As we approach the remarkable occasion of the African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC) Silver Jubilee, it is fitting to express heartfelt gratitude to the ASEC Board of Directors, Advisory Board members, Coordinators, facilitators, and everyone involved for their tireless efforts that have led us to this milestone.
The ASEC program has played a pivotal role in advancing society, nurturing individual Sisters and their congregations. Notably, Mr. Conrad N. Hilton’s generous funding has expanded educational opportunities for Sisters across Africa, showcasing his visionary understanding of education’s transformative power in enhancing the capacity of women to serve the marginalized.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to be a beneficiary of the Sisters Leadership Development Initiative (SLDI) finance track in 2023-2024. The orientation phase, where we received laptops, was a significant enhancement to my learning, enabling me to master various aspects of computer usage and improving my accountability in reporting.
Throughout the program, I was challenged to evaluate my responsibilities as community coordinator, bursar, and school director. The QuickBooks training was particularly enriching, simplifying my work in managing accounts and enabling me to train my fellow Sisters and school bursar in its use.
Participating in topics like social entrepreneurship and resource mobilization has equipped me to serve my community more effectively. I have initiated a piggery and poultry project that improves the community’s income, creates jobs, and provides organic fertilizer for our gardens.
Additionally, my team and I have advocated for vulnerable children in our area, successfully placing sixteen children in school. This was achieved through a funded proposal to donors, and their parents now meet weekly to support their children’s education.
Throughout this journey, I have developed effective communication skills and the ability to delegate responsibilities. Challenges such as balancing multiple roles and enduring physical discomfort during long training sessions taught me discipline and commitment. The training solidified my belief that advocacy can begin even without financial resources, emphasizing passion and community effort.
The knowledge and mentorship gained through ASEC inspire me to share my experiences and continue mentoring others. I encourage current participants and prospective applicants to network with alumni to drive societal impact. Our collective work, initiated by Mr. Hilton and supported by ASEC, must flourish to leave a legacy for future generations. Long live ASEC!
