Our Interviews

Sneha Padayan, an elected local government representative from Kerala, India, shares her inspiring journey of stepping into politics at a young age and challenging societal norms.  Starting her leadership path through student activism and social service, Padayan discovered her passion for…

Zainab Jamil, a feminist activist, political organizer, and development professional from Islamabad, Pakistan, shares her powerful journey of political awakening, resistance, and advocacy for women’s rights.  Her path into activism began during her studies in gender studies, where she…

Jeniva Kayanda from Tanzania shares her experience at a Young Leaders Academy, reflecting on her first-time participation and the valuable lessons learned on leadership and community engagement.  As a nurse and community leader, she expresses her commitment to empowering women in her community…

Thembisile Mahuwa from South Africa shares her powerful political journey that began at a young age through youth political involvement.  Driven by a desire to address community challenges like crime, teenage pregnancy, and substance abuse, she chose to become an advocate for change despite…

Rachel Peace Kanyi from eastern Uganda shares her journey as a Youth Peace Ambassador inspired by the challenges in her community, including teenage pregnancies, school dropouts, and youth involvement in gambling and crime.  Motivated by these issues, she stepped into leadership and began…

Beline Irakoze, a 24-year-old law graduate from Burundi, shares her passion for youth and women empowerment through her work as a program manager at Africa Youth Leadership Coordination and as a mentor at Burundi American International Academy.  She is particularly focused on empowering young…

Mwende Mugambi, Civic Educator from Kenya reflects on her experience in the training.  She shares her engagement in advocating for youth and women’s participation in political spaces and highlights her work using technology to translate and make policies more accessible. She expresses…

Manuela Sunday from South Sudan, who works with survivors of gender-based violence, reflects on her experience at the International IDEA Academy.  She describes how the programme has strengthened her leadership skills and deepened her commitment to supporting women and girls affected by…

A human rights defender and journalist reflects on her experience at the Young Women Empowerment Leadership Academy by International IDEA and UN Women.  She describes the program as an eye-opener that has helped her better understand how to navigate leadership and politics as a young woman.…