The 2nd Edition of the IMARA Girls Festival is Here!

The Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) and Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU) are excited to announce the 2nd edition of the IMARA Girls Festival. This annual event, a celebration of young women’s voices, innovation, and creativity, is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Kati Kati Grounds, Kampala.

This vibrant festival, commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child with the theme “Invest In Her, Unleash Her Potential,” brings together key actors from various sectors to celebrate, recognize, and inspire. It showcases the achievements of women and girls, highlighting their role in breaking boundaries and challenging stereotypes, while also proposing actionable solutions to socio-economic issues at different societal levels.

The IMARA Girls Festival also seeks to raise awareness and funds to support the establishment of the IMARA Women’s Centre (IWC), an initiative by FOWODE to anchor the advancement of women’s rights in Uganda. The IWC will serve as a hub for women’s and girl’s independent organizing and a practical base to advance the struggle for gender equality. It will offer a space for reflection, learning, networking, nurturing, healing, and self-care, while promoting women’s creativity and innovation.

We firmly believe that investing in the potential of girls is an investment in the future of our communities. Through our feminist work, we are committed to investing in girls’ leadership and supporting efforts to keep them in school. Recognizing that girls are often at risk of gender-based violence, the Centre will be dedicated to addressing these issues and promoting overall wellness. Furthermore, the Centre believes in fostering girls’ innovation and participation in STEM, reinforcing its commitment to providing incubation hubs and facilities to support these endeavors.

On the 12th October 2024, we will have a fun filled day that will include the following activities.
• Conversational Engagements: Under the theme “Invest in Her, Unleash Her Potential,” attendees will gain insights from seasoned leaders, mentors, and role models on the unique challenges young girls experience and offer practical solutions. These distinguished speakers will share their experiences and wisdom to inspire girls to dream big and pursue their goals.
• Peer Learning Sessions: Participants will engage in workshops led by inspiring youth leaders (peer educators) on various relevant topics like Gender-Based Violence, Menstrual Hygiene Management and restrictive gender norms. The sessions will have interactive discussions of strategies to address the challenges involved.
• Exhibitions: The event will feature unique products from local small and mid-sized companies, as well as services from civil society organizations, private sector actors, and industries such as health, banking, and entrepreneurship.
• Live Performances: We shall enjoy exciting performances by Ugandan renowned artists.

FOWODE and RAHU are committed to the empowerment of all women and girls and the achievement of gender equality. We encourage families, friends, and community members of all ages to attend this event and support us as we work towards an equal future.

We extend a warm invitation to young women and girls, policy actors, development partners, civil society, and individuals working towards an equal future for young women and girls to join us for a day filled with fun activities, live entertainment, and a shared commitment to supporting the aspirations of girls and young women.

The Imara Girls Festival is a free event. Proceeds from sponsorships, exhibition fees, and donations will make a significant contribution towards the establishment of the Imara Women’s Centre in Kasangati.

Join us in celebrating the potential and achievements of young women and girls at the Imara Girls Festival.

Together, we can contribute towards a safe and empowering space for women’s safety, dignity, voice, and agency.

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