Finding her voice

At 42 years old, Rose Gabriel from Majete 7, is experiencing a transformation she once believed was impossible. Married with four children, Rose had always been involved in her community, serving as a member of various village committees. Yet despite her involvement, she struggled with low self-esteem and lacked the confidence to speak up or accept leadership roles.

For years, Rose remained quiet in meetings, hesitant to share her thoughts. She doubted her abilities and felt that leadership belonged to others, not to her.

Everything began to change when The Hunger Project in Majete 7 facilitated the establishment of Village Economic and Savings Association (VESA) groups to promote saving, business development, and community learning. Rose joined her local VESA group with the goal of saving and borrowing money. She had no idea that it would also become the foundation for her personal growth and empowerment.

Through the VESA group, Rose and other members received visits from different animators who shared knowledge on agriculture, health, business investment, leadership, Vision, Commitment & Action, and more.

She shared: “Women Empowerment Program Animators were among the Animators who frequently visit our VESA group, sensitising us on women rights, women in leadership positions and the importance of women speaking up on issues that affect them. Seeing my fellow women and even girls stand up and take leadership roles and freely speak out on issues, started challenging me that I could do the same.”

Inspired by what she observed, Rose slowly began finding her voice. She started speaking during group discussions and engaging more confidently with others. This new confidence extended into her home as well, where she began effectively engaging her husband on important issues.

Her shift did not go unnoticed. Fellow women and community members began to recognise her growing confidence and leadership potential.

“I gradually started feeling more confident to speak in a group. I started even to effectively engage my husband on important issues at home. This change did not go unnoticed to my fellow women and members of my community,” she shared.

Today, Rose sees herself as a leader – something she once believed she could never become. A powerful example of this transformation is in her farmers’ club.

“I have seen myself transforming into a leader now. For instance, in a farmers’ club, which I have been attending for several years as a member, I have now been elected a chairperson, a position I could not dream of before.”

Rose’s journey shows the profound impact of women’s empowerment, confidence-building, and community support. What began as a simple decision to join a savings group has opened the door to leadership, influence, and a renewed belief in her own potential.