Build your tribe

I interviewed my good friend Faith Kaoma, founder of the women’s rights charity, Copper Rose, for International Women’s Day. We spoke about life at university and breaking into the workplace for the ESSA blog - which features the latest news and voices about education in Africa.

“At this point in the 21st century we should be able to move on from saying the ‘first female’, being a female in any role should be a normal thing.” - Faith, Founder of women’s rights charity Copper Rose.

Faith explains how her home and family life affected the choices she made about her education.  

“My older sister inspired me to go to university and inspired me to apply to get a master’s degree; to always aim for the best and attain the best.” 

Faith states that women must be adequately encouraged to lead while at university and be prepared for the realities they’ll face when they leave. In addition to institutional support in school and in the workplace, networks and mentorships also play a vital role in helping build a young woman’s confidence, and in helping advance her career path.

“I would really encourage young women out there to build their networks and build their tribe of people who would support and root for you. Having someone say good things about you because they have seen your work really goes a long way.”