The event, held at the College of Business and Economics of the University of Rwanda in Gikondo, focused on leadership, gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights.
From the opening keynote, the message was unmistakable: "You are not chickens scratching in the dirt. You are eagles, born to soar, built to lead, and destined to return to your nest to lift others."
The message encouraged participants to take charge of their potential and make a difference in their communities.
Several young women stood out for their stories and achievements. Anderson Tuyizere, a project management student and GLF member, spoke about her commitment to gender justice: "I believe in women empowerment and all genders. I don't support any injustice whether it's a woman or a man." She has already started an Equality Circle at Kepler College to create space for dialogue and change.
Karine Usanase, from East Africa's first business analytics cohort at Kepler College, described gender equality as having access to opportunities without limits set by gender. Tafaul Wazil, also at Kepler, highlighted the importance of confidence: "What my brother can do, I can also do. What they can achieve, I can also achieve."
Gloria Nshutinziza, a law student at Mount Kigali University, shared her experience overcoming doubt from male classmates. Appointed class representative in her first week, she went on to become President of the School of Law, proving her leadership through action.
The Girls Leadership Forum was first launched in 2012 with support from the Graca Machel Trust and GLF-Rwanda. Over the years, it has provided mentorship, skills, and networks for young women across Africa.
In a world where the voices of young girls are often silenced, the Pan-African Adolescent Girls Movement stands as a beacon of empowerment, offering adolescent girls across Africa the tools to break through barriers and claim their rightful place as leaders of tomorrow.
With a vision to reshape Africa's future, the movement is set to inspire the next generation of visionary women who will drive positive change, challenge the status quo, and create lasting impact in their societies.
Hear from some of the leading voices in the video below.
Rania Umutoni
