Kenyan gender advocate Vivian Onano, who is the global youth ambassador for WaterAid, chats about the importance of empowering women and children. Vivian is also the winner of the 2016 MAMAs Africa Re-imagined award.
By Fundiswa Nkwanyana Image Marianne Schwankhart
I believe in the education and liberation of women and children across the globe. Women experience many challenges in society and in the workplace. Children also find it difficult to flourish in today’s chaotic world. We need to share knowledge and information that redefines gender roles. This will promote cohesive existence in diversified communities. Because of this, I have made it my personal mission to be part of the revolution in the liberation of women and children.
I’m excited to be one of the speakers at the upcoming Liberty Life VUKA Knowledge Summit. With the theme Awaken Your Curiosity, this touches my heart as I understand the importance of having your curiosity stimulated. The difference between any other kid in my village in rural Kenya and I is that someone provided me with access to knowledge, information and education, which changed my life. So, I will talk about the importance of redefining gender roles.
Gender equality is still a feared topic in Africa. This is partly because the society is male-dominated, and it’s not an easy conversation to have. Lately, I have tried to personalise the need to achieve gender equality with my male friends and youth leaders. That way, I drive the message home faster. It is important to continue having open conversations on why achieving gender equality is good for business, economies, political stability and the overall cohesive existence of communities. I see more and more young people interested in advocating for gender equality, and more business leaders are making it a priority, too.
My advice to young people is that the world owes you nothing. You need to go out into the world and chart your own path. You must remember you’re your journey is unique, with different opportunities and challenges. I believe it’s important to go at your own pace and enjoy the journey by making every second count.
The Liberty Life VUKA Knowledge Summit will be held at the Sandton Convention Centre on the 1 and 2 November 2017.
