16/12/2024
By our humble Executive Director and Founder of Girls Aid Movement.
My official Visit to the White House
Standing where leaders have stood before me🏛🇺🇸
l stood outside the gates of the White House, my heart pounding with excitement and disbelief. I, a young woman from Sierra Leone🇸🇱, was honored with an official invite to attend a meeting focused on empowering women in Africa through technology. This was a dream I once had imagined. I joined a diverse group of strong women from around the world, each with stories of resilience and ambition. What makes it interesting is that I was the youngest in the most significant room.
The meeting brought together leaders from various sectors, including government, private sector, NGOs, and advocacy groups, all united by a common goal: to harness the transformative power of technology to enhance opportunities for women.
The meeting began with speeches from inspiring women in the white house who shared their journeys and the significant work they have been doing to complement the work of the current administration. The first speaker, Ms. Bintu, special adviser to the Vice President to Africa spoke about her duties, Playing a crucial role in strengthening ties between the Vice President's office and African nations, promoting mutual interests, and enhancing cooperation on various fronts overcoming obstacles and the importance of representation in tech. Also had other dynamic young women, Ms. Stephan Ogonuwe from the gender department, Ms. Linet, and Margaret Molly Ariotti the Director for Coastal West Africa National Security Council whose presence graced the meeting.
We explored several key themes, such as increasing access to digital education and resources, promoting women in STEM fields, and creating supportive networks for female entrepreneurs. Several speakers shared success stories of women who have leveraged technology to overcome barriers and achieve their goals, highlighting the critical role of mentorship and community support. I was honored to contribute to the conversation on sustainability, and women's empowerment in technology, highlighting its essence for continuity.
The discussions also emphasized the need for policy initiatives that address the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology. By fostering an inclusive environment, we can empower women not only to participate in the tech industry but also to lead and innovate.
Overall, my visit underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving initiatives that support women, ultimately leading to a more equitable and prosperous society. The conversations ignited a renewed commitment to advancing these efforts, and I left feeling hopeful about the future of women in technology.
Leaving the White House, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. This visit not only inspired me but also connected me with a network of incredible women. The journey ahead would be challenging, but I was ready to embrace it, armed with the knowledge that change starts with one voice mine was ready to be heard.
A moment to remember—bumping into President Biden as I leave the White House! Inspiring leadership in action, what an honor to cross paths with President Biden, Grateful for the experience.
Special thanks to the USTTI, NTIA the Department of Commerce for making this happen, together we will make Africa a better place for all through technology.
the weight of history at the White House.
’m Blessed #
