By Rachel Ngumi

Recently, the Office of Gender Equity and Protection in collaboration with Women in Alternative Dispute Resolution (WADR) hosted a delightful high tea event to celebrate International Women's Day. Themed Women Indaba: "A Word to Your Younger Self," this gathering, named after the Zulu term for "important meeting", sought to address pressing issues in women’s empowerment and personal growth.

The event attracted a vibrant mix of USIU-Africa staff, students, faculty, and participants from other universities, creating a timely and impactful atmosphere. Opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Eunice Lumallas, Chair, Women in Alternative Dispute Resolution (WADR) and Dr. Victor Boiyo, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Student Life. Both speakers emphasized the importance of such events in providing platforms for women to share their voices and build connections.

The attendees were also treated to a special video message from Hon. Justice Joyce Aluoch, the Patron of Women in ADR, who extended warm wishes for International Women's Day and reflected on the event's significance.

The highlight of the event was an insightful panel discussion, where impressive line-up of leaders shared their personal journeys and offered advice to their younger selves. Panelists reflected on what they would tell their 20-year-old selves, sharing wisdom rooted in their experiences. Mr. John Ngumi, Executive Director at Eagles Africa Capital Partners Ltd and a financial expert, shared a poignant lesson from his journey. Despite studying at Oxford University, he wished he had attended an African university to build stronger local connections. He encouraged the audience to create networks uniquely and boldly, stating, “Your network is your net worth.” He also emphasized that failure is a vital part of growth, teaching resilience and the importance of taking risks.

Ms. Aminah Jasho, Head of Strategic Communication at Equal Measures and a USIU-Africa alumnus, spoke candidly about her experiences in the male-dominated field of journalism. She encouraged young women to carve out their own spaces, asserting, “If there is no space at the table, create your own.” Her words inspired the audience to take ownership of their journeys and break barriers.

The discussion also featured valuable insights from Lady Justice Jemimah Keli, who spoke about introspection, urging attendees to ask themselves three critical questions: Who am I? Where am I? Where am I going? Her advice highlighted the significance of self-awareness in shaping one’s future.

Hon. Gladys Boss Shollei, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, delivered a deeply resonant keynote address, sharing her journey in leadership and public service. Reflecting on her upbringing, she recounted how her strict parents shaped her values. She stressed the importance of listening to one’s parents, even amid peer pressure. Acknowledging the challenges faced by women in politics, she encouraged women to validate themselves and not seek external approval. “Don’t let your circumstances define you,” she urged, encouraging women to stand tall and advocate for themselves.

Her message also emphasized that not every challenge is a setback. “God puts you in spaces for a reason,” she explained, urging the audience to view obstacles as opportunities for growth. Hon. Shollei’s call to resilience and self-empowerment inspired women to embrace their unique journeys and strive for success against the odds.

As the event drew to a close, the panelists’ messages left a lasting impact. The discussions underscored the necessity for women to believe in themselves, take risks, and seek opportunities for growth. A recurring theme was the importance of volunteering, with several panelists noting how it can provide valuable experience and open doors to future career opportunities.

The Women Indaba served as a powerful reminder of the need for safe spaces where women can share their stories, challenges, and successes. Celebrating International Women’s Day, it became clear that events like this are essential, not just for marking the occasion, but for building lasting networks of support and mentorship that uplift women across all fields.