Young Women in Democracy Forum Holds First Bi-Yearly Reflection and Strategy Meeting

Young Women in Democracy Forum Holds First Bi-Yearly Reflection and Strategy Meeting

Freetown, Sierra Leone – March 1, 2025 – The Young Women in Democracy Forum (YWDF) successfully hosted its first Bi-Yearly Reflection and Strategy Meeting at Vanilla Complex, Aberdeen, bringing together 50 executive members from across Sierra Leone. The meeting, held under the Building Young Feminist Leaders Capacity for Democracy Deepening and Accountability project, focused on strengthening the network’s strategic direction, mobilization efforts, and advocacy for women’s participation in governance.

Key discussions included progress updates on the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF)-supported project, reports from district coordinators, and deliberations on network sustainability. Members also reviewed and unanimously adopted the YWDF Strategic Plan 2025-2030, which outlines the organization’s mission, priorities, and strategies for empowering young women to take active roles in democratic governance.

A major highlight of the meeting was an inspiring session on “Personal Stories and Overcoming Barriers to Young Feminist Activism,” facilitated by Mrs. Marcella Samba-Sesay, Executive Director of Campaign for Good Governance (CGG). Young women shared powerful testimonies of resilience, leadership, and advocacy, reinforcing the importance of positioning women in decision-making spaces.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to increasing network solidarity, enhancing civic participation, and strengthening YWDF’s presence in democracy-building efforts nationwide. Key action points include district-level feedback sessions, media engagements, and targeted advocacy to challenge restrictive social norms.

The Young Women in Democracy Forum remains committed to championing the voices of young women in governance, ensuring their meaningful participation in shaping the future of Sierra Leone’s democracy.