On October 3rd, Mawazo proudly celebrated the graduation of all 40 of our 2023 Mawazo Fellows from the Mawazo Fellowship Programme!

In a ceremony that was both emotional and deeply inspiring, we gathered with our 40 Fellows from 16 different countries. The event brought together their loved ones, the entire Mawazo team, our partners, and many supporters who believe in the power of African women researchers to drive lasting change for Africa and beyond. Together, we applauded the remarkable efforts of these phenomenal researchers.

The occasion was unabashedly celebratory and supportive, highlighted by the insights of our phenomenal powerhouse feminist speakers, beginning with Professor Myriam Sidibé, Founder of Brands on a Mission. Professor Sidibé quickly instilled a sense of purpose in the Fellows, stating, “Research findings are not just supposed to sit on a page; they should create real, lasting change.” While emphasising the significance of their work, which each Fellow has committed their research careers to, she offered transformative wisdom: “Your research is important, your voice matters, and resilience will see you through. However, don’t let resilience define you.” In a world where societal expectations can hinder women from completing their PhDs, her words transcended mere reassurance from an experienced senior; they resonated as a powerful feminist declaration that challenged the patriarchal norms prevalent in academia.

Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi, the Executive Director of the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), shared a significant challenge with the Fellows during her address. “There are so few of us African researchers; we can’t just be unicorns,” she asserted. Dr. Kyobutungi emphasised that it is the responsibility of African women researchers to embrace their unique roles and strive for greater achievements. She encouraged the Fellows to ground themselves in their own identities and remain steadfast when faced with individuals who may perceive them differently. She urged them to proudly continue wearing the many hats they hold in their professional and personal lives. Dr. Kyobutungi’s career biography, along with her perspective on the obstacles she has encountered as learning opportunities, served as a profound source of inspiration for our Fellows. It instilled in them a belief in their own potential and encouraged them to seize opportunities as they arise.

Finally, feminist activist Hope Chigudu emphasised the capabilities of the Fellows and encouraged them to view their careers as a series of opportunities to navigate. “When you find yourself in a challenging situation, focus on the opportunities that arise from it,” she stated. Hope highlighted the importance of being part of a community of women who are transforming their fields and, consequently, their world. She urged our Fellows to just keep going but to ensure that they are looking after themselves - especially their bodies as it is the vehicle through which they will spark change.

The session was profoundly impacted by the power of the words shared and the genuine care that the speakers demonstrated for the Fellows. It was hard to believe that this was an online event. Through the computer screens, a sense of true community and sisterhood was formed. This camaraderie perfectly set the stage for the Fellows to transition into Mawazo’s Connects network, while also allowing Mawazo to announce exciting news at the conclusion of the ceremony:

The Call for Applications for the 2025 Fellowship Programme is NOW OPEN!