Mercy’s path to becoming an advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) began in 2018, in a classroom that would shape her future in ways she never anticipated. “I joined an automotive class in early 2019, a class of 50 people which was male-dominated,” Mercy recalls. The absence of female peers was stark, and the message she received was even starker: “I was told that the course was not meant for women.”

But where others saw barriers, Mercy saw an opportunity. “My curiosity drove me to pursue automotive engineering,” she says. “I wanted to understand how cars work.”

However, Mercy’s journey from a curious student to a skilled engineer was far from smooth. After graduating with a diploma in Automotive Engineering, she faced a harsh reality that many women in STEM fields encounter: “Three years after graduating, I am jobless. Unable to secure an internship or employment opportunities on the basis that I am a woman!”

The statistics Mercy cites are sobering. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in 2023, women make up only 28% of the STEM workforce. In Kenya’s automotive sector, the picture is even bleaker. “Each year, TVET institutions in Kenya release over 500 young women with Automotive skills into the marketplace,” Mercy explains. “With this number of skilled women in the marketplace, 80% end up without access to internship and employment opportunities.”

These numbers aren’t just statistics for Mercy; they represent shattered dreams and untapped potential. “I am a representation of women in engineering, whose dreams have been shattered due to lack of opportunities,” she says.

But Mercy Mwende is not one to accept defeat. Instead, she’s channeling her experiences into a powerful advocacy campaign. Her petition, targeting key players such as Toyota Kenya, the Public Service Commission, and Isuzu Kenya, calls for a 30% increase in internship and employment opportunities for women in Automotive Engineering.

“They are at the forefront of decision-making in the automotive industry,” Mercy explains her choice of targets. “They have a lot of influence in decision-making.”

Mercy’s vision extends beyond just increasing numbers. She sees a future where women not only enter the field but thrive in it. “If we succeed, we’ll reduce the rate of unemployment,” she says. “More women will take up engineering and mentorship. It provides a platform to actualize the 50% rule.”

Her advocacy work has opened doors and expanded her network, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. “Advocacy does take a lot from you,” Mercy admits. She’s even faced rejection from unexpected quarters, recalling an incident where a woman manager at a garage saw her as a liability because of her gender. “The same gender you are fighting for might not see the vision that you have for your field,” she reflects.

Despite these setbacks, Mercy remains undaunted. Her message to young women considering a career in automotive engineering is both realistic and inspiring: “There will always be obstacles in any field. STEM fields do harden you,” she advises. “Learn to stand your ground. Find a balance. Have the focus on your mind.”

As Mercy Mwende continues her fight for gender equality in Kenya’s automotive industry, she embodies the change she wishes to see. Her petition, her advocacy, and her unwavering determination are not just about securing jobs; they’re about reimagining an entire industry.

“I believe that the Engineering sector needs women in it,” Mercy states. In a world where cars are still predominantly designed, built, and repaired by men, Mercy Mwende is not just opening doors; she’s rebuilding the entire garage. And in doing so, she’s paving the way for a new generation of women to drive change in Kenya’s automotive industry.

The post How Mercy Mwende is Revving Up the Male-Dominated Auto Industry appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Amondi’s journey into mental health advocacy began in the quiet corners of her childhood home. “I grew up a silent child,” she recalls. “‘Usikue na kiherere’ (don’t be talkative), ‘nyamaza utaskia vizuri’ (keep quiet and you’ll feel better).” These well-intentioned but misguided admonitions laid the foundation for years of emotional suppression.

The true test of Amondi’s resilience came after secondary school when financial constraints shattered her dreams of a university education. “The family couldn’t afford to pay for my fees due to our financial situation, which affected me mentally,” she shares. “The whole situation took a toll on me; I got depressed.”

In a society where mental health was rarely discussed, Amondi found herself adrift in a sea of despair with no lifeline in sight. “At that time, no one talked about mental health, and I didn’t have support,” she says, the pain of those isolated years still evident in her voice.

It wasn’t until 2023, six years after her initial struggle, that Amondi found the courage to reach out to a mental health toll-free number. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in her journey and ignited a passion to ensure that others wouldn’t have to suffer in silence as she did.

Today, Amondi stands at the forefront of a movement, her petition to the Ministry of Health a rallying cry for change. She’s calling for a 20% increase in the mental health budget and the establishment of free mental health programs in schools and public hospitals across Kenya.

Her urgency is fueled by a series of tragic events that have rocked the nation: a young mother killing her child, university students taking their own lives, and even children as young as nine turning to substance abuse.

The roots of this crisis, Amondi believes, run deep into the fabric of Kenyan society. “Youth make their decisions due to the stigma they get from poverty, with no healthy environment to speak out,” she explains. The pressures are manifold: economic uncertainty, rising unemployment, societal expectations, and a pervasive identity crisis among the young.

But Amondi’s vision for change is as comprehensive as the problems are complex. She envisions youth-friendly, affordable, and 24/7 mental health services. “We need to place therapists in youth resource centers, and they have to be consistent,” she asserts. “We need professional counselors in schools, and teachers trained to handle mental health issues.”

Her approach is holistic, recognizing that true change requires a shift in both policy and culture. “Don’t talk for the sake of talking,” she advises schools looking to create safe spaces for mental health discussions.

As her petition gains traction – already garnering over 1,000 signatures – Amondi’s message to those still struggling in silence is simple and profound: “It gets better when you write things down. Writing saved my life.”

Amondi Awour’s journey from a silent child to a vocal advocate is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a beacon of hope for Kenya’s youth. Her petition is not just a document; it’s a promise of a future where no young person has to face their demons alone.

“Our youths are the future of our nation; they are our pride and vision for a prosperous country,” Amondi declares. “They deserve to be heard and given an environment that does not discriminate against their mental health status when they seek help.”

As Kenya grapples with rising mental health challenges, Amondi Awour stands as a beacon to the power of breaking silence, seeking help, and fighting for change. Her voice, once suppressed, now echoes with the hopes of a generation, calling for a Kenya where mental health support is not a luxury, but a right accessible to all.

The post Breaking the Silence: Amondi Awour’s Fight for Youth Mental Health in Kenya appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

Personal Journey Rooted in Tragedy

Peter Luya’s commitment to widows’ rights stems from a deeply personal experience. On December 2, 1998, he tragically lost his father in a road accident in Nairobi. Peter, then just 10 years old, witnessed his family being torn apart as his mother and siblings faced severe discrimination and disinheritance from their relatives. Despite her Christian faith, which opposed traditional demands, his mother succumbed to societal pressures, leading to a devastating loss of property and dignity. Eventually, this pressure pushed his mother towards alcohol addiction and an untimely death, leaving Peter and his siblings to fend for themselves.

Challenges Widows Face in Kenya

In Kenya, widows encounter a myriad of cultural and legal challenges that exacerbate their vulnerability. Cultural norms often lead to disinheritance, forced widow inheritance, and severe gender-based violence. Discriminatory customary laws favor male relatives, depriving widows of their rightful inheritance. Moreover, societal attitudes perpetuate the marginalization of widows, viewing them as harbingers of bad luck or responsible for their husbands’ deaths.

The Petition for Change

Peter Luya’s petition on Change.org seeks to address these injustices through three main objectives:

1. Strengthening Legal Protections: The petition advocates for the enhancement of laws to secure widows’ rights to inheritance and property ownership, addressing gaps in current legislation.

2. Challenging Harmful Cultural Norms: By promoting awareness and changing societal attitudes, the petition aims to dismantle discriminatory practices against widows.
3. Promoting Gender Equality: The petition encourages broader initiatives to empower women and address the root causes of widowhood vulnerability.

Effective Strategies for Change

To bring about meaningful change, Peter emphasizes the need for:

• Policy Reviews and Legal Reforms: Strengthening laws to protect widows’ rights.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Challenging harmful cultural norms and stereotypes.
• Community Organization: Promoting equality campaigns and rights advocacy.
• Access to Justice:Ensuring widows have access to legal aid and pro bono services.
• National Research: Conducting studies to inform policy adjustments.

The Role of Nguvu Collective

Nguvu Collective has been instrumental in Peter’s advocacy efforts, providing capacity-building sessions and linking him with like-minded partners. They support meetings and campaigns to promote widows’ rights and drive policy changes. Their resources and technical support have been crucial in amplifying marginalized voices and ensuring the implementation of legislative acts such as the Matrimonial Property Act of 2013.

Community and Government Responses

While the response to Peter’s petition has been mixed, he remains undeterred. He acknowledges the community’s normalization of widows’ challenges but highlights positive support from organizations like Nguvu Collective and Tembea Futures Institute. Peter continues to engage with government officials and fellow advocates to push for necessary reforms.

Building Resilient Futures for Widows

To create more resilient futures for widows, Peter emphasizes the importance of:

• Legal Protection: Ensuring robust legal frameworks to safeguard widows’ rights.
• Financial Inclusion: Providing access to financial services and training.
• Healthcare Services: Including mental health support.
• Community Support Networks: Establishing social safety nets.
• Education and Child Protection: Supporting widows’ children through education and psychosocial support.

What’s Ahead?

Peter Luya’s advocacy extends beyond the International Day of Families. He seeks to build partnerships with individuals and organizations committed to supporting widows, using his personal experiences to drive his campaign. His ultimate goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for widows, ensuring they are respected and their rights protected.

By sharing his story and relentless efforts, Peter Luya inspires hope and change for widows across Kenya. His journey underscores the importance of advocacy, legal reform, and community support in overcoming systemic injustices.

The post Championing Change: Peter Luya’s Fight for Widows’ Rights appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.