By Ruth Dabo
The Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) has officially unveiled a mentorship programme aimed at training and empowering women with disabilities to become community leaders and advocates in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the Executive Director of AWWDI, Mrs. Patience Dickson, congratulated the selected mentors and mentees, urging them to take the opportunity seriously and remain committed throughout the programme.
Mrs. Dickson emphasized the importance of patience, dedication, and strong mentorship relationships, noting that participants stand to gain extensive knowledge and experience. She encouraged the mentors to guide their mentees effectively and expressed hope that the new generation of leaders would surpass their predecessors.
“If you are privileged to have mentors, you must be patient and ready to learn. Our wish is that those coming behind us will become better than us and move the work forward,” she said.
She explained that the initiative is designed to train local female leaders, particularly women with disabilities, and connect them with experienced mentors who will guide them in advocacy, leadership, and community engagement. According to her, the organisation will closely monitor progress to ensure that both mentors and mentees achieve meaningful outcomes.
Mrs. Dickson noted that the mentorship programme is critical to sustaining advocacy efforts for women with disabilities, especially as older advocates gradually step aside for a new generation.
“As a community, we must begin to raise and prepare our own. We are not going to be here forever. We need young women with disabilities who are confident, knowledgeable, and ready to continue the work,” she stated.
She added that the programme would also expose participants to current trends and evolving issues affecting women with disabilities, enabling them to respond effectively in today’s fast-changing environment.
On the expected outcomes, the AWWDI Executive Director said the initiative aims to mentor a specific number of women with disabilities, equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills, and empower them to become strong advocates within their communities.
Approximately 150 women with disabilities across three Area Councils of the FCT, AMAC, Kuje, and Bwari are participating in the pilot phase of the programme, with about 50 beneficiaries selected from each council.
Mrs. Dickson expressed appreciation to the African Women’s Development Fund for supporting the project, describing their contribution as instrumental to the programme’s success.
One of the beneficiaries, Miss Okeia Precious, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing the training as a pathway to personal growth and advocacy.
“As a woman with disability, we face many challenges, and our voices are often not heard. My hope is to become better, to speak for my rights and for others with disabilities,” she said.
Sharing her personal story, Miss Precious revealed that she acquired her disability due to a medical complication and initially struggled with self-acceptance. However, she said self-awareness and determination helped her regain confidence and pursue her education.
“If you don’t value yourself, people will not value you. Don’t give up on yourself. When you stand up for yourself, people will respect you and see beyond your disability,” she advised other persons with disabilities.
The event marked a significant milestone for AWWDI as it continues its efforts to strengthen leadership, build self-confidence, and promote inclusion for women with disabilities across the FCT.
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