As we mark International Women’s Day 2024, Impact Now is excited to announce a collaboration with the Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC): NYOTA Leadership Program—a women’s leadership program in the Beni region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) specifically designed to empower women in local leadership positions.
Why NYOTA? It is Swahili for star. Marc Asobee, Coordinator of the UCBC Leadership Faculty explains:
Stars shine in the night. When it’s dark, the brighter the light. DRC has been going through a dark season since independence in 1960, characterized by poor leadership, chronic violence, poverty, and systemic injustice. In this context, women have great leadership potential that needs to be developed and deployed for social transformation. The NYOTA Leadership Program will empower women leaders to discover, develop, and unleash their fullest potential, and shine like stars to bring hope to their families, organizations, and our country.
In fact, women in leadership at the local, regional, and national levels play pivotal roles in ensuring peace and gender equality and in strengthening education and health services.
Sifa Jolie Amisi, member of the NYOTA program planning team notes:
NYOTA also means “someone’s destiny, fame or ideal situation.” The graduates of this program are destined to actively practice their leadership skills and potential. This program will help them manifest their leadership despite the male-dominant context they are working in.
There is no better time to launch the NYOTA Leadership Program than now, as militias threaten regional security and displace civilians in Beni’s provincial capital, Goma. The need for resilient, ethical, and just leadership is more crucial than ever.
A unique and powerful aspect of Nyota Leadership Program is that the women leaders we plan to serve are participating in the program design. Because they are partnering with us, we can be certain that this program will provide the kind of education and support these leaders want and know they need.
In recognition of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we have set a goal to raise $2000 to kickstart the NYOTA Leadership Program. Please partner with us and make a gift today.
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Let’s celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of local women on International Women’s Day. Together, we can empower these leaders to drive positive change at the heart of their communities, creating a ripple effect to transform lives. Join us in making a difference today.