She Matters Initiatives S/L

On this special occasion of our Independence Day, we extend warm wishes to all Sierra Leoneans. May this day remind us of our shared responsibility to promote peace, development, and unity across our nation.Be a positive change maker.
Happy Independence Day!

Youths in action for progressive voices and awaken initiatives Save the Children UK First Lady Fatima Maada Bio Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection Plan International SEND - SIERRA LEONE 50/50 Amb Jonathan Frank Johnson

TURNING AWARENESS INTO ACTION: ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE
A Formal Speech Presented at the She Matters Initiative Webinar on Climate Change
Speaker: Knoxforda Ayodele Glynis Nicol
Position: Deputy Executive Director, Children and Women Empowerment Organization
Date: 5 April 2026

“I extend my sincere appreciation to the She Matters Initiative for the honour of being invited to contribute to this important webinar on climate change. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share perspectives on a subject that directly impacts our present realities and determines the future of generations to come. This platform reflects a strong commitment to amplifying voices and advancing meaningful dialogue on global challenges.

Climate change is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. It is no longer a distant or theoretical concern, but a lived reality experienced through rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, flooding, drought, and environmental degradation. These impacts continue to threaten food security, health systems, livelihoods, and overall human survival, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Over the years, awareness of climate change has significantly increased through education, media campaigns, workshops, and advocacy programs. However, awareness alone has not been sufficient to drive the level of change required to address the crisis. The gap between knowledge and action remains one of the greatest barriers to progress.

Turning awareness into action requires a deliberate shift in mindset and behaviour. It begins with individual responsibility—recognizing that daily choices such as waste management, energy consumption, and environmental care collectively contribute to broader climate outcomes. At the same time, collective action is essential. Communities must actively engage in activities such as tree planting, environmental clean-ups, sustainable agriculture, and climate education. When communities act together, their impact is not only multiplied but also sustained over time.

Furthermore, meaningful climate action must include the active participation of young people and women, who are often the most affected by environmental challenges. Their inclusion in decision-making processes ensures that solutions are both inclusive and practical. In addition, climate advocacy plays a crucial role. Advocacy goes beyond awareness creation; it involves speaking out, influencing policy, and holding stakeholders accountable for environmental protection and sustainable development. Ultimately, climate action must be continuous rather than occasional, requiring long-term commitment, consistency, and a shared sense of responsibility.

Climate change represents not only an environmental issue but also a social, economic, and humanitarian challenge. While the effects are severe, there remains hope if individuals and communities commit to intentional and sustained action. It is no longer enough to simply understand the problem; the time has come to respond with urgency and purpose. Each of us must commit to contributing in whatever way we can, no matter how small it may seem, because collective small actions lead to significant global impact.

In closing, I emphasize that the responsibility to protect our planet rests on all of us. The future will not be shaped by what we know alone, but by what we choose to do with what we know. As a final reflection: “Awareness is the seed, but action is the harvest. What we do today determines what the world becomes tomorrow.”

Youths in action for progressive voices and awaken initiatives SEND - SIERRA LEONE Plan International Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection She Matters Initiatives S/L Save the Children UK Climate Change and Development Authority

Voices for Change: Action on SGBV, Climate Change and Youth Empowerment
Presented by: Asiatu Sesay on the online conference Meeting conducted by She She Matters Initiatives S/L in collaboration with Yapvai

TOPIC= THE ROOT CAUSES OF SGBV IN OUR COMMUNITIES,AND HOW CAN WE EFFECTIVELY CHALLENGE AND ADDRESS THEM

“SGBV refers to any harmful act carried out against a person because of their gender. It mostly affects women and girls, but men and boys can also be victims. SGBV includes acts such as r**e and sexual assault, domestic violence, forced and early marriage,FGM,trafficking, emotional or psychological abuse, and harassment. It is important to understand that SGBV is not just a personal issue,it is a serious community and human rights problem that affects the wellbeing and development of society as a whole.

The root causes of SGBV in our communities are complex and deeply rooted. One major cause is the unequal power relationship between men and women. From a young age, boys are often raised to believe they are in charge, while girls are taught to be submissive. This creates a sense of entitlement in some men, leading to control and sometimes violence. In many communities, a man’s authority is prioritized over a woman’s safety.

Harmful cultural and traditional norms also play a significant role. Practices such as FGM, forced marriage, and beliefs that women cannot refuse their husbands continue to exist. In some cases, a girl’s value is measured only by her ability to marry, rather than her education or personal ambitions. These beliefs are deeply ingrained and passed down from one generation to another.

Poverty and economic dependence further worsen the situation. Women who lack financial independence often feel trapped in abusive relationships because they have no means to survive on their own. Without access to money, shelter, or land, leaving an abusive environment becomes extremely difficult, forcing many women to stay for survival.

Another key factor is silence and a culture of shame. Survivors of SGBV are often blamed instead of being supported. Questions like “what were you wearing?” shift responsibility onto the victim rather than the abuser. Fear of stigma and judgment discourages many from speaking out, allowing perpetrators to continue their actions without consequences.

Weak laws and poor enforcement also contribute to the persistence of SGBV. Although laws exist in many countries, they are often not properly enforced. Cases are sometimes dismissed as “family matters,” and light punishments fail to deter offenders. This lack of accountability creates an environment where abuse continues unchecked.

Lack of education is another driving factor. Girls who are not educated have fewer opportunities and are more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. At the same time, boys who are not taught about respect, consent, and equality are more likely to grow into adults who perpetuate violence. Behaviors learned in the home are often repeated later in life.

Situations of conflict, war, and crisis also increase the risk of SGBV. During wars, disasters, or displacement, women and girls become even more vulnerable, especially in refugee settings. In many conflicts, r**e has been used as a weapon of war, causing long-term trauma and instability.

To address SGBV, lasting solutions are needed. Changing mindsets must begin with children. Boys and girls should be taught from an early age about equality, respect, and consent. Schools should include gender equality in their curriculum, and men and boys must be actively involved in the conversation and solutions.

Empowering women economically is also essential. Providing access to loans, vocational training, and land ownership can help women gain independence. Supporting women’s groups and ensuring girls stay in school will strengthen their ability to make choices and avoid abusive situations.

Communities must also create safe spaces and strong support systems. This includes shelters, helplines, counseling services, and legal aid for survivors. Community health workers should be trained to identify and assist victims, and safe reporting systems should be established so people feel confident to speak out.

Holding abusers accountable is critical. Law enforcement and judicial systems must treat SGBV cases seriously, ensuring proper investigations and fair trials. Communities should stop protecting perpetrators simply because they are influential or respected individuals.

Engaging religious and community leaders is another powerful strategy. Pastors, imams, chiefs, and elders have strong influence over societal attitudes. When they speak out against SGBV, people listen. Partnering with them can help shift harmful beliefs and promote positive change.

Finally, media and technology can be used to spread awareness and educate the public. Social media, radio programs, and community platforms can reach a wide audience, especially when messages are delivered in local languages. Online discussions, WhatsApp groups, and community radio can keep the conversation active and impactful.

Your voice matters, and your ideas count. Together, we can challenge harmful systems and build safer, more inclusive communities”

Save the Children UK First Lady Fatima Maada Bio SEND - SIERRA LEONE Youths in action for progressive voices and awaken initiatives Plan International 50/50 Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection

🔥 Don’t Miss Out! Be Part of the Change 🔥

Join us today for an impactful and eye-opening conversation on the challenges affecting the growth of our nation,and the powerful solutions we can create together.

💡 Your voice matters. Your ideas count.

📲 Download your Zoom Meeting App now and get ready to connect, learn, and take action!

🕖 Happening Today at 7:00 PM
🔐 Passcode is on the flyer

First Lady Fatima Maada Bio
Youths in action for progressive voices and awaken initiatives

Save the Children UK
Amb Jonathan Frank Johnson
SEND - SIERRA LEONE

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL

VOICES FOR CHANGE 2026

In a world where silence often allows injustice to grow, it is time for bold voices, united action, and meaningful change. Join us for an impactful and inspiring online conversation as we bring together passionate leaders, advocates, and change,makers to address some of the most pressing issues affecting our communities today.

💬 Theme: Voices for Change,Action on SGBV, Climate Change, and Youth Empowerment

This powerful session will explore:
🔹 The root causes of SGBV and how we can collectively address them
🔹 The critical role of youth in peacebuilding and sustainable development
🔹 Turning climate awareness into real, measurable action

🎤 Meet Our Speakers:
👩🏽‍💼 Asiatu Sesay From the all-inclusive talk on tackling SGBV in our communities

👨🏽‍💼 Dr. Ebrima Badjie
Founder of African Youth Organization, sharing insights on youth and peace building

👩🏽‍💼 Knoxforda Ayodele Glynis Nicol acting CEO and Co-Founder of Children’s and Women’s empowerment foundation (CaWeF)
Climate advocate, speaking on transforming awareness into action

🎙 Hosted by:
👨🏽‍💼 Jonathan Frank Johnson Founder & Executive Director
👩🏽‍💼 Samantha Konneh
Co-Host & Secretary General

📅 Date: 5th April, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM
💻 Platform: Zoom (Online Meeting)
🔐 Passcode:

This is more than just a conversation,it’s a movement. A space where ideas meet action, and voices become tools for transformation. Whether you are a young leader, student, activist, or simply passionate about making a difference, this event is for YOU.

🔥 Let’s raise our voices.
🌱 Let’s take action.
💪 Let’s build a better future together.

📢 Don’t miss out,invite a friend, share widely, and be part of the change!

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She Matters Initiatives S/L
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Youths in action for progressive voices and awaken initiatives (Yapvai)

Youths in action for progressive voices and awaken initiatives Ibrahim Biango

"Resplendent Moments: A Toast to Your Time"

In this resplendent tapestry of time's embrace,
Moments aglow, like stars in celestial grace,
Let us raise a toast to the days we hold dear,
To the memories that make our hearts flourish and cheer.

A toast to the dawn, when the sun's golden rays,
Paint the sky with hues in a breathtaking blaze.
With each new morning, life's canvas unfurls,
Inviting us to dance amidst this world of pearls.

A toast to the whispers of dusk's quiet sigh,
As twilight paints a portrait in the evening sky.
In these tranquil moments, we find solace and peace,
As our souls find respite, and all worries cease.

A toast to those cherished encounters we share,
The warmth of laughter, a bond beyond compare.
In the embrace of friendship, sweet harmony reigns,
Kindred spirits entwined, casting away life's pains.

A toast to the tender love that lights our way,
The sweetest melodies that our hearts still replay.
Through devotion's passion, our spirits ignite,
Guided by love's beacon, forever burning bright.

A toast to the victories, both great and small,
The triumphs that empower us to stand tall.
From every challenge faced, strength we obtain,
A testament to resilience, our battles sustained.

A toast to the quiet moments of reflection and dreams,
Where inspiration whispers and potential gleams.
In the sanctuary of solitude, we find our true self,
Unveiling hidden treasures in the depths of our wealth.

So, let us raise our glasses, and all join as one,
In celebration of the blessings that time has spun.
For in resplendent moments, our spirits align,
And the beauty of life's tapestry eternally shines,happy birthday Ms SIDIBE,Amen to all your wishes and prayers.
Sidibe
@ Feminist Lala

Happy birthday dearest Ms SIDIBE,may all your wishes and prayers come to light,and may grace be your left and right hand.

AFRICA WILL RISE AGAIN

In the land where the sun forever beams,
Where mighty rivers flow in splendid streams,
There lies a story, untold, yet heard,
Of a fallen Africa, once pride restored.

Oh, Africa, mother of ancient tales,
Where kingdoms rose and warriors set sail,
Your beauty, unmatched, from mighty heights,
Now reduced to shadows in the darkest nights.

Centuries have passed, empires have crumbled,
Yet the spirit of your people remains untroubled,
Through shackles of slavery and chains of pain,
Africa, dear Africa, you shall rise again.

Like the resolute lion, majestic and strong,
Roaring through adversity, righting all wrongs,
Your people, the warriors, will reclaim their might,
In every dawn, a beacon shining bright.

Through deserts of despair, your forests of hope,
Shall birth a fire, radiant, not easily broke,
The fallen Africa, with each passing day,
Grows stronger, determined to find its own way.

From the Sahrawi dunes to the Congo green,
From the plains of Serengeti to the Zambezi serene,
The voice of the people, repressed and denied,
Shall echo in unison, resounding worldwide.

For in every heart and in every soul,
Lies the conviction, the power to be whole,
The fallen Africa, with wings anew,
Soars through skies of freedom, forever true.

So let the drums beat, let the rhythm sway,
As Africa's melodies rise, never to decay,
With unity and strength, hand in hand,
The fallen Africa shall reclaim her land.

Oh, Africa, your time will surely come,
When justice prevails and darkness is undone,
For the spirit of your people, steadfast and pure,
Shall rise again, with a future secure.

Jonathan frank Jonson
(JJAYLUCK D’SAGE POET)
From Sierra Leone 🇸🇱

MESSI THE LEGENDARY 8

In the realm of football's illustrious acclaim,
A tale of greatness crafted in the game,
Emblazoned in history, a name defies fade,
Messi, the legendary eight charmed escapade.

Born in the land of Argentina's embrace,
Lion-hearted Lionel, gifted with grace,
From humble beginnings, a spark did ignite,
A destiny sealed, to soar amidst the light.

With nimble feet, the ball his loyal guide,
Each stride, a brushstroke, on the field to glide,
Through intricate dance, weaving spells untold,
Enchanting the world, young Messi did unfold.

From Barcelona's shores, the Cules did stand,
Marveling at his skills, minds couldn't comprehend,
Their breath halted, as he curved the ball’s flight,
Bending the laws of physics, the crowds ignite.

Goals flowed prolific, records turned to dust,
Opponents humbled, their defenses left in rust,
The stadium roared, a symphony for his might,
As Messi's genius soared through the night.

A glint in his eyes, an insatiable desire,
Pushing boundaries, to reach goals much higher,
The Golden Ball dances, never out of sight,
Claiming it eight times, with celestial might.

Despite the weight of fame, his self remained,
A heart untouched by greed, forever unchained,
Embracing the joy, the thrill of the chase,
In Messi's kingdom, humanity finds solace.

But through the glory, shadows often loom,
National heartbreak, a nation in gloom,
Yet Messi perseveres, undeterred he fights,
For the dream of bringing the World Cup's light.

Messi, the legendary eight, an immortal force,
His legacy etched, a testament, no remorse,
A beacon of talent, an inspiration profound,
Forever adored, Messi the infinity,in our hearts, forever crowned.

G.O.A.T LEO

STAGE POET
(Jonathan f Johnson )