We need to develop skills to act

The ability to speak out is one my major challenges to bring change within my community and I know this is applicable to most women and girls. This could be as a result of fear which comes in various ways. The fear of being able to face the audience and articulate the right words, the fear of being stigmatized or mocked when it comes to issue of HIV/AIDS infection, rape, abuse or other form of violence that women experience, the fear of being pointed at when people discovers that she has been abused, fear of disclosing HIV status or when her rights is violated. We think of shame and what people around may say when they hear the story.

One of the things I have learnt in the developement work is to develope the skills to speak for myself and make informed decisions. This was achieved through training on life building skills like assertiveness,goal setting, self esteem, critical thinking, effective communication, decision making, negotiation and other necessary skills that has shaped my life for better.

Women and girls needs to be empowered with these skills to overcome life's challenges and stand up for their basic human rights without violating someone else's rights. An adolescent girl needs to know how to say "NO" so as to prevent unwanted pregnancy, early marriage and exposure to HIV/AIDS. It also helps to deal with violence and abuse within their community. It equips them to take positive actions to protect themselves, promote health and positive social relationships. Adolescent girls should be placed at the centre of any form of development. Am not a guise or perfect but I believe this tool can make a difference in the life of many women and girls.

Before I joined pulse wire, I have always conceptualized this idea in mind without writing them down. Getting started and implementing have been difficult because of no motivation and getting a work mate.I need a team of like minds to reach a large number of girls within my community.

Being a part of pulse wire has made a difference.I have been motivated by the wonderful projects I find here. I have started my project to empower young girls with life skills using powerPoint presentation.I have learnt new things and met friends who are willing to give a heading hand to my goals. I need to reach out to many girls and as such, needs assistance to mobilize my effort.

Pulsewire and other online community can serve as a platform for exchange of ideas on a particularl issue. It exposes one to global opportunities and funding. It can also serve as a powerful forum to learn what others are doing in their community and be part of a project even from a distance. It serves as a motivating tool for those who are desiring/aspiring for change.