The SheArose Summit 2024, a significant gathering focused on women's empowerment across Africa, took place on 2nd October at the Brookfield Hotel in Freetown. Themed "Salone Woman Push," the summit brought together women from diverse fields to share personal stories of resilience, offer mutual support and inspire each other to overcome challenges and reach new heights.
The summit featured storytelling, networking sessions, poetry, cultural performances, and panel discussions. Dr. Kadijatu Grace Kamara, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, hosted the event and delivered a powerful keynote. "Salone Woman Push," she said, "is a movement where African women no longer step back but propel forward. Every woman in Sierra Leone and beyond is encouraged to see herself as a champion, supporting and empowering others."
In her address, Dr Kamara expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Bio for his dedication to women’s empowerment and urged women to realise their full potential. She inspired the audience by saying, “Success is not how high you climb, but how boldly you rise after each fall. Persist with purpose, and greatness will follow.”
Among the prominent women in attendance were Madam Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs; Dr. Josephine Kamara, Director General of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC); H.E. Angie K.N.L. Von Ballmoos, Liberian Ambassador to Sierra Leone; Queen Cynthia Mzilikazi II from South Africa; and other influential figures. These women shared personal stories of resilience and determination, encouraging others to push through adversity to reach leadership positions.
Queen Cynthia Mzilikazi II addressed the audience, urging women to support, embrace, and inspire each other across the continent. She commended Dr. Kamara for her leadership in hosting the SheArose Summit and expressed hope that African women would continue to build one another up as allies.
The event included a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Ambassador Melrose Tamuke, where panellists such as Madam Isatu Kabba, Dr Jelikatu Mustapha, and Hon. Baindu Dasama explored women's challenges and proposed solutions.
Cultural performances by Marie V and Amin Kallon’s teams, poetry recitations, and music by Dr. Kamara’s daughters highlighted the summit’s celebration of African culture. A special candle-lighting ceremony was held to honour women’s shared experiences and unity in pursuit of success. Attendees also received gifts, symbolising the solidarity fostered through the summit.
The launch of two books added a literary dimension to the event: "She Arose," authored by Dr. Kadijatu Grace Kamara, and "The Broken Strong Woman" by Dr. Christin Denis.
Joel F. Dumbuya
SLENA Correspondent
088296929 or 075211750.
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