Rich’s session was another reminder that change is achieved through taking small intentional steps. It is important to place more focus and efforts on community empowerment, and put politics aside. If we put the community at the heart of our efforts, and create a space where people feel heard, valued and supported, the most vulnerable groups of our communities will be more empowered, their voices will be amplified.
Transformation requires for us to sit down with people, listen to their lived experiences, and work alongside them. It is also important to find like minded leaders who share the same values and are committed to the same course. This stresses the fact that collective effort brings greater change than individual effort.
Overall, the key takeaway is to value people’s stories and incorporate those lived experiences in strategic decision making.
Manehella Lesaoana (Lesotho)
NextGen Women Leaders Fellow 2025