In a groundbreaking initiative, Chapter Four Programs & Projects, under the visionary leadership of Director Ms. Njeri Kabeberi, orchestrated an intensive web training program focused on purpose-driven leadership for 20 exceptional women journalists hailing from four African nations: Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Senegal.
The transformative event, which took place in October 2020, brought together these talented journalists for a 8 week-long immersive experience that not only honed their digital skills but also empowered them to become catalysts for change in their respective countries.
Empowering Voices, Changing Narratives
Ms. Kabeberi, a renowned advocate for women’s empowerment in journalism, emphasized the importance of the training: “In today’s digital age, it’s crucial for women journalists to harness the power of the web to amplify their voices and bring about positive change in their communities. This training is not just about technical skills; it’s about nurturing purpose-driven leaders who will shape the future of African journalism.”
Voices of Change: Participant Testimonials
“I have been given the title: best female investigative journalist in Zimbabwe, but this training has opened my eyes to the need for personal – development, it has unearthed my long-term personal desire to obtain a masters degree, and I now feel empowered to pursue my masters and maintain my career advancement through my newly improved time managing skills.” – Bridget Mananavire, Zimbabwe
”Purpose Driven leadership has birthed a drive in me to address gender disparity in media representation and empower the women’s voice through better representation in journalism I now feel equipped to empower other women to rise and tell stories that matter, stories that can give a balanced view of Zimbabwe. Martha Mamombe, Zimbabwe.
“As a Kenyan journalist, I’ve always dreamed of connecting with peers across Africa. This experience has not only enhanced my skills but also built a network of powerful women committed to excellence in journalism.” – Roselyne Obala, Kenya
“ Because of this training, I have been inspired to set a target, to have mentored 50 journalists by next year, I have come out of this training with increased self-awareness and already developed a 10 year plan for my journalism journey” – Judie Kaberia, Kenya.
“This training has helped me to re-analyse my journalism career, and from my journey brought out a strategy to break, traditions and beliefs that have hindered women in media, I plan to implement this strategy to bring the necessary, positive change to the journalism community in Tanzania.” – Salome Kitomari, Tanzania
“The focus on purpose-driven leadership has transformed my approach to reporting. I now define myself as a change maker who uses various mediums such as media, politics, community development, and entrepreneurship.” Kingwa Kamencu, Kenya
“After this I see my new role as changing Africa’s Narrative by pushing for more women owned Media Houses; which will be more inclusive, fashion better working environments, give power to the women’s voice in the region and on the continent as a whole.” – Ndeye Khady Lo, Senegal
A Ripple Effect of Change
The impact of this training extends far beyond the individual participants. As these 20 women return to their newsrooms and communities, they carry with them not just new skills, but a renewed sense of purpose self appreciation and a powerful network of like-minded professionals.
Ms. Njeri Kabeberi concluded the event with a powerful statement: “Today, we’ve not just trained journalists; we’ve ignited a movement. These women will go on to mentor others, challenge stereotypes, and bring fresh, diverse perspectives to the forefront of African journalism, the WOMEN VOICE shall be heard.”
As the sun set on this transformative 8 weeks, it was clear that the rays of change were just beginning to shine across the African media landscape. The 20 women journalists, armed with new skills, a powerful network, and an unwavering sense of purpose, are now poised to lead the charge in shaping a new era of African journalism.
