The Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) and Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU) are thrilled to announce the return of the IMARA Girls Festival for its second edition. Set to take place on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Kati Kati Grounds in Kampala, this annual event promises to be a vibrant celebration of young women’s voices, innovation, and creativity.
Timed to coincide with the International Day of the Girl Child, the festival will shine a spotlight on the theme “Invest In Her, Unleash Her Potential.” It’s a day dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women and girls who are breaking boundaries and challenging stereotypes.
Through various activities, the event aims to inspire and propose actionable solutions to the socio-economic issues that young women face in society today.
A Festival with a Purpose
The IMARA Girls Festival is not just a celebration; it’s a platform for raising awareness and funds for a vital cause. This year’s event will support the establishment of the IMARA Women’s Centre (IWC), an initiative spearheaded by FOWODE. The IWC is envisioned as a hub for advancing women’s rights in Uganda—a space for reflection, learning, networking, and nurturing creativity and innovation among women and girls.
The Centre will also focus on promoting wellness and addressing gender-based violence, while fostering girls’ participation in STEM through incubation hubs and facilities.
What to Expect on October 12th
The festival promises a fun-filled day with activities designed to engage, educate, and entertain:
- Conversational Engagements: Featuring seasoned leaders, mentors, and role models, these sessions will provide valuable insights into the challenges young girls face and offer practical solutions. Distinguished speakers will share their experiences and inspire girls to dream big and pursue their goals.
- Peer Learning Sessions: Workshops led by inspiring youth leaders will cover topics such as Gender-Based Violence, Menstrual Hygiene Management, and restrictive gender norms. These sessions will encourage interactive discussions on strategies to overcome these challenges.
- Exhibitions: Attendees can explore unique products from local small and mid-sized companies, alongside services from civil society organizations, the private sector, and industries such as health, banking, and entrepreneurship.
- Live Performances: The day will be capped with exciting performances by renowned Ugandan artists, adding a celebratory vibe to the event.
