The Founder of Woman Kenya Network replaces Sharon Kechula who served as the acting executive director for four months. 

A statement shared by AMWIK board that was signed by the chairperson Jane Thuo says that Queenter’s  appointment follows a rigorous and competitive hiring process. 

The board said,”She has demonstrably championed gender equality throughout her career, establishing a Gender Desk, revamping anti-sexual harassment policies, and launching innovative mentorship programs,”

Ms Mbori’s passion and commitment in championing gender equality, inclusitivity  and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups align with AMWIK’s mission and will ensure its continuity to its members and stakeholders. 

Speaking during an interview with Woman Kenya Network, Ms Mbori relayed optimism in her new role. Being keen on making impact, Queenter asserted that the platform will allow her to serve women in media across the forty seven counties.

She shared, 

” This is a platform I wanted to tap into because I’m really keen on making an  impact. AMWIK offers a great space to engage women in the media because it draws from the entire nation the 47 counties in Kenya. We have members across the board representing different media organizations and related fields such as communication and Public Relations ( PR). 

“AMWIK has the potential to create opportunities for women in the media in the Public Relations space and the potential to pull resources from these women which can be used to advance  democracy and enhance media freedom in the country.” 

The celebrated advocate for gender equality has demonstrated her passion and commitment in many capacities.She has over twelve years in media management across Africa. The Moi University alumnus has held editorial positions at Mwananchi Communications LTD, Bang! Magazine and Standard Media Group PLC. 

As a certified media trainer , the award winning multi media journalist is an expert in understanding the challenges and opportunities that face women in the media industry.

 Her background in gender inclusive story telling, thought leadership and sustainable journalism make her well-equipped to navigate the ever changing media landscape. 

Queenter’s commitment goes beyond the newsroom. She also offers her expertise to multiple organizations. She is a founding member of the Standard Group Women Network (SGWN).

Queenter is the current Board Chair of SGWN and sits on other boards including African Women in Media and Kigali Declaration Advisory Committee. 

Woman Kenya Network As A Trusted Voice For Kenyan Women 

Woman Kenya Network (WOKN) is a distinguished media company that’s committed to advancing gender equality and promoting the equitable participation of women and girls in society.

 Launched in 2018, WOKN has grown in leaps and bounds to become an award-winning platform and the trusted voice for women and girls. 

WOKN is a fully-fledged digital media platform with a vibrant social media presence on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

WOKN has become a trusted and reliable source of information on gender-sensitive content covering diverse thematic areas including Politics, Climate, Peace and Security, Gender Justice, Health, Economic Empowerment, and SRHR as guided by SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.  

The media company is the main sponsor of the Top 20 Most Influential Women in Kenya Awards. They also hold regular themed events and social networks like the Women in Leadership and provide a platform for women to build networks and advance gender equality and inclusion.

The Association of Media Women In Kenya 

AMWIK was founded in 1982 by a group of women journalist at a time when women voices and issues were given very little attention in the media. 

AMWIK’s objective is to promote an informed and resourceful society through professional development and transformation of the media to enhance the status of women in Kenya.

The organization pulls over 300 women in the media across different parts of Kenya , community networks and media associations across 47 Kenyan counties, pulling their professional skills and giving visibility to the concerns of women. 

AMWIK’s vision is to see a society in which the media embraces and promotes equitable development, human rights and women rights. 

AMWIK’s mission is to use the media to promote an informed and gender responsive society in Kenya and Africa.

The post CEO Woman Kenya Network , Queenter Mbori Determined to Elevate Women Across Kenya as AMWIK’s New Executive Director appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

After Amadi’s departure, the JSC initiated a recruitment process, attracting 43 applicants, with seven being shortlisted. Following interviews conducted by a JSC panel on Monday, March 19, Mokaya emerged as the chosen candidate, as announced by Chief Justice Martha Koome in a communique on Tuesday morning.

Among the candidates who were unsuccessful in the interview process were Macharia Rose Wachuka, Ouma Jack Busalile Mwimali, Wambeti Anne Ireri, Ndemo Paul Maina, Kendagor Caroline Jepyegen, and Kandet Kennedy Lenkamai.

With over 27 years of experience in the courts, Mokaya previously held the position of JSC Registrar in 2012 and has also served as a Senior Principal Magistrate. In her new role, she will serve as the Chief Administrator and accounting officer of the Judiciary, as well as secretary to the Judicial Service Commission and the National Council on Administration of Justice, according to Chief Justice Koome.

The post JSC APPOINTS FRIDA MOKAYA THE NEW CHIEF REGISTRAR appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

On Sunday November 6, she took the new ride for prayers and blessings at Kingdom Aflame Ministries in Bomet. 

“I am glad they took part in praying for the new vehicle as I  intend to use it for official duties that benefit the locals of Bomet County,” she said.

News of a new ride has received mixed reactions from Kenyans on social media with some congratulating her while others are accusing her of having priorities mixed up.

One user wrote: “Your focus is on buying vehicles and building mansions instead of legislation, the job you lied to the electorate you’d be doing.”

“We thank God for lifting you and your family, you are an inspiration to our young girls,” said another user.

Also in the comments section were jobseekers looking for an opportunity to chauffeur the youthful MP and people reminding her not to forget the bodaboda rider who helped her campaign when she had limited finances. 

Grass-to-grace 

Toto, hails from Chemulal, Bomet County and is the third born child to Leonard Lang’at and Betty Lang’at. Hers is the true definition of a grass-to-grace success story. 

In a recent trip to Rwanda for the Youth Connect Africa Summit, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently called her one of the miracles in our country. 

“I came with one of the miracles in our country, a little young girl, 24 years old and was elected as the Woman Rep of Bomet county defeating a mature experienced woman,” he said. 

Before politics, she survived on odd jobs, worked as a house help, selling mitumba and roadside chips. Toto holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Procurement ( 2021) from Tharaka Nithi University. 

Linet was elected to the 13th Parliament in Kenya under the United Democratic Party (UDA) winning the seat with a resounding 242,775 votes against 8 candidates. Her closest opponent was Dr Alice Milgo who garnered 43180 votes in the August 9 elections.

The post LINET ‘TOTO’ BUYS FIRST CAR appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

“I commit on behalf of Kenya Kwanza Alliance that we shall allocate 50 percent of all Cabinet positions to the women of Kenya,” he said, arguing that it would be the best way to bridge gender inequality in the country.

As the new Kenya Kwanza government gradually takes shape, it is evident that the president has not delivered on this commitment. First came the cabinet secretary positions. Constitutionally, CS posts cannot exceed 22; and if the president was a man of his words, then 11 women should have been nominated to these influential spots. Only seven women made it to Ruto’s Cabinet; an equivalent of 31 per cent. 

Whereas the appointments meet the one-thirds constitutional requirement, it reflects on the mileage women in leadership in Kenya still have to go in order to attain at least 50-50 percent representation in leadership.

The CSs include Soipan Tuya (Ministry of Environment and Forestry), Rebecca Miano (Ministry of East Africa Community) Alice Wahome (Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation) Aisha Jumwa (Ministry of Public Service and Gender Affairs), Susan Wafula (Ministry of Health), Florence Bore (Ministry of Labour) and Penina Malonza (Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage).

On November 2, President William Ruto announced the names of 51 Principal Secretaries to serve in his government. Unfortunately, only 12 women were nominated, an equivalent of 23.6 percent. The list has been submitted to the National Assembly for vetting and approval.

Reacting to the recent appointments, immediate Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Public Service, Youth and Gender Prof Margaret Kobia expressed confidence in the nominees for PS posts. 

“I welcome the list of nominees for the position of Principal Secretaries as the majority of them are from public service and are competent to deliver for the government,” she said.   

However, she is concerned about the widening gender gap in political leadership and appointments. 

“It is disappointing that the nominations fall short of the target set-out in Article 26 (6), Article 27 (8) and  Article 81 (b) of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which states that ‘not more than two-thirds of the members in any elective or appointive positions such shall be of the same gender,” Kobia said, adding that, “I’m looking forward to seeing more efforts by the new government in closing  gender gaps for senior executive positions in government.”

Full list of the PS nominees in Kenya

Women Nominees

1. Teresia Malokwe – State Department for Devolution
2. Esther Ngero – State Department for Performance and Delivery Management
3. Caroline Nyawira Murage – State Department for Correctional Services
4. Betsy Muthoni Njagi – State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries
5. Roseline Njogu – State Department for Diaspora Affairs
6. Esther Thaara Muhoria – State Department for TVET
7. Beatrice Inyangala – State Department for Higher Education and Research
8. Veronica Mueni Nduva – State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action
9. Susan Mangeni – State Department for MSMEs Development
10. Sylvia Naseya Muhoro – State Department for Wildlife
11. Dr Josephine Mburu – State Department for Health standards and Professional Management
12. Aurelia Rono – State Department for Parliamentary Affairs

Men Nominees

13. Julius Korir – State Department for Cabinet Affairs
14. Raymond Omollo – State Department for Interior & National Administration
15. Prof. Julis Bitok – State Department for Citizen Services
16. Chris Kiptoo – The National Treasury
17. James Muhati – State Department for Economic Planning
18. Patrick Mariro – Defence
19. Dr Korir Sing’oei – State Department for Foreign Affairs
20. Amos Gathecha – State Department for Public Service
21. Joseph Mungai Mbugua – State Department for Roads
22. Mohamed Dhagar – State Department for Transport
23. Nixon Korir – State Department for Lands and Physical Planning
24. Charles Hinga – State Department for Housing and Urban Development
25. Joel Arumoyang – State Department for Public Works
26. Prof. Edward Kisiangani – State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications
27. Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui  – State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy
28. Eng. Peter Tum – State Department for Medical Services
29. Dr Belio Kipsang – State Department for Basic Education
30. Philip Kello Harsama – State Department for Crop Development
31. Harry Kimutai – State Department for Livestock development
32. Alfred K’Ombundo – State Department for Trade
33. Abubakar Hassan – State Department for Investment promotion
34. Juma Mukhwana – State Department for Industry
35. Patrick Kiburi Kilemi – State Department for Cooperatives
36. Ismail Madey – State Department for Youth Affairs
37. Jonathan Mueke – State Department for Sports and The Arts
38. Festus Ngeno – State Department for Environment
39. Ephantus Kimotho – State Department for Forestry
40. John Ololtuaa – State Department for Tourism
41. Ummy Mohammed Bashir – State Department for Culture and Heritage
42. Dr Paul Ronoh – State Department for Water and Sanitation
43. Gitonga Mugambi – State Department for Irrigation
44. Alex Wachira – State Department for Energy
45. Mohamed Liban – State Department for Petroleum
46. Geoffrey Kaituko – State Department for Labour and Skills Development
47. Joseph Mugosi – State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs
48. Abdi Dubart – State Department for East African Community Affairs
49. Idris Dogota – State Department for The ASALs and Regional development
50. Elijah Mwangi – State Department for Mining
51. Shadrack Mwadime – State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs

The post PROF MARGARET KOBIA: MORE WOMEN SHOULD OCCUPY TOP GOVERNMENT POSITIONS appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

How did you find yourself in administration?
I saw a job advertisement in the newspaper in 2014 and applied for it, got shortlisted, did the interview and passed. It was easy because I was qualified.

What is your biggest challenge working in county administration?
First and foremost, people still associate ‘DO’ jobs with men only. In fact, they are shocked when I introduce myself as the ‘DO’ in meetings or dispute meetings. Some locals don’t even think I am capable of handling administrative issues and prefer to escalate personal matters to my seniors.

Secondly, insecurity is a deterrent for women doing my kind of work because there are high-risk areas where we cannot be posted. Moreover, in this industry there is a lot of sexual harassment. It took a lot of time and work for men from patriarchal regions like Kajiado and Laikipia where I have worked to respect me and trust my competence.

Working around these issues must be a challenges?
That’s a good point. Wherever I am posted to work, I do thorough backgrounding and research on laws and cultures of that region. Moreover, any form of employment has a code of conduct to offer guidelines on professional ethics and dealing with work-related issues including sexual harassment.

How do you deal with discrimination?
The fact that I am a Maasai woman working in a male-dominated field, in patriarchal community predisposes me to discrimination. But what really ticks me off is when I tell people I am from Narok and the first thing they want to know is whether I have been ‘cut.’ I have learned to rise above this stigma by not talking about my background.

You are Founder of Lamuriak Woman; what inspired you to launch this initiative?
Lamuriak means wild fruits in Maasai language. Wild fruits grow and blossom without nurturing, pruning, watering, weeds or fencing yet people enjoy the fruits. If Lamuriak were taken care of, they would feed the whole community. A girl is like a Lamuriak, if nurtured, empowered and mentored well, she bears lots of fruits and takes care of the community.

Why is Lamuriak Woman Foundation important to you?

I grew up in the village all my life, living in the most remote parts of Narok County, Narok North Constituency. I went to local schools and necessities like sanitary towels were a luxury. From primary through to secondary school, I relied on my well-off classmates to support and give me sanitary towels every month. I thank God for them because they made my learning journey smooth. Today, God has blessed me with a job and based on my personal experience, it is my turn to pay forward and restore the dignity of women and girls from my community as well as other underpriviledged regions.

What activities are lined up for Lamuriak Woman Foundation?
My plan is to ensure the project is sustainable for girls to attend school the whole year without missing four-five days because of menses. We want to boost their self-esteem and self-worth.

Lamuriak also does mentorship for boys and men…
It is important to mentor boys because if girls are over-empowered, boys feel intimidated interacting with them. They develop stress and lack of motivation in life, leading to drug and substance abuse.

Your thoughts on communities that promote harmful cultural practices like FGM?

I come from the Maasai community, known for propagating practices I highly condemn such as FGM, early marriages and early pregnancies. I am a survivor of FGM but was lucky to overcome and complete my education. My parents didn’t force me to get married because I showed interest in education. I detest FGM because after the practice, the next thing that comes to mind is how to get a boyfriend and before long, the girl Is pregnant. Truth is, some young women elope with boyfriends or are married off by their parents against their wish. Meanwhile, parents celebrate marriage goodies in form of dowry.

Any future plans?
Learning never ends and I am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Development Studies from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

The post AFTER SURVIVING FGM, COUNTY BOSS NOW EMPOWERS YOUNG WOMEN appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

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Going by customer reviews, Shuya Sanitary Pads is a sure guarantee that your time of the month can be a little easier, more manageable and even enjoyable.

“Ever since I discovered Shuya line of pads, I totally switched and never looked back. All of my period problems seem to disappear – at least the ones related to the pads. No more leaking, no more overflow and no more wetness discomfort,” says Valentine, a regular user of the sanitary towels.

“Shuya Pads have solved all these problems! They absorb way more than you can even imagine and they don’t stick on you while wearing them, and I can confidently wear them at work or out in public and not have to worry about ‘red stains’ on my behind!! These pads are awesome, and if you’ve never tried them before, I highly recommend them!”

Valentine is not the only happy client, another satisfied customer based in Nairobi says her period worries are gone thanks to Shuya Pads.

“Since I discovered Shuya, I never want to miss them in the supermarket where I shop. I had very painful cramps but now the pains have subsided. While travelling with periods, I don’t have to worry anymore,” she said.

“I tried different brands but each was worse than the other. But ever since I started using Shuya, I never thought I would sleep without checking my bedsheets. I sleep like a baby. Good riddance to stains, it is almost unbelievable,” said the other happy client who has used Shuya pads and panty liners for over two years.

Shuya is very comfortable and comes with a dry feeling, adds the client who is fascinated by the minty freshness.

“You forget you are in your red days. I enjoy the freshness; no more infections, milder cramps and at some point in the day, I completely stop cramping and my favourite is the minty freshness. It’s like the pad is giving me, the ‘I’ve got you’ nod, like you’d give your bestie,” she told Woman Kenya.

The mint comes with a calming, fresh and relaxing vibe, she explains.

“I even first lay down to feel the mint properly. I’m grateful. If you see me use anything else, please slap me in the back. They are so comfortable. No burning sensation or the itching. They are absorbent and

don’t leak. No odors and the feel of mint is so heavenly. And the packaging is also attractive,” Shuya regular customer added.

Elsewhere, another user’s discomfort is completely gone.

“I have been having issues with different pads. I had lots of rushes until a friend recommended Shuya anion pads and panty liners. I have never regretted anything,” she told Woman Kenya.

What makes Shuya Pads unique?

Shuya Pads are organic sanitary pads made of natural materials that are very friendly to the skin and designed according to the flow. Additionally, they contain an anion strip that has numerous health benefits such as improving immunity, killing harmful bacteria and maintaining clean and comfortable plate. Shuya Pads accelerates oxygen circulation between private parts and outside area and has won good names like ‘vitamin of the air’ and ‘longevity element.’

The pads also have anti-bacterial capability, relieve tension, reduces irritation, removes bad odour and improve endocrine and enhances metabolism.

What shapes and sizes are available for Shuya Pads?

Shuya manufactures Shuya Panty Liners 155mm, Shuya Light Day use 245mm, Shuya Day/Night use 285mm, Shuya Night use 330mm and Shuya Ultra Long 410mm which is also recommended for maternity. Shuya does not manufacture tampons.

Are the pads ideal for maternity use and for teens?

Shuya ultra-long 410mm is designed for maternity use. The pad is highly absorbent and very comfortable for nursing mothers. For teenagers and people with light flow, we highly recommend Shuya Light Day use 245mm because it is small comfortable.

I experience very heavy flow, is Shuya Pads still ideal for me?

For heavy flow, we recommend 330mm or the super long 410mm Shuya Sanitary pads.

Can Shuya Pads cure painful periods?

Continued use of Shuya Pads improves endocrine and enhances metabolism thus reducing the pain associated with periods.

Where can I buy Shuya Pads in Kenya?

Shuya is listed in over 50 physical supermarket outlets such as Foodplus, Cleanshelf, Budget Supermarkets and Mulleys. You can order Shuya Online from Kasha Kenya and Jumia. We are at an advanced stage to have it on Glovo.

Who is the franchise owner and main supplier of Shuya Napkin Pads in Kenya?

Shuya Pads is supplied by Emitrican Enterprises Ltd whose proprietor is Emily Wanja Njeru. Her main business partner is Kasha Kenya, a leading Online markeplace for feminine health and beauty products in Kenya.

How much does one pack of Shuya Pads cost?

Our recommended retail price for Supermarkets is Sh155 for the sanitary pads and Sh170 for the panty liners.

Is it safe to switch from my regular sanitary towel to Shuya Pads?

Yes, it is safe to switch to Shuya products because they are made of natural materials and thus do not have the side effects associated with synthetic materials.

Should I stock up my pads for a year instead of buying every month?

The shelf date for Shuya products is usually two years from the date of manufacture and the expiry dates are printed on the product.

How often should I change my Shuya Pads?

Its recommended that you change sanitary pads after every four hours.

Can prolonged use of Shuya products affect my sexual reproductive health?

Yes, the anion strip balances the pH in the vagina thus improving sexual satisfaction.

How can I know that my Shuya Pads is not counterfeit?

All the products are ISO certified and each packer contains a free vaginal test kit

Can I do business with Shuya Pads?

Please contact Emitrican Enterprises Ltd marketing office via emitrican1@gmail.com or contact Kasha Kenya via ray@kasha.com for more details.

The post SHUYA PADS HAVE COMPLETELY CHANGED MY LIFE appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Here’s the solid proof. This year alone, the global nail industry grew to an estimated US$9.9 Billion, despite the Covid-19 crisis.

Actually, one survey indicates that 33 per cent of women own at least 25 bottles of nail polish. This is on the lower side as there are women with 300 plus bottles decorating their dressing table yet they can’t stop buying more.

To feed the growing demand for more advanced technology, the industry keeps launching new products and concepts all to the joy of consumers. But seriously speaking, who wouldn’t?

Wachinga Anami 28-year-old Kenyan woman literally nailed this opportunity to create a home-grown nail care line called Thamar to satisfy the over 26.5 million women in Kenya. Not forgetting the metrosexual male audience who have no qualms with occasional manicure or pedicure. Thamar is the reverse of Martha, Wachinga’s first name.

The financial engineering graduate not only wanted to give her clients variety but was also keen on self-employment and feeding her innate love of beauty. But Thamar’s unique selling point is her non-toxic range of products.

With nail polish a commonly used term for non-toxic products is five-free; which refers to polishes that do not contain five specific ingredients considered harmful. These are formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin and camphor. More advanced products market themselves as seven or even ten-free.

Wachinga explains that her nail care line is seven-free and, “Doesn’t contain harmful chemicals that could cause damage to skin or nails.”

The holder of a Master’s degree in Strategic Management created Thamar in two phases: Research and development and implementation. This was four years ago but the nail polish was officially launched in 2018 to cater to both men and women.

She explains why. “Getting a manicure or pedicure is luxury for everyone, and that includes men.”

Her argument is backed up by global research which has shown that the nail care market is growing significantly. An estimated 90 per cent of women and 12 per cent of men worldwide use nail care products. 

Thamar is inspired by Kenyan experience and comes in over 42 colour shades with unique local names such as Watamu Tamu, Nairoberry, Mombasa Raha or Mara green. 

The shades are heavily pigmented lacquers, long-lasting and chip resistant, Wachinga told Woman Kenya Network. In addition, the brand comes with a protective top and base coat, she says.

The youthful businesswoman who quit employment adds that they stock both regular and gel nail polish. And price ranges between Sh200 and Sh950. A leading chemist is their main distributor but they also have stockists in different towns. Clients can also buy directly from the website.

 If you thought the nail polish industry was losing colour, maybe you should think again.

The post SHE NAILED IT: 28-YEAR OLD MAKES A MARK IN NAIL POLISH BUSINESS appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

In a tweet, KPLC congratulated Yeda and expressed hope in her leadership.

“We are excited to announce the appointment of M/s. Vivienne Yeda, OGW, as the chairman, Board of Directors. She is the first woman to hold this position we look forward to holding this position. We look forward to her stewardship, and that of the entire Board, as we pursue our growth journey “

The Masters of Law holder served as the Director of the General East African Development Band before her appointment. She was awarded African Banker of the Year in 2014 for her exemplary work at EADB.

Yeda replaces replaces Mahboub Maalim.

According to 2017 KIM Leadership and Diversity Research report, representation of women on boards stands at 21 per cent up from 12 per cent in 2012. The same report identified that only 4 of the 52 listed companies sampled had female chairpersons, which is equavalent to 7.7 per cent representation.

Kenya’s Mary Njoroge to officiate at Women’s World Cup in 2023

World Football governing body Fifa has earmarked Kenya’s Mary Njoroge as a prospective woman Assistant Referee candidate in Fifa Women’s World Cup 2023 which will be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Mary is among 156 referees and assistant referees who have been named for the international showpiece.

The game changer has made huge strides in her career and remains to be a sports woman to reckon with. She was selected to officiate at the Fifa Women’s World Cup that happened in France last year.

She was also called to officiate at the eighth Africa Women’s Championships finals happening in Equatorial Guinea. Last year, Njoroge also made history upon officiating the 2019 U17 Africa cup of nations.

I will not withdraw the surrogacy Bill: Says MP Millie Mabona

HOTO: COURTESY

Mbita Member of Parliament Millie Adhiambo has vowed to stand by her surrogacy bill which elicited negative reactions from a section of prolife activists.

Taking to social media, the outspoken MP sent a stern warning to the demonstrators saying, “…I am withdrawing nothing, nada nono zero…”  

In Kenya, surrogacy is still shrouded in secrecy. To date, no law governs surrogacy and assisted reproduction, however the Reproductive Healthcare Bill 2014 surrogacy can happen informally subject to mutual agreement.

Through this bill, Millie addresses In-Vitro fertilization (IVF) pricing, piling cases surrounding surrogacy and quacks elimination. The IVF pricing presently stands at nearly Sh1 million; many couples have resorted to having the procedure done abroad.

Meanwhile, there have been cases of men eloping with surrogate mothers. According to the proposed bill, such cases will be addressed by a body called Assisted Reproductive Technology Authority.

Black Brazilian ballerina graces Brazilian Vogue cover

PHOTO: COURTESY

Ingrid Silva is the first black Brazillian ballet dancer to appear on Vogue Magazine’s cover. The ballerina celebrated this milestone with her follwers on social media .

“Dreams are possible! Representation is very important in every way…That’s exactly what this cover is. I am representing black women, Brazilian, ballerina (for those who dream or have dreamed) I am making history by being the first black ballerina on the cover of Vogue…” said the co-founder of Blacks in Ballet, a platform that highlights stories of black ballet dancers.

Silva is the founder of a women’s digital platform dubbed EmpowHer New York through which women share their career journeys.

The ballerina has also been ranked among the top 100 under 40 influential women according to Mipad 2020.

The post TOP STORIES: KENYA POWER APPOINTS WOMAN BOARD CHAIRPERSON appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

1. Guilty: Kenya’s author Joan Thatiah launches fifth book

On November 2, 2020 Kenya’s renown author Joan Thatiah shared exciting news about her latest book on her social media pages.

Guilty is Thatiah’s debut fiction novel published by Quramo Publishing and edited by Lolade Alaka.

The lawyer turned writer, who also works as a print journalist and publisher has previously authored Letters to My son (candid thoughts on life and romance), Too Pretty to be Broke (and other lies you’ve been telling yourself) and Things I Will Tell My Daughter (uncensored truth about love, money and womanhood).

Thatiah has also written, Damn Girl Stop That (how women shoot themselves in the foot). Her latest book Guilty has received good reviews from media outlets as well as individuals is available in major bookshops and retails for Sh1,490.

2. Lulu Hassan is the Most Stylish Female TV and Radio Personality

Citizen TV News Anchor Lulu Hassan (pictured), was recently crowned the Most Stylish Female TV and Radio Personality by Couture Africa Style Awards.

The TV personality who was competing against NTV’s Amina Abdi and Jane Ngoiri, celebrated her win with social media fans, thanking those who voted for her.

“Awww thank you people, I do not take your support for granted mbarikiwe sana,” she wrote.

The mother of three who works alongside her husband Rashid Abdalla has been serving couple goals on screens where they are often spotted in matching outfits. Abdalla is proprietor of Sisemikitu Clothing Line.

3. Mother daughter make history as first duo to pilot a flight

Further afield Captain Suzy Garrett and her first officer Donna Garrett, soared into the history books as the first mother and daughter pair to pilot a commercial SkyWest Airlines together.

Their story surfaced online and has been trending across several social media platforms. Word has it that Captain Suzy is one of the first woman pilots at SkyWest Airlines and has been flying with the airline for over 30 years.

Talk about a highflying family; the duo hails from a family of pilots with Captain Suzy’s husband Doug being a pilot while their son Mark is building on his flight hours.

First Officer Donna told SkyWest Airlines blog that, “I decided to fly because of my parent’s passion and love for flying…experiencing my mom and dad’s lifestyle was wonderful. It exposed me to possibilities the industry offered. Mom being a commercial pilot normalized it for me. Being exposed to the rest of the world where things hadn’t caught up yet opened my eyes.”

Captain Suzy who used to keep a low profile earlier in her career said, “…today I feel like I can be a role model for young girls who come on board and show them that it is possible. You can be anything!

Donna also pulled out some advice to women who are seeking space in the male dominated industry.

“Don’t ever disqualify yourself or think that there is anything limiting you just because you are a woman. There are so many opportunities to be successful in the industry. Find mentors and meet people who

are doing the same thing.”

4. I tried to kill myself twice: Musician Tiwa Savage opens about painful past

Celebrated Nigerian musician Tiwa Savage has spoken about facing racism in London. In an interview with Black Box by Ebuka, the multi-award winning musician said she relocated to London with her mother at a tender age of 10 years, adding that she was often teased by schoolmates over her complexion and heavy Nigerian accent.

“When I got to school it was horrible and I had an accent. My first day I clearly cannot forget. I got to school very late and my teacher couldn’t pronounce my name. She then asked why I was late to school and I said. Sorry ma, there was a go slow, everyone started laughing. I was teased so badly. They used to call me African girl. Fufu; We heard your food smells bad.”

The celebrity said the teasing was so bad that she not only had police escort her to the bus, but also considered bleaching her skin to fit in.

The situation was dire that on two occasions Savage revealed that she tried to commit suicide. That dark past aside, Savage a mother of one made history by winning Best African Act Award in Spain in 2018. She has won other awards among them The Headies Award for Best Collabo and Nigeria Entertainment Award Best Female Artist in 2014.

5.  ‘Squad members’ celebrate re-election to Congress

Onto the recent held US 2020 Elections, all the four members of Congress Progressive Squad comprising Ayanna Pressley, Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar and Alexandria Ocasio Cortez have been re-elected in the just completed elections.

Omar took to Twitter to celebrate their victory saying, “Our sisterhood is resilient. We are building a movement and this is just the beginning.”

Progressives are working towards transformation of the democratic party by pulling it to the left on issues regarding climate change and health issues. The four house reps who have faced heavy criticism from Republicans for their progressive positions have previously been told by President Donald Trump to go back to their countries.

31 year-old Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (AOC) who represents District 14 easily beat her Republican opponent John Cummings and retained her congressional district seat.

Ilhan Omar, 38, the first American of Somali origin to be elected to Congress on the other hand beat Republican Lacy Johnson in Minnesota’s fifth District after securing 64 per cent of votes against Johnson’s 25 per cent. In 2018, Omar beat Jennifer Zielinski.

Rashida Tlaib, 44, finished ahead of Republican’s David Dudenhoefer. She is the first woman of Palestinian descent to be elected to Congress.

According to MailOnline, Ayanna Pressley 46, who in 2018 became the first woman of colour from Massachusetts to be elected to Congress, defeated independent candidate Roy Owens.

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