My Journey with the TuWezeshe Leadership Programme, Afua
When I first came across the TuWezeshe Leadership Programme, I was immediately drawn to its mission of empowering young African women. The vision of cultivating leaders who could address and overcome gender-based challenges resonated deeply with me.
I had previous completed a youth leadership program at my local youth centre. However, the focus of that programme didn’t connect me with work that was happening on the African continent or organisations that were working both in the UK and Africa. My initial impressions of the programme were overwhelmingly positive; I was excited to be part of the TuWezeshe leadership program as it was another avenue to understand my heritage and matters that affected both diaspora communities and those on the continent.
Personal Impact and Gained Skills
The TuWezeshe Leadership Programme – unlike any other I had previously attended really emphasised understanding of myself as a woman in addition to addressing certain cultural perceptions I had as part of my heritage culture. Through intensive workshops and mentorship sessions, I was able to unpack some of these perceptions, rising above certain mindsets I held previously as part of primary socialisation.
Overall, it really helped affirm my African identity and gave me confidence to take up space in the diaspora and to talk about matters on the continent. I gained invaluable skills and qualities while developing a stronger sense of self-awareness and confidence, which has been crucial in my journey as a leader.
Continuing Development Post-TuWezeshe
The end of the TuWezeshe programme was not the end of my leadership development. On the contrary, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. I have continued to build on the foundation laid by the programme through ongoing education, participation in leadership forums, and engagement in community projects. Networking with fellow alumni and other leaders has also been instrumental to my growth. Noteworthy leadership positions I have taken include:
- Serving on the Advisory Committee of the Government Art Collection as one of its first youth board members. I took up this position in 2022 in the hope that my passion for youth work, the arts and culture could be translated into a lasting impact in the art space.
The Tuwezeshe Challenge: Furthering My Work
Access to the Tuwezeshe Challenge has been a game-changer for my current work with young women in Africa. The funding and support provided by the challenge from FORWARD created the African Women Leadership Forum (AWLF) with Precious Fountain Foundation (PFF) where we selected 30 young women out of 833 applications from passionate women in 18 different African countries.
This was a 5-week programme; empowering young women through education, skill development, and advocacy. The result has also facilitated partnerships with other organizations, amplifying our impact. The challenge has been instrumental in creating a ripple effect, where 12 empowered young women went on to empower others in their communities through their funded social actions initiatives that focused on gender and leadership.
Advice for Young Women who you recently trained as part of the AWLF?
To the young women recently trained as part of the African Women Leadership Forum (AWLF), my advice is simple: believe in your potential and never underestimate the power of your voice. Leadership is not about having all the answers but about being willing to learn and grow continuously. Seek out mentors and allies who can support and guide you, and always strive to uplift others as you climb. Remember, the journey of leadership is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay committed to your vision, and let your passion drive you forward.
In conclusion, the TuWezeshe Leadership Programme has been a transformative experience that continues to shape my path. It has provided me with the tools, network, and confidence to lead effectively and to make a lasting impact on the lives of young women in Africa. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and look forward to contributing to the next generation of female leaders.
Again, I will share one of my favourite quotes by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, “The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.”
By sharing this journey, I hope to inspire other young women to pursue leadership roles and to become catalysts for change in their communities. Together, we can create a more equitable and just world for all.
