In August 2024, the Hope Revival Community Outreach Program brought together two Girl Up clubs in Malawi—Girl Up Elevate, founded by Ulemu Felista Makolija, and Girl Up Aspire, founded by Promise Chipeta—in a powerful collaboration aimed at addressing critical issues in Malawi.
The event was held in Lilongwe, with Girl Up Elevate members traveling over 200 miles to work alongside their counterparts from Girl Up Aspire. The program focused on menstrual health education, leadership development, and mental well-being, while promoting gender equality and justice. Partnering with the One-Step Foundation, an organization dedicated to removing children from the streets and providing them with educational opportunities, the initiative reached those who are often marginalized and overlooked.
One of the core focuses of the program was menstrual health education. Many girls in Malawi face stigma and lack of resources that lead to school absences and limited opportunities. To combat this, the program included workshops that debunked myths, provided practical hygiene education, and distributed reusable sanitary pads. Each girl left with a pack of pads and a better understanding of how to manage their menstrual health confidently and with dignity.
Leadership development was another major component of the program. Sessions focused on what it means
to lead with empathy, confidence, and vision. Facilitators encouraged participants to reflect on how they could become leaders in their homes, schools, and communities. This session aimed to inspire a new generation of changemakers who could contribute to the fight for gender equality.
Mental health workshops addressed an often-overlooked topic. Participants discussed emotional challenges and learned practical coping strategies. For many, this was the first time they had the opportunity to speak openly about mental health, a step toward breaking the silence around these issues in the community.
The program’s partnership with the One-Step Foundation extended its reach to children who had faced immense hardship, including life on the streets. These children received notebooks, hygiene kits, and snacks, but more importantly, they experienced a sense of belonging and support. For them, the event was a rare opportunity to feel valued and included. “This event showed us that we matter,” shared one participant.
“It wasn’t just about giving us
things—it was about showing us we are seen and cared for.”
The day began with a warm welcome and icebreaker activities, creating an atmosphere of inclusion and engagement. Despite early challenges—such as last-minute venue adjustments and resource shortages—the teams adapted and maintained the program’s flow. Icebreakers led to lively discussions in workshops, where participants actively engaged, asked questions, and shared their perspectives.
Feedback from participants highlighted the program’s success. Many girls expressed gratitude for the reusable pads, noting how they would make attending school easier. Others shared how the leadership and mental health sessions gave them tools they could use in their daily lives. The smiles, hugs, and lingering conversations at the end of the day reflected the deep connections made. Participants left not only with resources but also with a sense of empowerment and belonging.
The Hope Revival Community Outreach Program demonstrated the power of collaboration and commitment to a shared cause. It was a reminder that progress in gender equality and justice requires action, education, and consistent support for those who need it most.
Girl Up Elevate and Girl Up Aspire are determined to build on this momentum. They believe that every girl deserves access to education, health resources, and opportunities to lead. They call on individuals, organizations, and communities to join their mission to dismantle barriers and create a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality.
