The event, held at the College of Business and Economics of the University of Rwanda in Gikondo, focused on leadership, gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights.
From the opening keynote, the message was clear: “You are not chickens scratching in the dirt. You are eagles, born to soar, built to lead, and destined to return to your nest to lift others.”
This powerful message encouraged participants to take charge of their potential and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Several young women stood out for their stories and achievements. Anderson Tuyizere, a project management student and GLF member, spoke about her commitment to gender justice: “I believe in women empowerment and all genders. I don’t support any injustice, whether it’s a woman or a man.” She has already launched an Equality Circle at Kepler College to create a space for dialogue and change.
Karine Usanase, from East Africa’s first business analytics cohort at Kepler College, defined gender equality as having access to opportunities without limits set by gender. Tafaul Wazil, also at Kepler, emphasised the importance of confidence: “What my brother can do, I can also do. What they can achieve, I can also achieve.”
Gloria Nshutinziza, a law student at Mount Kigali University, shared her experience overcoming doubts from male classmates. Appointed class representative in her first week, she went on to become President of the School of Law, proving her leadership through action.
The Girls Leadership Forum was first launched in 2012 at the University of Rwanda. Nkundimfura Rosette, the Executive Director of GLF Rwanda, shared the organisation’s impact on enhancing leadership among girls.
“GLF was created with the goal of transforming four key areas, the first being women’s leadership, which personally motivated me. There was a widespread belief that girls were only fit for roles like secretaries, gender officers, or protocol positions,” she said.
“I’m proud to say that GLF has made significant progress, reaching numerous universities and secondary schools, and things have changed. Girls are excelling and holding key leadership roles. We are pleased to see a shift in mindset, and with over 500 members, none of them have experienced unwanted pregnancies,” she said.
In a world where the voices of young girls are often silenced, the Pan-African Adolescent Girls Movement, targeting girls from 17 to 24, stands as a beacon of empowerment. This initiative, launched in Rwanda with the support of the Graca Machel Trust and implemented by GLF Rwanda, aims to provide adolescent girls across Africa with the tools to break through barriers and claim their rightful place as leaders of tomorrow.
The movement is designed to nurture, mentor, and connect young girls, equipping them with the skills and confidence to lead not only within their communities but across the continent.
With a vision to reshape Africa’s future, the movement is set to inspire the next generation of visionary women who will drive positive change, challenge the status quo, and create lasting impact in their societies.
Hear from some of the leading voices in the video below.
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