GNBU NATIONAL GIRL SUMMIT 2024- Fostering Lifelong Learning Opportunities for Girls.

The national Girl Summit, which is an annual event that is hosted by Girls Not Brides Uganda brought together different stakeholders, young people, government officials and CSOs that are championing the campaign to end child marriage and ensure girls stay in school and reach their full potential. 

This year’s theme for the Girl Summit ‘fostering lifelong learning opportunities for girls’ resonated deeply with the mission for Girls Not Brides Uganda which is to End Child Marriage and create opportunities for girls to learn, thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities. The event was a platform to empower young people, amplify their voices and advocate for their rights and change since nothing for young people without young people involved. The discussions throughout the summit were around key areas like education, reproductive health and the elimination of harmful practices like child marriage and gender-based violence.

Raising Teenagers Uganda is proud to have partnered with other CSOs that are championing the campaign to end child marriage during this transformative event. One key highlight was a session where our ED Hope Nankunda spoke passionately about the power of storytelling in creating social change. She emphasized that stories have the ability to inspire action, challenge harmful norms and provide hope to those in difficult situations. “Your story is your power, and one story can inspire other young people’’ she told the young people in the room. Stories create a ripple effect; they connect us and remind us that change is possible.” She challenged participants to embrace storytelling as a tool for advocacy and empowerment because one young person sharing their success story represents millions of others. Several young attendees were moved to share their personal journeys, highlighting how education, mentorship and resilience had transformed their lives.

The summit ended with renewed commitment from stakeholders to continue advocating for the rights and well-being of girls. We remain dedicated to creating platforms for young people to share their voices, inspire others and drive meaningful social change.