In a country where young women often face systemic barriers to leadership and
opportunity, EVE Organization for Women Development is changing the narrative one
leader at a time.
Now in its 5th edition, the Young Women Leadership Program (YWLP) has become a
cornerstone initiative under EVE’s broader strategy to promote the Women, Peace, and
Security (WPS) agenda, advance gender equality, and create space for girls in
leadership positions. The program aims to provide young women with a strong
foundation in advocacy, technical skills, and leadership development, empowering them
to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
This year, a new cohort of 10 vibrant young women graduates has embarked on a
journey of transformation through EVE’s Young Women Leadership Program (YWLP)
2025, a flagship initiative that bridges the gap between academic achievement and real-
world community impact.
Selected from a competitive pool of over 330 applicants, these young women emerged
through a rigorous multi-phase selection process that included written assessments and
oral interviews. The final cohort represents diverse disciplines from mass
communication and social work to biomedical technology and finance but they are
united by a common goal: to lead, serve, and uplift their communities.
“This is not just a training program,” said Kiko Evaline, a Mass Communication graduate
from Uganda Christian University and one of the selected volunteers. “It is a launching
pad for women who are ready to take action. I now understand how storytelling can be
used to challenge stigma, advocate for change, and shift the narrative for survivors and
marginalized women.”
To prepare them for field deployment, EVE organized a five-day intensive training
facilitated by experts in gender equality, leadership, safeguarding, mental health, cyber
security, and advocacy. The sessions were more than educational they were empowering.
Through interactive learning, the volunteers gained practical tools to
engage, confront gender-based violence (GBV), advocate for women’s rights and
promote women’s leadership from the grassroots.
“This experience has opened my eyes to the power of financial independence,” said
Naima Justice, a Finance graduate from Makerere University. “I’m passionate about
helping women manage their resources and build sustainable livelihoods. With the skills
I’ve gained here in this training, I can now support economic justice in my community.”
Among the cohort is also Abour Hellen Athieu, a Biomedical Technician graduate from
Makerere University, whose passion for public health drives her commitment to
women’s wellbeing.
“As a biomedical technician, I understand the intersection between healthcare and
women’s rights,” she said. “This program has empowered me to advocate not just for
medical access, but for safe, informed, and dignified care for women. I’m eager to
integrate health education into community outreach.”
Now deployed across EVE’s partner organizations, these volunteers are actively
engaging in wide range of activities including storytelling, awareness campaigns,
managing finances and survivor support.
“With this knowledge, I will raise awareness on GBV and women’s rights,” added Abio
Rhoda Bridget, a participant and social worker graduate from Kyambogo University.
“This training has given me the confidence to lead and I now feel equipped with the
skills and knowledge to advocate for survivors and challenge harmful norms in my
community.”
The Young Women Leadership Program, funded by Leaders of Peace, continues to
nurture socially conscious, empowered women leaders who are not only transforming
their own lives but are also paving the way for a more inclusive and peaceful South
Sudan.
This program is more than just a placement it’s a pipeline. It equips young women with
the confidence, skills, and mentorship they need to emerge as the next generation of
change makers, advocates, and community leaders.
As the 5th edition unfolds, EVE remains committed to providing mentorship, visibility,
and strategic support, ensuring each young woman not only survives but thrives as a
leader and advocate for gender equality and peace.
