SMART’s “Voices and Vision for Young Girls” Workshop Inspires Kumba’s Next Generation of girls

Simon Kalla
May 27
3 min read

The Social and Medical Alliance for Transformation (SMART) has taken a significant step in shaping the future of young girls in Kumba, organizing a transformative workshop under the theme “Voices and Vision for Young Girls” at Kake 1 Bongwana.

The one-day event brought together at least 250 selected girls from across Kumba, with the goal of helping them become positive contributors to society and steering them away from negative influences.

In her keynote address, Mme Frqncisca Zemenjoh, representing the founder Dr Irue Malingo Namata Elangwe, emphasized that the workshop’s vision is rooted in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goals 1 and 5 ; No Poverty, aiming to end poverty in all its forms everywhere, recognizing the empowering young girls through education, life skills, and opportunities, which is a crucial pathway out of poverty.

Gender Equality that seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, ensuring they have equal opportunities to participate fully in society.

She highlighted that their mission is inspired by “a deep love for transforming young girls”. Dr Malingo dedicated the event to her late parents, Chief Henry Nanata Elangwe and Mama Martha Namata Elangwe who believed in growth and the right by all girls to be educated and excel while acknowledging their enduring influence on empowerment of their people.

The workshop featured a vibrant mix of music, practical sessions, and interactive presentations by accomplished women leaders spelling out the importance and long-term benefits of empowering young girls through such a workshop.

Dr Mrs Bertha Ndoh delivered insights on becoming an effective girl leader and overcoming obstacles to leadership. Meanwhile, Madam Stella Mbonteh provided hands-on lessons in communication and conflict resolution, vital skills for personal and community harmony.

Madam Celice Kandjo on her part encouraged girls to discover their purpose and explore their unique passions during her presentation.

The turn of Dr Dora Makia was capital. She discussed self-care and menstrual hygiene, breaking taboos and promoting health awareness.

This presentation was fashioned with key demonstrations which ended up with the award of 200 registered girls with mentrual hygiene kids. Mme Marian guided the girls on setting boundaries and resisting peer pressure, equipping them to make positive life choices.

The event also included a question-and-answer session, allowing participants to engage directly with the facilitators, clarify doubts, and share personal experiences, concluding in a festive atmosphere, with participants expressing gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.

One young attendee told KNews she was deeply satisfied and promised to take the advice and lessons more seriously than before.

Dr Mrs Ndoh Bertha, one of the organisers and facilitator reflecting on the event, noted, “The objective was met, thanks to the collective effort of all.” Her sentiments were echoed by Madam Stella Mbonteh, who emphasized the importance of such initiatives in shaping the future of young girls.

BRIEF ABOUT THE FOUNDER

DR ILUE MALINGO NAMATA ELANGWE, is holder of BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) and MPH (Master’s in public health) and a doctorate degree in public health with over 2 decades of combined experience in healthcare, administration, research and philanthropy.

BY INNOCENT YUH

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