Empowering girls and young women is more than just a commendable initiative,it is an essential step towards a more equitable and prosperous society.
Kenya’s economic blueprint Vision 2030 envisions a society where there is equity in power and resource distribution between the sexes, improved livelihoods for all vulnerable groups, and responsible, globally competitive and prosperous youth.
Polycom Girls organized an annual assembly on 30 August bringing together girls and young women (GYW) to celebrate achievements, monitor progress, plan future phases, and elect a GYW Representative to the Country Network.
Why Polycom Girls’ and Young Women (GYW) Empowerment Program Is Important;
- Provides equitable access to opportunities
- Fosters their participation in all spheres of life
- Enhances cross-learning within the feminist space
- Promotes democracy and leadership
- Celebrates their achievements while planning future initiatives.
The Sustainable Development Goal 5 targets to eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres,including trafficking,sexual and other forms of exploitation.
Jane Anyango,founder of Polycom Girls formerly Polycom Development Project said that, ‘through empowerment, girls and young women are able to learn from them as pioneers and easily handle challenges along the way.’
Sumba Njeri admitted to have improved her advocacy skills through the She Leads project that amplifies voices of girls and young women at Polycom.
‘She Leads consortium is an effective project that has made an impact in my life,’added Sumba.
‘Informal settlements should not define an individual,’said Lavenda Akinyi who is also part of Polycom Girls.
Mildred Ngesa an inspirational facilitator said that her purpose is to speak life and inspire the girls and young women to soldier up.
‘The older generation should not give up on the younger generation,rather they should mentor them,’added Ngesa.
She further alluded to the fact that girls and young women are inspired to learn and to understand.
Mildred applauded Polycom Girls for doing an amazing job of bridging the gap between the old and the young as they are inspired and strengthened.
The event was held at Rowallan Camp bringing together girls and young women to celebrate their achievements while planning for future initiatives.
