“We are calling for investment in our dreams”
This year, 16-year-old Rebecca, took her seat as Her Excellency, the Swedish Ambassador for the day. Rebecca sat down with the official Swedish Ambassador, Per Lindgärde, and attended a briefing with the embassy staff.
The 2 shared a moment, discussing the background of the embassy, including Swedish global history and Rebecca went through a pamphlet detailing Sweden’s history. The embassy staff members had an opportunity to introduce themselves to Rebecca, and they also shared their roles at the embassy. It was a first for Rebecca who had never set foot in any embassy before.
Rebecca took over the role of Swedish Ambassador for the day as part of Girls Takeover for International Day of the Girl, where girls step into the roles of leaders for a day to demand equal power, freedom and representation for girls and young women.
The theme for International Day of the Girl Child 2024 is: girls leadership in times of humanitarian crisis.
Leadership in Rebecca
Rebecca, an enthusiastic student with a strong passion for learning enjoys applying herself to new challenges. She also enjoys volleyball, netball and has attended training sessions on leadership at her school.
“As girls, we are calling for investment in our dreams. It is crucial that we break down the barriers that hold girls back. We are happy that the government has put in place laws and policies to protect children. For example, the Marriages Act addresses child marriage and the Education Act as amended allows girls who have had children to return to school,” said Rebecca.
“We all have a responsibility to advocate for girls’ rights and to amplify their voices, especially in times of crisis. Let us recognise and address the unique challenges that girls face on a daily basis, such as child marriage, limited access to SRHR [sexual and reproductive health and rights] information and services, early pregnancies, and limited opportunities for leadership and decision-making,” she added.
Reflecting on her day as Ambassador, Rebecca was enthused by the Ambassador’s commitments, “I had a great day at the Swedish Embassy. I am inspired and motivated and I am looking forward to more meetings with the Ambassador.”
International Day of the Girl
International Day of the Girl is celebrated globally by Plan International on the 11th of October every year. The aim of the day is to provide a platform for learning and awareness on issues affecting girls and young women in Zimbabwe. The theme this year focused on how girls can lead in times of humanitarian crisis, where the El Nino-induced drought has constrained resources and girls face the real possibilities of dropping out of school, food insecurity, and challenges to realising their rights. The campaign theme focused on the kind of knowledge, skills, and capacity that girls need to survive, thrive, and lead in a humanitarian crisis.
Categories: Youth empowerment
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