Raising Teenagers Uganda, in partnership with Wezesha Girls Network Uganda members hosted a powerful post-International Day of the Girl Child (#IDGC) celebration under the theme “Young Leaders, Bold Voices.” This event, brought together young changemakers and advocates, aimed at amplifying the voices of youth leading transformative change in their communities and inspire others to take bold steps in promoting girls’ rights and gender equality.
The celebration began with an engaging panel discussion, featuring young people who have already made significant impacts as change-makers in their communities. These youth shared their stories of perseverance, passion and purpose, providing real-life examples of how young leaders can drive positive change. Their journeys ranged from initiatives to combat child marriages, efforts to promote girls’ education, to youth-led campaigns addressing menstrual health and hygiene. Each story resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the courage and boldness required to challenge societal norms and bring about meaningful change.
One of the panelists, Joan Kembabazi a youth leader and team leader from Gufasha Girls Foundation-Kayunga district, spoke passionately about her work advocating for girls’ education in rural communities. “It all starts with one small step,” she said. “I started with a few girls in my village, helping them access school supplies, and now we have a community project that reaches hundreds of girls across the district.” Her message to fellow youth was clear: anyone can be a leader and change begins with action, no matter how small.
The event also featured a keynote address by SP Innocent Agaba, a prominent police officer dedicated to promoting girls’ rights and ending gender-based violence. SP Agaba shared her personal career journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience and determination in breaking barriers. She recounted the challenges she faced as a woman in law enforcement and how she rose through the ranks to become a key figure in protecting girls and advocating for justice. In her address, SP Agaba also outlined the crucial role that the police force plays in safeguarding girls’ rights. She spoke on the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and communities to end gender violence, ensure the safety of girls and hold perpetrators accountable. “As police officers, our job is not only to enforce the law but to protect the most vulnerable members of society,” she noted. “We must work hand in hand with community leaders, educators and young people to create a safer environment for girls to thrive.” Her message was a powerful reminder of the importance of institutional support in addressing gender-based violence and ensuring justice for all.
The event created space for open dialogue between attendees, allowing young people in the room to ask questions and seek guidance from the speakers on how they too could become drivers of change. The interactive sessions encouraged active participation, with many young people expressing their desire to take on leadership roles in their schools, communities and organizations. The theme, “Young Leaders, Bold Voices,” was felt throughout the event, as the discussions highlighted the power of youth leadership and the importance of amplifying the voices of young people in decision-making spaces. Attendees left the event with renewed inspiration and a deeper understanding of the role they can play in shaping the future.
This event equipped participants with practical tools and knowledge to continue advocating for girls’ rights and to lead by example in their respective communities. Partners reaffirmed their commitment to supporting youth leadership and girls’ empowerment. The celebration not only honoured the progress made but also served as a call to action for young leaders to continue raising their voices boldly and fearlessly. The post International Day of the Girl Child event was a reminder that when young people unite for a common cause, they can create powerful change. This left a lasting impact on all who attended, and it underscored the vital role of young leaders in shaping a future where girls’ rights are fully realized and gender equality is achieved.
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