Redefining Leadership in Our Communities.
In many of the communities we serve, leadership is not always seen as something women can claim.
There is a Burundian proverb that says: “Ntankokokazi ibika, isake ihari” — a hen cannot speak when the rooster is present. For generations, this belief has shaped how women see themselves, and how they are seen by others.
Many women grow up internalizing the idea that their voice does not matter. That even when they speak, they may not be heard. Over time, this silence becomes a barrier that limits their participation in education, economic activities, and decision-making spaces.
At Faith in Action Africa, we recognize that leadership is a doorway to confidence, agency, and opportunity.
This is why leadership is a core part of our life skills program.
In our sessions, we create safe spaces where women begin to explore questions such as: What is leadership? Who can be a leader? What makes a good leader?
But beyond the questions, something deeper happens.
Women begin to speak challenging long-held beliefs and start to see themselves differently.
As Parfaite NIYOYABIGIZE shared: “Before these sessions, I would stay quiet even when I had ideas. Now, I speak in our group meetings but also in the community. I feel like my voice matters.“
Importantly, these conversations include both women and men. Because shifting mindsets is a shared journey. Together, communities start to question norms that have long gone unchallenged, and begin to create space for women’s voices to be heard and valued.
When a woman finds her voice, it changes her life and transforms families, communities, and the future we are building together.
Leadership should not be dismissed based on who is speaking, but embraced based on the value of what is being said.