As a pioneer of ASEC, this Sister reflects on 25 years of empowerment and growth through programs like SLDI and HESA. From overcoming challenges in online learning to managing impactful community projects, her journey showcases the transformative power of education and collaboration.
I am from Institute of Daughters of Mary and Joseph (DMJ). As a pioneer of the African Sisters Education Collaborative (ASEC), I reflect on my journey with immense gratitude for the transformative work ASEC has done for me and countless other religious women in Africa.
It is hard to believe that 25 years have passed since ASEC began. My personal transformation began with the Sisters Leadership Development Initiative (SLDI). Initially, I viewed it as a short empowerment course at the Arrupe Jesuit Institute. Those initial two weeks in Jinja sparked a passion for lifelong learning. We started with three core areas of training: Administration, Finance, and Project Management. I focused on Project Management, which has been instrumental in my career.
In 2012, a pivotal moment occurred when Sr. Lina Wanjiku Ndung’u invited me to join the Higher Education for Sisters in Africa (HESA) program. Despite my initial reluctance and doubts about further education, her encouragement awakened a determination within me. The HESA program was challenging yet rewarding.
The transition to online learning presented obstacles, but the camaraderie with fellow students kept me motivated. We had to navigate technical limitations, relying on emails for communication and submission of assignments. I even submitted an assignment while traveling on a bus!
My journey continued at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) in Nairobi, where I felt at home in the beautiful campus library. With diligent support from my professors, I graduated among the first cohort.
ASEC’s impact goes beyond my personal growth; it cultivates empowered women who will transform our communities. I now engage in various projects, including a memorial project for our congregation celebrating our Golden Jubilee. This initiative involved establishing a primary school, where I oversaw every phase from planning to construction.
Facing both financial and environmental challenges taught me resilience and teamwork. I’m grateful for the enthusiastic support from many who believed in our mission.
Overall, ASEC has empowered me and other religious women to take active roles in society. I am proud to be part of this transformative journey. Long live ASEC!
Be a Catalyst for Change: Sponsor a Sister’s Education
Through education, women religious like this Sister are transforming their communities, building schools, and inspiring future generations. By sponsoring a Sister’s education, you enable them to access vital training in leadership, project management, and community development. Your support ensures that more women religious can step into leadership roles, creating lasting change and fostering resilience in their communities.
This article is addressing the following UN Sustainable Development Goal(s):
