HM

“I have learned that I am still a powerful woman, and my story has positively touched and given hope to many women.”

When did you come to Canada? 
I came to Canada 7 months ago

Where did you come from? I came from Kenya, Africa

Why did you come to Canada?
My life was in danger back home

Why were you interested in joining the S2S program?
I strongly felt that I belonged and identified with the group because back home, I worked with a non-profit organization, that focused on women empowerment, leadership & governance, education, and capacity building. Therefore, I wanted to be part of women leadership in Canada. I believe women's issues are very similar all over the world.

What is the most significant thing you have learned about yourself since being a Sister?
I have learned that I am still a powerful woman, and my story has positively touched and given hope to many women. I still have room for growth and much more to learn as I continue on this journey of being a leader. My life is changing positively in that it has given me hope and energy to continue being a leader to other women within my community here.

Please finish these two sentences with one word that describes how you are feeling: 
Before the program, I was uncomfortable. After the program, I am confident.

What did you appreciate the most about the program?
That is was a safe place to share our personal stories

What is your favourite memory from the program?
The first time I shared part of my personal story, which led to my migration to Canada and most of the women told me how inspired my story made them feel.

What did you learn about gender-based violence? 
That we, as women, together, can help alleviate to a great extend, GBV, through raising our voices to the right people and pushing for change in legislation that supports the fight against GBV.

What does it mean to you to be a good leader? How has the Sister2Sister program helped you develop that skill or outlook? 
To me, being a good leader means listening and understanding other people’s personal stories and empowering them, pushing for change by speaking up and/or raising your voice to the relevant authorities. It also means offering training & building capacity to those who need it, at the same time helping people understand how compelling their individual stories are.

What is your one piece of advice to future Sister2Sister members? 
Try as much as you can to share your personal story; it’s your one way of healing

Check out HM’s PhotoVoice project that celebrates the small gestures we make that can have a huge impact.