am who l am today because of this network. My CAMFED sisters have inspired me to excel in leadership and education.

Through CAMFED, I got the opportunity to volunteer at my former secondary school as a Learner Guide – a ‘big sister’ and role model for vulnerable girls. In addition, I undertook a BTEC Level 3 Advanced Diploma – an internationally recognized vocational qualification – which enriched my CV and helped me towards my goal of becoming a Social Worker.

I’ve also ventured into the mobile phone and accessories business, receiving training from CAMFED on market research, value addition, and financial record keeping. I use my profits to pay school fees for my children, as well as contributing to the CAMFED Association philanthropy fund. My hope for the future is to grow as a philanthropist and to continue furthering my education. Now, l am a game changer in my community, inspiring others with my story.

Elizabeth, Learner Guide and Entrepreneur, Malawi

“Poverty is multifaceted – each one of us can do something in order to reduce the levels and it starts with me.”

Having received unwavering support through school from my community and CAMFED, I am committed to paying it forward by motivating other children to remain in education and achieve their goals. As a CAMFED trained Learner Guide, I help to identify vulnerable girls at risk of dropping out of school. I provide a crucial home-school link by conducting home visits and initiating encouraging discussions with parents about the importance of girls’ education.

Alongside my role as a Learner Guide and running a business, I’m also studying to reach my goal of attending teacher training college. My secret to staying on top of all my different activities is proper planning and having passion – which acts as the main driver in everything I do.

Fatuma, Learner Guide and student representative at The East African Community (EAC) Women's Intergenerational Dialog, Tanzania

“My experiences as a Learner Guide and student representative at the East African Community Women’s Intergenerational Dialog have given me the confidence to speak boldly and lead effectively.”

With the support of CAMFED and the sisterhood, my path has been one of resilience and determination despite the odds stacked against me. After completing school, I trained as a CAMFED Learner Guide – a ‘big sister’ and mentor to support vulnerable girls to stay in school. My role as a Learner Guide has given me the confidence to speak boldly and lead effectively. Now, in my second year at college, my leadership skills have blossomed.

Recognizing my potential, my college recommended me as one of the student representatives for the Intergenerational Dialog on Women in Leadership, held at the East Africa Community Headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania. I stood tall with leaders from eight African countries, as I represented my college and the aspirations of countless young women. I learned invaluable lessons about igniting the power of women to become effective leaders, lessons that I carry with me as I continue to inspire and lead.