SRHIN AFRICA Website
News
20 June 2024
Dissemination Conference: A Celebration of Women's Leadership
Themed “Women in Leadership: Fuelling the Voices of Change for Collective Action,” the conference brought together a diverse group of stakeholders. Community leaders, women leaders, and members from the SIMBIHealth project, media representatives from Newstar International and Nasarawa Eye, and prominent figures like the CEO of Mbegir Humanitarian Cancer Initiative, Executive Directors of Source of Hope Foundation and Girls Up Initiative, and the Deputy Director of Nasarawa State University’s Center for Gender Studies all participated in the event.
Following registration, our Project Lead and Country Coordinator, Miracle Adesina, opened the conference with a warm welcome address. He provided a comprehensive overview of the SIMBIHealth project, outlining the initial challenges faced by the communities and how the project empowered women to advocate for change. Case studies from three communities brought the project’s impact to life, showcasing the successful advocacy efforts led by women.
A captivating video presentation further illuminated the project’s activities and achievements, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The conference then transitioned to powerful testimonials from various stakeholders. Community Supervisors from Toto and Ugya, along with Women Leaders from Gwargwada, Kuru, and Chiji, shared their experiences and the positive transformations witnessed in their communities due to the project.
A representative from Shafa Kwotto village head bolstered the project’s significance with a heartfelt goodwill message. Dr. Comfort Adokwe, the esteemed Deputy Director of the Center for Gender Studies at Nasarawa State University, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address. She emphasized the crucial role of education in empowering girls and women, highlighting the barriers that often prevent them from participating in advocacy and leadership roles within the political and decision-making spheres.
Another impactful video spotlight showcasing the project’s lasting impact was followed by a vibrant cultural performance by traditional dancers from the Kuru community. The energy of the performance resonated with the audience, leaving a lasting impression.
Panel Discussion: Amplifying Voices for Collective Action
Following this, we proceeded with a Panel Discussion titled “Women in Leadership: Amplifying Voices for Collective Action,” a vibrant highlight of the conference. The esteemed panel included the CEO of Mbegir Humanitarian Cancer Initiative, Executive Directors from Source of Hope Foundation and Girls Up Initiative, a representative from Nasarawa Eye, and a dedicated midwife and community volunteer from Gwargwada.
The insightful discussion centered on the roles of different stakeholders in advancing women-led advocacy efforts within the healthcare sector. Panelists explored strategies aimed at ensuring sustained success for initiatives such as the SIMBIHealth Community Advocacy Project, fostering enduring positive change in targeted communities.
Pledges and Recognition for a Brighter Future
Following the insightful panel discussion, a pledge session solidified the commitment of stakeholders to supporting the project’s long-term impact. Panelists and key figures made inspiring pledges to contribute their expertise and resources to sustain the project’s accomplishments.
Three outstanding women leaders and community volunteers were then presented with gifts in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the project’s success. Their dedication and leadership served as an inspiration to all present.
Our Global Program Officer, Mary Akinwola, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the attendees, stakeholders, and organizers who made the conference a resounding success. A well-deserved lunch break provided a space for further connection and networking amongst participants. The conference concluded with a group photo session, capturing the spirit of collaboration and the collective commitment to achieving better health outcomes through women’s leadership.
Our SIMBIHealth Community Advocacy Project and its successful dissemination conference mark a significant milestone for us at SRHIN and the target communities in Nasarawa State. The project empowers women to become agents of change, advocating for a healthier future for themselves and their communities.