The Her Voice Africa Women Empowerment Summit officially opened today at the Technical University of Mombasa Assembly Hall, bringing together young women for a transformative four-day leadership and civic engagement program running from 22nd to 25th April.
The opening ceremony was presided over by the Dean of Students, Mr. Joel Awino, and graced by the Chief Guest, Hon. Jonathan Wepukhulu, CECM of the Department of Youth, Gender, Sports and Social Services – Mombasa County.
In his keynote address, Hon. Wepukhulu emphasized that empowering young women is central to building resilient communities. He noted that investing in education, skills development, and opportunities for young women uplifts not just individuals but entire societies.
Reflecting on the theme, “Empowered Within, Transforming Beyond, for Lasting Impact,” he stressed that empowerment must go hand in hand with protection, dignity, and justice, especially in light of recent cases of gender-based violence. He further highlighted county initiatives such as safe spaces at Tononoka Social Hall and a mental health support center at Majengo Market, alongside accessible toll-free support systems.
The Dean, representing the DVC Academic, Research and Extension, emphasized the power of the theme, noting that transformation begins internally, with confidence, self-awareness, and resilience, and grows into broader impact within communities and beyond.
The session also featured powerful insights from the founders of the initiative. Alima Nanyama challenged participants to confront internal barriers, sharing “12 habits that limit women” and encouraging intentional personal growth. Co-founder Pauline Magiri Mwangi, a fourth-year Medical Laboratory Sciences student at TUM, delivered a compelling message on purpose, reminding participants that “the destinies of so many people are attached to your purpose.”
Today’s focus, aligned with Day 1: “Knowing Self, Defining Purpose,” centered on self-awareness, identity exploration, and vision mapping, setting a strong personal foundation for the days ahead.
The session on self-awareness, identity exploration, and understanding purpose and personal calling was facilitated by Clarice Mwakazi, CEO of the Global Women Impact Foundation.
This was complemented by a session led by Caroline Mukomah Mbote, President of Tamarind Toastmasters Club and CEO of Eye on Etiquette, who spoke on Overcoming Limiting Beliefs & Building Confidence as well as Vision Mapping & Purpose Board Creation, helping participants translate self-awareness into clarity of vision and intentional personal growth.
The next three days of the program will focus on Leadership Development on Day 2, Political & Civic Participation on Day 3, and Mentorship & Action Planning on Day 4.
The initiative is supported by key partners including the Technical University of Mombasa Partnership, Research, and Innovation Office, led by Assistant Registrar, Muzny Muses, Kericho Gold, Mama Doing Good, the County Department of Youth, Toastmasters International, and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.
At its core, the program is designed to deliver lasting impact, equipping participants with self-awareness and clarity of purpose, strengthening leadership skills and confidence for civic and national engagement, and exposing them to practical entry points into political and governance spaces. It also fosters mentorship and meaningful networks while supporting each participant to develop actionable plans that connect their vision, leadership, and civic responsibility.
If you’re passionate about leadership, purpose, and making an impact, you can still join us for the remaining days of this transformative experience before it concludes on 25th April. Register here: https://forms.gle/3egT5ut5fantZEcN8
