My Reflection, My journey as FLAC Fellow

It has not only given me a platform to grow but also a responsibility to use my voice meaningfully in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), particularly for girls and young women in my community.

From the beginning of this journey, I learned that advocacy is not just about speaking it is about listening, documenting, and acting. Through my reporting work, I have developed a stronger understanding of how to capture community realities accurately and with sensitivity. Writing reports after dialogues and outreach activities has helped me sharpen my ability to identify key issues, highlight gaps in knowledge and services, and propose practical recommendations. I have come to understand that reporting is more than documentation; it is about preserving the lived experiences of young people whose voices are often excluded from decision-making spaces.

Mobilization has also played a key role in shaping my growth. Engaging young people and encouraging them to participate in community dialogues has strengthened my confidence as a leader. I have learned how to communicate in ways that are relatable, respectful, and inclusive. Building trust within communities has been essential in creating safe spaces where young people feel comfortable to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas. Even when faced with obstacles such as low attendance, hesitation from participants, or logistical challenges, I have learned to remain adaptable and persistent. These experiences have strengthened my resilience and commitment to ensuring that every activity is impactful and meaningful.

Facilitation has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Leading discussions on sensitive topics such as contraception, mental health, gender equality, and consent has strengthened my ability to guide conversations in an inclusive and respectful way. I have learned how to actively listen, manage different opinions, and ensure that every participant feels valued and heard. It has been inspiring to see young people challenge harmful myths, ask critical questions, and commit to sharing accurate information within their communities. These moments have reaffirmed the importance of creating spaces where dialogue leads to learning and empowerment.

Overall, my experience with My Age Africa has shaped me into a more confident, informed, and passionate feminist advocate. It has deepened my understanding of the real challenges faced by young people, especially girls and young women, and strengthened my commitment to promoting equity, access to information, and youth empowerment.

This journey has also taught me that advocacy is not a one-time effort but a continuous process of learning, unlearning, and acting. I am inspired to continue using my voice, skills, and platform to create positive change in my community and beyond. I remain committed to standing in solidarity with others, amplifying unheard voices, and contributing to a future where every young person can live with dignity, access, and opportunity.

This is only the beginning of my journey, and I am ready for what comes next.