In Amokwe, a rural community in Udi Local Government, the Women’s Voice and Leadership (WVL) Project unveiled a landscape of untapped potential and hidden dreams. It became evident that the women in Amokwe were reticent and hesitant to voice their opinions, in a bold attempt to break this silence, I encouraged them to speak up during focus group discussions, and many lacked basic literacy skills, unable to even write their names properly. Shockingly, a man in the group attributed the women’s silence to illiteracy, painting a stark picture of their challenges, and in a bold attempt to break this silence, I encouraged them to speak up during focus group discussions.
Determined to make a difference, I committed to empowering these women, instilling confidence and knowledge through the Women Leadership Academy, designed to address this glaring issue. The curriculum, starting from the ABCs to the art of writing their names, transformed the women’s lives in an extraordinary way.
What were truly remarkable were the women’s unwavering eagerness to learn and their astonishing swiftness in doing so. Mrs. Aneke, who initially struggled to write her name, epitomized this remarkable transformation. Her unwavering eagerness to learn and her astonishing swiftness in grasping knowledge were truly inspiring. Motivated by the lessons she imbibed at the Academy, Mrs. Aneke surprised everyone by expressing her intention to contest for the Commissioner of Girls Guide in Enugu State. Her courage and determination stemmed from the unwavering support and empowerment she had received. Fearless by the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, Mrs. Aneke persisted, she continued to call for guidance and support, but she was not alone in this pursuit; a network of women rallied behind her.
In a remarkable turn of events, Mrs. Aneke emerged victorious, claiming the position of Commissioner of Girls Guide in Enugu State. Her achievement was celebrated as a monumental milestone, not just for herself but for the entire community. At her inauguration ceremony, Mrs. Aneke took the podium, expressing heartfelt gratitude to WEPBI, ActionAid, and Global Affairs Canada for making her journey possible. She acknowledged that without their support, she would never have had the opportunity to transform her life and become a prominent figure in society.
WEPBI, through the Women Leadership Academy, had not only imparted knowledge but had also instilled in Mrs. Aneke the values of boldness, fearlessness, and unwavering determination, enabling her to triumph against all odds and secure her well-deserved victory.
