Natasha
What does life as a woman or girl look like in your part of the world? What roles do women play in your society?
A woman in my part of the world is expected to be a lot of things; a wife, a mother, a teacher. She's expected to be obedient and to adhere to traditions, she's not expected to question them.
A woman in my part of the world is also pursuing her education and need for independence. Women in my society are wives, mothers, sisters, changemakers, lawmakers, doctors, lawyers, farmers. They are constantly rising above what is expected of them.
What do you think is the most significant barrier to women empowerment and/or gender equality today?
I would say tradition plays a significant barrier to women empowerment. Like most African countries, most tradition here does not favor the woman.
OK, tell us all about yourself. Who are YOU & what should the world know about you?
My name is Natasha, which means 'thank you' in Bemba, my native tongue. I was raised on a sugarcane plantation in Mazabuka, a town in Southern Zambia and later moved to the capital city to pursue an Accounting qualification (which I loathed). As a creative, my passions lay elsewhere.
That said, I am a story teller, writer and author, a public speaker and communicator, and also a youth mentor. I am passionate about young people and love to create programs with local and international organizations that will help young people, especially girls, to pursue their dreams.
Describe yourself in one word: "I am... Dynamite!
What are you most passionate about and what are you doing with that passion?
Literature and young people are what I'm most passionate about. I am a published author of short stories. I also had a radio show called The Book Factory which showcased Zambian authors, their works and writing tips. I also offer consultancy to upcoming writers. My passion for young people has led me to work with a number of organizations, aiding them to create content for young people, teach classes and even speak. I continue to do this.
What are some of the most notable events (milestones) that have happened in your life to date?
I graduated with my Bachelor's Degree in Theology and Organizational Leadership at age 30.
Successfully leading, developing content and coordinating the Twin Palm Leadership University’s academic boot camp program.
Seeing some of the young people I've helped mentor excel in their academics.
Having my baby!
What obstacles have you faced and overcome?
As an introvert who would rather stay indoors and read a book, the fear of public speaking and leading has been a challenge I've had to overcome. Fortunately, practice, mentorship, learning, and constantly pushing myself has helped.
Looking externally into the public sphere, what female public figure inspires you the most to achieve your dreams & why?
Michelle Obama inspires me to be more. She is so many things, A wife and former first lady, an amazing mother, an award-winning writer, speaker, philanthropist, etc. She is an excellent example that a woman, especially a black woman, can be more than just be one type of woman. Her life tells mine that I can do life well and excellently; that dreams can be pursued and lives changed because I chose to dream, pursue and conquer.
What's your definition of success?
Success to me is being in tune with your purpose, your assignment and your truth. It is knowing who you are and why you are here.
How have the women and girls around you helped you to get to where you are today?
My mother is a strong woman who pushed me and continues to push me to be everything she knows I should be. She is a force in my life who helps me see myself even when I can't. As a woman who didn't have the opportunity to finish school, she has helped me realize the importance of education.
My first grade teacher was also an amazing woman who made me see the power of a woman who follows her dreams. She made me realize that even little girls could dream.
Complete this sentence: "To be a girl or woman today, is to be..."
To be a girl or woman today, is to be powerful and able to be anything you want to be.