The definition of empowered women

There’s something remarkable about walking into a room filled with women especially when it’s a room that keeps filling up, each new arrival adding to the collective energy. Normally, the idea of being in such a space would make me anxious, perhaps even a bit uneasy. But on the first night of the onboarding program, I felt something different. Despite the late hour and my thoughts wandering towards dinner, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of curiosity and nervous anticipation. Eight days with a group of women… I couldn’t help but wonder what was in store.

As the room buzzed with quiet energy, I found comfort in a familiar face, and soon enough, my natural inclination to connect had me introducing myself to others. The women from the South were an intriguing bunch quiet yet filled with a palpable energy. The atmosphere was nothing short of a reunion, despite many of us being strangers just moments before.

As the room buzzed with quiet energy, I found comfort in a familiar face, and soon enough, my natural inclination to connect had me introducing myself to others. The women from the South were an intriguing bunch quiet yet filled with a palpable energy. The atmosphere was nothing short of a reunion, despite many of us being strangers just moments before.

There’s a common belief that women can’t collaborate without friction, that too many women in one space inevitably leads to conflict. It’s a narrative I’ve heard countless times and perhaps even believed until I experienced the Women of the South Speak Out. The energy in that room, the sense of coordination, and the genuine warmth defied every stereotype. These women didn’t just coexist; they thrived together, supporting one another with a strength that was both quiet and undeniable.

What struck me most was the lack of hierarchy. The Women of the South Speak Out and the Gender Links team operated as one cohesive unit. There was no sense of one group overshadowing the other; instead, there was a shared responsibility to make the onboarding program a success for everyone involved. The bond that formed over those eight days was something magical a unity that went beyond words.

As we shared our goodbyes and penned love letters to one another, I realized that we had not only learned from each other but had also built a collaboration that was rare and beautiful. The experience was a testament to the power of women coming together, breaking down preconceived notions, and proving that when women unite, incredible things happen.

By Loveness Mudzuru, WOSSO Fellow