ASEC News

Sharing talents leads to empowerment

African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC)

Sr. Teresa (center, in white) poses with some of the workshop participants.

Sr. Teresa reflects on her first experience facilitating a workshop in Malawi and how the SLDI Basic Technology workshop helped her to feel more confident in presenting her information in Power Point.

Little did I know that sharing brings one self-confidence. I participated in the SLDI Basic Technology workshop in 2016 and Finance Management workshop in 2017. Among other things in Basic Technology, we learned how to do a Power Point presentation. But, I did not have any personal confidence in mastering Power Point until I was asked to conduct a one week workshop on Human Sexuality and Relationships from August 14-19, 2017. The workshop was for 47 Junior sisters from 10 congregations under the Association of Women Religious Institutes in Malawi.

When I saw the number of sisters arriving at Msamba Centre in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe, I was so nervous and filled with anxiety. They were so ready for the workshop, but I wondered if I was! To make matters worse I saw that some sisters were even dropped off by their superiors. I remember a number of them asking me, “Who is going to be our facilitator?"

I couldn’t bring myself to tell them I was.

After the first day everything turned around. As I introduced myself and the rest of the group, I developed a little confidence. As time went by it was really enriching to share my experience in religious life with these very energetic sisters under the theme Human Sexuality and Relationships. It was quite exciting; to see the young sisters enjoy the concept of developing healthy relationships, and tips for living a successful religious life.

A large part of my new found self-confidence came from hearing that the sisters were impressed with the creative Power Point presentations that I used throughout the workshop. I attribute this to the SLDI Basic Technology workshop that I attended in August 2016. Now I am confident to stand in front of any group and make a presentation. My desire is to share my life experiences, and using power-point makes this easy and very professional. The positive feedback I get makes me feel empowered and determined to do more. Thanks to ASEC and all our donors.

Group photo of Sr. Teresa's first workshop/class. Congratulations, Sr. Teresa. We are proud of your accomplishment.

Group photo of Sr. Teresa's first workshop/class. Congratulations, Sr. Teresa. We are proud of your accomplishment.

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Sr. Teresa Mulenga, TS

Sr. Teresa Mulenga, TS
Author
Programs Coordinator – Malawi  

Sr. Loretta Mulry, IHM

Sr. Loretta Mulry, IHM
Editor
Volunteer Editor - USA  

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