Educate a Girl, Educate a Nation - Sierra Leone

Education is more than just a path to employment—it’s a gateway to transformation, especially for girls in underserved communities. Thanks to your continued support, girls like Zara (Alias - not real name) are not only gaining access to higher education but also discovering their voices, passions, and power to create change. Zara’s story is a compelling reminder of the ripple effect your generosity creates. From overcoming personal trauma to mentoring other young girls, she is redefining what’s possible for women in Sierra Leone—one bold step at a time.

Choosing a course to study at university was a challenging decision for me. It felt like choosing a life partner—one that would shape my future and determine the life I would lead. This marked the first step in my journey toward independence. Like many students transitioning from high school, I struggled with selecting the right field of study. It required determination, boldness, and hard work.

At the age of 18, I enrolled at Fourah Bay College, one of the most prestigious universities in Sierra Leone. It was an exciting milestone—finally stepping into the "Citadel of Hope." However, my time there was filled with both challenges and triumphs, making it a bittersweet experience.

The Importance of Gender Development Studies
Gender Development Studies is a field dedicated to understanding and addressing societal gender dynamics. It critically examines how gender norms shape individual behavior, societal expectations, policymaking, education, and activism. More importantly, it challenges deep-rooted biases and stereotypes, advocating for a more equitable world.

This discipline plays a vital role in education by questioning traditional curricula and pedagogies that reinforce gender stereotypes. By integrating gender perspectives into teaching and learning, educators can foster critical thinking and creativity, encouraging students to challenge biases. Additionally, gender studies influence art, literature, and media, promoting the representation of diverse gender identities and experiences.

Another significant contribution of gender studies is its emphasis on intersectionality—highlighting how gender intersects with race, class, sexuality, and disability, further compounding societal inequalities.

A Personal Mission for Gender Equity
Growing up in a low-income household, I witnessed firsthand how poverty and gender bias limited opportunities for women and girls. Many were denied access to quality education, decent jobs, healthcare, and financial independence. These experiences fueled my passion for advocacy and social change.

One of my biggest inspirations for studying Gender Development Studies was my mother. As a young girl, she was deprived of the chance to pursue her education simply because of her gender. Her dreams were shattered due to harmful stereotypes, and despite her intelligence and potential, she never had the opportunity to become the advocate and leader she could have been. If given the chance, she could have been in Parliament, fighting for women's rights and against gender-based violence (GBV) and harmful traditional practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Her story became my motivation—I vowed to break that cycle and advocate for women's and children's rights. I wanted to be a catalyst for change, ensuring that no girl would be denied opportunities based on outdated societal norms.

Overcoming Gender-Based Violence
Unfortunately, my commitment to gender advocacy is also shaped by personal experience. I was a victim of gender-based violence (GBV) at a young age by a close relative. The stigma and victim-blaming culture made it difficult for me to speak up. It took years of therapy to heal from the trauma.

My experience made me realize that many victims, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, do not have access to psychological support. Some are forced into silence, leading to devastating consequences such as suicide, prostitution, school dropouts, and continued cycles of abuse. Studying Gender Development Studies empowered me to break my silence. Now, I use my voice to advocate for GBV victims, working to prevent and reduce its prevalence.

Breaking Barriers for Women in Society
Many women have the potential to contribute significantly to society’s development, but harmful cultural beliefs continue to push them to the background. This marginalization has had negative economic consequences, particularly in Africa. When only men are expected to be the primary providers, the burden becomes overwhelming, contributing to higher male mortality rates and economic instability.

Empowering women is not just a women’s issue—it benefits entire societies. Women with equal opportunities can support their households, reduce poverty, and drive national progress.

My Role in Empowering Young Girls
Studying Gender Development Studies has transformed me into a confident, outspoken advocate against gender-based discrimination and inequality. It has also allowed me to take an active role in community development.

I mentor young girls, encouraging them to focus on education and develop practical skills such as pastry making and recycling plastic waste into economically viable products. By equipping them with skills and knowledge, I hope to reduce their vulnerability to GBV and financial dependence, giving them the means to shape their own futures.

Conclusion
My decision to pursue Gender Development Studies has been one of the most rewarding choices of my life. It has equipped me with the tools to challenge the status quo, amplify marginalized voices, and contribute to a more just and equitable world.

This is not just an academic pursuit for me—it is a lifelong commitment. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or policy influence, I am dedicated to creating a future where gender does not determine one’s opportunities or rights.

My journey has just begun, and I am determined to be a force for change in my society.

Zara’s journey is just one of many that your donations are helping to shape. Because of you, she is not only thriving in her studies but also leading the charge for gender equality and empowerment in her community. Your support is building a future where every girl can dream freely, speak boldly, and rise with confidence. Thank you for standing with us—and with girls like Zara—as we continue to break down barriers and build a more just and inclusive world.

Warm regards,
Amy and the Develop Africa Team
GlobalGiving@developafrica.org

Links:

• Educate Girls to become Empowered Women