Ebaide
What does life as a woman or girl look like in your part of the world? What roles do women play in your society?
The life of a woman in my part of the world is stereotypical. The society culturally stifles the woman and docks her in a box where she is deemed to be beneath the man. Not until the early 2000, did women began to take on leadership roles that were considered for men only.
Today, the percentage of women in significant roles is still below 30 percent. Gradually, there is a paradigm shift that now beckons women to rise and disrupt the narrative and we are steadily making our voices heard.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to women empowerment and/or gender equality today?
The cultural patriarchal orientation is a major barrier. Most men are bred along this line and can never find a woman worthy of leading them. Some perceive it as a taboo to be led by a woman. Also, the laws are not favorable towards woman. There’s no law that dictates a 50/50 equality between both gender. Harmful cultural practices have stifled the empowerment of women and have continuously tossed the woman as a second class citizen with no legal remedy to it.
OK, tell us all about yourself. Who are YOU & what should the world know about you?
I have come to understand that greatness is not tossed on our laps for grabs, it entails some conscious effort to attain it. I see myself as a disruptive leader, who’s out to change the narrative. I am an enthusiastic young woman who’s passionate about causing positive change through worthy endeavors.
I’ll like the world to know me as a leader, a leader who’s passion driven and who’s resolute in changing the narrative. I’m a born humanitarian who is willing to give her quota towards nation building and youth development.
Describe yourself in one word: "I am... Disruptive!
What are you most passionate about and what are you doing with that passion? I am most passionate about humanity, teaching and breeding positive leaders. I have organized foras where I teach young people on leadership, entrepreneurship and public speaking. I have also organized foras in furtherance of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. I currently volunteer as a teacher in an internally displaced home. I am also a volunteer in a sickle cell foundation and I am currently the Regional Coordinator of the foundation.
What are some of the most notable events (milestones) that have happened in your life to date?
The major milestones for me will be the creation of a legal aid office during my compulsory national youth service year. Also, the organization of the first National Sickle Cell Summit and, just recently, the organization of a peace summit in line with Goal 16 of the SDGs 2030.
What obstacles have you faced and overcome?
The major obstacle has always been funds and one major way I have been able to overcome is through viable partnerships and involving a pool of volunteers who are resolute about giving back.
Looking externally into the public sphere, what female public figure inspires you the most to achieve your dreams & why?
In the public sphere, I’ll say Michele Obama inspires me because in her I see a woman who’s resolute , passionate and whose leadership skills are not in doubt. She sort of reminds me of what I want to become and more. She is indeed a beacon of hope and exudes positivity.
What's your definition of success?
Success for me, is seeing the world better and more prosperous. Success for me, is making viable impact and causing positive change. Success for me, is extending kindness to my neighbor through action.
How have the women and girls around you helped you to get to where you are today?
The women around me have helped me in great measures. They have instilled in me a purposeful character and a resourceful mindset.
Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today, is to be..." positively ambitious, determined and resolute towards our goals.