Pomp and Colour as Champions of Gender Equality Honoured

Part of the participants of the Gusii Women In Leadership Network (GWILN) pose for a photo after the high tea event that took place on December 21, 2024 in Kisii town. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
  • Ms Kangwana emphasized that change does not require reinventing the wheel but building on existing efforts and creating systems that amplify diverse voices.
  • She highlighted the importance of reflecting on past achievements and learning from them.
  • Among the honorees were women who have broken barriers in various fields as they seek to serve humanity.

Leadership is not just about power over others but about empowering others. It’s about influencing, inspiring, and creating pathways for change

Shairoz Shamji, a certified practicing mediator and award winning women and girls empowerment champion.

The Gusii Women In Leadership Network (GWILN) convened on December 21, 2024 to reflect on the strides they have made in the past one year.

Apart from taking stock of the gender equality journey, they also honoured individuals who have championed the cause.

The event which took place in Kisii town was a platform for reflection, strategy, and celebration, bringing together leaders, youth, and advocates committed to fostering inclusive leadership.

Among the honorees were women who have broken barriers in various fields as they seek to serve humanity.

Also honoured were men who have actively championed gender inclusivity.

Journalists who have curved a niche in reporting gender issues were not left behind.

Edinah Kangwana (award winning transformational leader) emphasized the importance of engaging men in gender equality initiatives, recognizing that true progress requires collective effort.

“Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal issue,” Kangwana stated.

Ms Edinah Kangwana welcoming attendees and sharing the Gusii Women In Leadership Network (GWILN) journey. She is also the Founder & CEO of Arise Circle Africa. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

She said, by honoring male allies, they hope to foster a culture where both men and women actively work together to create equitable opportunities.

“We are celebrating women leaders across various sectors, who have different stories,” Kangwana, one of the GWILN founders said.

She made it clear that their recognition of men was not a shift in focus but a call for inclusivity.

“When men stand with us, the impact is amplified,” Kangwana who is also the Founder & CEO of Arise Circle Africa noted.

She highlighted the importance of reflecting on past achievements and learning from them.

“Today, we were not only celebrating but also taking stock of the journey of gender equality; where it started and where we are now as a way to strategize better for the future,” she said.

Kangwana emphasized that change does not require reinventing the wheel but building on existing efforts and creating systems that amplify diverse voices.

Ms Rose Nyaundi, receiving the award on behalf of her aunt, Hon. Clare Omanga, a retired politician and women leader. Hon. Omanga, the first woman to hold the position of Mayor for the defunct Kisii Municipality was awarded by GWILN for being a trendsetter for the Gusii women. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Hon. Clare Omanga. PHOTO/Courtesy.

During the event, retired politician and women leader, Clare Omanga was awarded for being a trendsetter for the Gusii region.

Omanga was the first woman to hold the position of mayor for the defunct Kisii Municipality.

Owing to her various achievements, Omanga is regarded as a trailblazer.

She is chronicled to be the first woman ever in Gusii region to attend high school.

Though no longer frequent in public limelight in recent years, Omanga is celebrated as an inspiration to aspiring women leaders.

During the event, Kitutu Chache South MP, Anthony Kibagendi was named “Male Gender Equality Champion” for his efforts in championing gender equality.

Anthony Kibagendi, MP Kitutu Chache South was honoured for actively championing gender inclusivity. POSTER/GWILN.

Kangwana noted the importance of inclusivity in leadership conversations.

“We recognized not just women but also men who have supported gender equality. We also honored a sign language interpreter who has been a champion of gender and disability mainstreaming. These are the agents amplifying voices that often go unheard,” she remarked.

The awards team cast the net wide and identified various professionals who made it to the recognition chat.

Ms Kangwana and her GWILN Co-founders; CPM Linet Moruri (L), a Communication & PR Strategist and Vane Nyabengi, a Micro Biologist, Data Analyst and Woman in STEM. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

“We had young mentees who are walking this journey with us, and many of them were honored for their contributions. We also acknowledge the role of media, which doesn’t exist on its own but thrives because of the people behind it,” Kangwana added.

Journalists; Chrispine Otieno, Julius Ongwae and Elijah Nyaanga Scholarman were also lucky to be celebrated as the “Male Gender Equality Champions” for their outstanding efforts in supporting the empowerment of women.

Shairoz Shamji, a certified practicing mediator and award winning women and girls empowerment champion addressing on the essence of authentic leadership. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Speaking to Scholar Media Africa, Shairoz Shamji, a certified practicing mediator and award winning women and girls empowerment champion, praised the initiative for its inclusive approach and reflected on the essence of true leadership.

“Leadership is not just about power over others but about empowering others. It’s about influencing, inspiring, and creating pathways for change,” she said.

Shamji noted that leadership is a mindset and a choice, not a position or title.

She urged both men and women to lead with courage, resilience, and purpose.

Ms Shamji and Edinah Kangwana take a photo during the end year get-together. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

“The leaders we celebrate today have shown us that leadership requires vision, authenticity, and action,” she added, stressing the importance of collaboration between genders to drive societal progress.

“Today, we are here as women leaders, taking stock of what we have done in the year 2024, where we stand in leadership, and our progress as a community,” Dolphin Bwari, a nominated member of the Kisii County Assembly said.

She highlighted milestones achieved in various areas, including leadership positions, education, and healthcare.

Dolphin Bwari, nominated member of the Kisii County Assembly speaking. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Bwari also pointed out the strides made in addressing critical issues like gender-based violence (GBV).

“We have looked at the steps we’ve taken to combat GBV and many other challenges. This reflection is key to ensuring we are on the right track to achieve gender equality,” she added.

“It’s not just about celebrating our achievements but ensuring that we sustain and build upon them. Together, we can get to the gender equality we all envision,” said the politician.

Attendees were inspired with powerful speeches, including one from Alice Kibagendi, who expressed her gratitude to Kangwana and the organizing team.

Alice Kibagendi, the Founder of Amara Initiative addressing the change-makes in attendance. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Alice Kibagendi celebrating after being honored as gender equality champion. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Kibagendi, the Founder of Amara Initiative commended GWILN for fostering inclusivity and driving meaningful community change through its initiatives.

“I want to commend what the GWILN is doing through Edna Kangwana and all the other leaders who have been running this program.

It’s very essential to explain that men and women in the community must move together if we are to progress,” Kibagendi said, emphasizing the need for unity in advancing gender equality.

She also appreciated the honorees for their impactful work, acknowledging their contributions to community and cultural development.

Alice Kibagendi is handed over a pair of shoes after emerging the highest bidder in a shoe auction initiative fronted by Shairoz Shamji, to symbolically show what women leadership ought to be and as well help in resource mobilization for GWILN programs. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

“At the end of the year, it’s wonderful to take a moment to reflect, take stock, and appreciate those who are driving change be it in women’s development, boy child empowerment, or broader community efforts. It’s a great initiative that deserves all our support,” Kibagendi added.

Kibagendi highlighted the importance of mentorship as a key element of leadership development.

“We look forward to strengthening mentorship programs next year, as they are invaluable in empowering individuals and building networks. Today’s event has showed us the power of collective action, and we hope to sustain the momentum,” she said.

Dr. Walter Okibo, a staunch advocate for the boy child and gender equality speaking on the essence of inclusivity in gender empowerment conversations. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Dr. Walter Okibo, a staunch advocate for the boy child and gender equality, emphasized the interdependence of men and women, advocating for a balanced approach where neither gender is favored over the other.

“Both women and men need each other. No one should be prioritized or sidelined,” Dr. Okibo said.

Reflecting on his experiences, he spoke about the importance of honesty and collaboration in creating spaces that foster equality.

“Leadership, whether for men or women, should be about integrity, honesty, and the willingness to serve without bias.”

He stressed that true progress requires an inclusive approach.

“The best friend of a man is a woman, and the best friend of a woman is a man. This mutual understanding and respect should be the foundation of our leadership and societal structures,” he noted.

He encouraged the audience to reject notions of power as a privilege of one gender, instead seeing it as a shared responsibility.

Dr. Okibo called for renewed efforts to balance societal roles and provide equal opportunities for all.

“This isn’t about building dynasties or empires; it’s about creating environments where both men and women can thrive together. That’s how we move forward,” Dr. Okibo said.

Vincent Sagwe, CEO of Safeline Farm and a transformational leader deeply involved in gender advocacy pose for a photo during the event. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Vincent Sagwe, a transformational leader deeply involved in gender advocacy, shared his insights emphasizing the importance of initiatives that touch and transform lives.

“I have been in gender work for a long time, and I can say that we believe in making a difference by touching lives,” Sagwe said.

He recounted attending a recent Arise Circle event, where Jamil Shamji, the keynote speaker, shared powerful insights on the future of leadership.

Sagwe echoed Shamji’s sentiments on the need for digital transformation in leadership.

“Shamji said that the leadership of the future is going digital, and I couldn’t agree more. She urged all of us to leverage social media as a tool to showcase what we do in the quest for gender equality,” he said.

He challenged attendees to embrace technology to amplify their impact. “When you share your work on social media, you not only inspire others but also create networks and opportunities for collaboration. Gender equality needs visibility, and digital platforms provide the perfect avenue for that,” Sagwe said.

Dr. Lyna Nyamwaya, PhD, Kenyan US based Leadership Coach, Author, Global Development Conversations Host & Curator, and Gender Equality Champion. She was honored as gender equality champion. PHOTO/Courtesy.
CPM Linet Moruri, a Communication & PR Strategist sharing insights about GWILN. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Vane Nyabengi, a Micro Biologist, Data Analyst and Woman in STEM speaking during the high tea event. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Background of the Gusii Women in Leadership Network (GWILN)

The Gusii Women in Leadership Network (GWILN) is a transformative platform founded in 2021 to address the historical and systemic patriarchal barriers that hinder women’s leadership development in Gusii region and across Kenya. The network is built on the premise that empowering women to lead boldly, speak confidently, and show up decisively can bring about significant socio-economic and political progress.

GWILN provides a unique space for women from all walks of life—those in high-level leadership roles, grassroots women leaders, and aspiring leaders—to connect, grow, and thrive through shared experiences and deliberate capacity building.

Vision: To create a future where women in Gusii and Kenya are equally represented in leadership and empowered to lead with courage, competence, and accountability.

Mission: To build the leadership capacity of women through mentorship, peer-to-peer learning, and advocacy, fostering a culture of boldness and readiness to lead irrespective of titles or positions.

CPM Linet Moruri, Margaret Mogaka, an oncology nurse and mental wellness advocate, Vincent Sagwe, Edinah Kangwana and Elijah Nyaanga, the Founder & CEO of Scholar Media Africa pose for a photo during the event. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Margret Mogaka, an oncology nurse, mental health and wellness champion, and women and youth empowerment champion was honored for gender equality championship. Escorting her from the stage is Stella Nyaboke, also an honoree. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Objectives

Leadership Development: Enhance leadership skills and readiness through structured programs such as mentor-mentee learning, peer exchanges, and storytelling from trailblazing women leaders.

Advocacy and Awareness: Highlight and address gender gaps in leadership by fostering conversations and creating awareness about the importance of gender equality in leadership roles.

Accountability and Support: Hold women in leadership accountable for their roles and responsibilities, while providing support structures to ensure their success.

Inclusivity: Promote leadership at all levels, from grassroots leaders such as mama mboga (micro-entrepreneurs) to women in high-level positions.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Provide a platform to raise awareness, advocate for policy changes, and support survivors of GBV, recognizing its impact on leadership and empowerment.

Strategic Pillars

Capacity Building: Facilitate peer-to-peer learning opportunities to exchange knowledge and ideas, and organize mentorship programs connecting emerging leaders with seasoned women leaders.

Advocacy and Influence: Conduct awareness campaigns on leadership gaps and the importance of women’s representation, and engage in policy advocacy to push for reforms that promote gender equality in leadership.

Community Engagement: Hold roundtable discussions and forums to amplify women’s voices, and share success stories and testimonies of women who have broken barriers to inspire others.

Accountability: Establish mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the performance of women in leadership roles, and encourage transparency and ethical leadership practices.

Edinah Kangwana takes a photo with Bernadine Ogeto during the high tea event. Bernadine was honoured for her role in supporting gender equality campaigns. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Impact

Since its inception, GWILN has made significant strides in celebrating and promoting women in leadership:

  1. Numerous women championed by GWILN have received awards and recognition for their impactful service, including 10 Presidential Awards conferred on members endorsed by GWILN.
  2. Several others have been celebrated in prominent leadership award forums, highlighting their dedication to service and empowerment.
  3. At the 4th annual gathering, GWILN hosted a memorable end-year event themed “Taking Stock of the Gender Equality Journey Inclusively.” This gathering brought together diverse groups, including men, women, youth, persons with disabilities, and professionals, to reflect on progress, celebrate gains, and address gaps. On this day, the first Gusii female mayor, Hon. Clare Omanga, was honored for her trailblazing contributions to leadership.
  4. GWILN actively addresses Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by raising awareness and advocating for policies to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.Our Mantra
    “Leadership is not about a title or a corner office; it’s about embodying the spirit of readiness to lead wherever you are.”

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Gusii Women In Leadership Network Celebrates the journey towards Equality

Ms Shairoz, Hon. Bwari and Marymaria Nyagaka, a Law Student and Students President at Kisii University take a photo during the event. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.

Conclusion

GWILN continues to bridge the gap in women’s leadership through intentional capacity building, advocacy, and mentorship. The platform celebrates achievements while addressing challenges such as GBV and gender inequality. With a commitment to inclusivity and accountability, GWILN is driving a transformative agenda for women leaders in Gusii and Kenya, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey toward gender equality and leadership excellence.

MORE PHOTOS

Japheth Nyakundi, MP for Kitutu Chache North was honoured as Male Gender Equality Champion. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Ms Kangwana pose for a photo with some of her mentees. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Marymaria Nyagaka, the Kisii University Students President and the first ever female to hold the seat since the inception of the institution holding her award of Gender Equality Champion. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
George Nyakundi, the founder of Mwanyagetinge Heritage Council speaking during the event. He was honoured as Male Gender Equality Champion. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Dr. Joseph Awire Wesonga, a Finance and Accounting professional, Leadership & Governance practitioner, and humanitarian. He was honored for Male Gender Equality Championship. PHOTO/Courtesy.
Dr. Paul Geteni, an education scholar and human resource professional received Male Gender Equality Champion Award. PHOTO/Courtesy.
Dr. Zachary Rabago, Chief Principal of Mwongori High School was honoured with Male Gender Equality Champion Award. PHOTO/Courtesy.
L-R: CPM Linet Moruri, Shairoz Shamji, Edinah Kangwana and Isabella Ondimu, a trader and caucus leader at Daraja Mbili Market taking a photo. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Isabella Ondimu, a trader and caucus leader at Daraja Mbili Market was honoured as gender equality champion. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
CPM Zipporah Matoke was honored with Gender Equality champion award. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Benard Kangwana, a Marketing Professional & Community Development champion was honoured as Male Gender Equality Champion. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Gladys Mokora was honored for championing rights of women who are abled differently. She is a sign language interpreter. PHOTO/Courtesy.
Alexina Ayega, reigning Miss Tourism Kisii County was also honoured during the high tea event. PHOTOS/Courtesy.
Donah Ong’uti, a counseling psychologist and Co-founder of Ether Wellness Centre Kisii receives an award for her impactful leadership as Vincent Sagwe, Dr. Walter Okibo, Jairus Kibagendi, George Nyakundi and Linet Moruri looks on. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Samora Kibagendi, a Digital Media Practitioner receiving his Gender Equality Champion Award. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Jairus Kibagendi and Donah Onguti, Founders of Ether Wellness Centre display their awards. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
Earl Stephens (L) and Owen Oirere, Edinah Kangwana’s mentees pose for a photo during the event. PHOTO/Mzii Photography.
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