During my time in Europe (and more on my travels later!) I have come to realise that there are conversations and views around the world that have not yet made it to Sub-Saharan Africa. We are occasionally guilty of disguising or disregarding hard truths about how our society works, which disadvantages a whole host of individuals. In these blog posts, I want to draw your attention to some of the loopholes we have in society while also offering guidance founded on my own experiences as well as those of some influential women, in the hopes of assisting other young women who are just starting out in their careers or pursuing their academic careers.

As young women, we frequently lack mentors or people who can assist us to level up and navigate the obstacles we face as we grow in our local societies. This is particularly true of Tanzania, where I am from. I want to utilize this platform to talk to young women, striving to learn and grow in the face of adversity while striving to achieve their goals, and through that medium to perhaps help others overcome their own problems. I will look through the lens of some of the young ladies who are frequently misconstrued in various situations, perhaps due to their personalities, such as those who are introverted in the midst of exuberant peers and see how we may leverage their experiences to enhance their learning process.

Dear young woman,  

As a young woman, you might not understand why the world throws all sorts of judgmental daggers and overblown ideals at you, but I want to reassure you that there is a shoulder you can lean on, and we can get through this together. Believe in yourself and realise that you are here for a reason. I understand that you may be faced with an array of social hurdles, some of which may originate from your own family, academic institutions or the wider society but do not be discouraged. You may not have the same liberties as your male counterparts in the household, all in the name of the roles you will supposedly play in the future: you as a wife and mother, your brothers as husbands and fathers, but be calm. These expectations do not have to define your path.

Boys are frequently perceived to have an edge over their female counterparts. On a regular basis you will be groomed in this mindset within your family, but the power is in knowing who you are and soaring above the waters in the midst of all the upheaval. You can still be a leader while wearing a skirt in a room full of suits and trousers. From a very tender age, you have been trained to juggle between tasks, completing chores and running errands while simultaneously being expected to complete your homework. It may be difficult for you to offer your best in class at times, but trust me when I say that you can exceed expectations if you stick to it. Believe me when I say that society has a role to play in easing the strain on your shoulders. You are still a child like everyone else. If it does not work in your favour, it is not for nothing; it implies that if you do not succeed academically, you have acquired social intelligence. I would like to reassure you that it is not your fault. There is yet hope and options for you. Do not lose hope!!

Sincerely, 

Ruth

In Summary:

As a society, let us not undervalue the position of young girls. I guess the million-dollar question is: what kind of nation are we building if these are the same people we expect to teach future generations while subjecting them to a host of cognitive, emotional, physical, and societal constraints? We empower a nation by empowering these young girls and women. Let us join forces to transform and develop women into growth engines for our nation.