What I Didn’t Know Before Becoming a FLAC Fellow

I was wrong.

This fellowship has been a journey of learning, growth, and self-discovery in ways I never expected. There are lessons I didn’t know I needed, lessons that have changed the way I see the world, and myself.

Intersectionality: Understanding the Layers of Experience

One session that stood out for me was on intersectionality. Before this, I thought feminism was a single, unified movement one set of struggles, one way of doing things. But intersectionality opened my eyes to the reality that people experience challenges differently depending on their identities, backgrounds, and life experiences.

I learned that activism cannot be one-size-fits-all. We must see, listen to, and amplify the voices of people whose realities are different from ours. Feminism is not just about gender; it’s about the complex ways that gender intersects with race, class, ability, and many other factors.

Ecofeminism: Seeing the Environment Through a Gender Lens

Another session that left a deep impact on me was ecofeminism. I had never considered how environmental issues and gender inequality are connected. I didn’t know that disasters like floods, droughts, or pollution often affect women and marginalized communities the most.

The timing of this lesson made it hit even harder around the same time, my hometown, Mthatha, experienced devastating floods in June. Seeing the real-world consequences of these inequalities made ecofeminism feel urgent, personal, and very real. I learned that environmental justice is human justice, and that the fight for gender equality cannot ignore the planet we live on.

Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

The fellowship also challenged me personally. Through public speaking, engaging with communities, and working with diverse stakeholders, I had to step out of my comfort zone.

I learned that growth often comes with discomfort hat finding your voice is not always easy, but it is necessary. I learned to trust myself, to speak up, and to engage meaningfully with people whose experiences differ from my own.

Sisterhood and Community

One of the most beautiful lessons has been about sisterhood. Working with young people in our communities, sharing ideas, and supporting one another has created bonds that are inspiring and motivating. This fellowship is not just about personal growth it’s about building a network of change-makers who can stand together, challenge injustices, and support each other along the way.

What I’ve Learned So Far

So far, I’ve learned that:

• Feminism is diverse and intersectional
• Climate issues are also gender issues
• Growth comes when you step out of your comfort zone
• Your voice matters even when it feels small
• Community and sisterhood make change possible

I came into the fellowship thinking I already knew the path to leadership and activism. What I didn’t know was how much I had to unlearn, listen, and grow to truly understand the world and my role in it.

And this is just the beginning.

By Asemahle Sigwinta, FLAC Fellow – Mthatha