Shared experiences in Women in Research Leadership Development, Kigali-Rwanda

Wangari’s Story. Attending the CIFAR Women in Leadership Development Symposium in Kigali in January 2025 was a transformative experience. The COACh Global workshops combined self-reflection, practical tools, and peer learning. Sessions on influential leadership, gendered dynamics in academia, and the MTAWA mentorship model were especially impactful, highlighting the importance of supportive and aspirational networks. I refined my five-year strategic plan, aligning personal and professional goals, and developed tailored elevator pitches for various settings.

The symposium provided a safe, empowering space to learn from mentors, reflect on leadership, and embrace the three V’s—Visibility, Viability, and Valuability. I left feeling confident, energized, and committed to advocating for myself and other women in science. I’m deeply grateful to MTAWA for the nomination and to all the facilitators for their generosity. I carry forward the lessons learned with purpose and passion, along with the friendships and connections formed during this life-changing opportunity.

JELIOTH’S STORY

“​I raise my voice not to shout, but so others may be heard.” — Anita Roddick

This quote has echoed in my mind for years, but it truly came to life during the Women in Research Leadership Development Symposium in Kigali, Rwanda. Organized by CIFAR in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, this transformative three-day gathering united brilliant researchers and changemakers from across the globe. As a Master’s graduate aspiring to pursue a PhD, I felt deeply inspired and empowered by the facilitators and participants—many of whom are trailblazers in academia and policy. Engaging with leaders such as Prof. Gitau, Prof. Muhoro, and Wangari—whom I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with through the Mentoring Network for African Women in Academia (MTAWA)—was profoundly meaningful. I am sincerely grateful to CIFAR, the Mastercard Foundation, COACh Global Scientists and Engineers, my mentor Dr. Okomo, and MTAWA. I left Kigali with a renewed sense of purpose: to raise my voice boldly—not only for myself, but for those still waiting to be heard.

Attending the CIFAR Women in Leadership Development Symposium in Kigali in January 2025 was a transformative experience. The COACh Global workshops combined self-reflection, practical tools, and peer learning. Sessions on influential leadership, gendered dynamics in academia, and the MTAWA mentorship model were especially impactful, highlighting the importance of supportive and aspirational networks. I refined my five-year strategic plan, aligning personal and professional goals, and developed tailored elevator pitches for various settings. The symposium provided a safe, empowering space to learn from mentors, reflect on leadership, and embrace the three V’s—Visibility, Viability, and Valuability. I left feeling confident, energized, and committed to advocating for myself and other women in science. I’m deeply grateful to MTAWA for the nomination and to all the facilitators for their generosity. I carry forward the lessons learned with purpose and passion, along with the friendships and connections formed during this life-changing opportunity.

“​I raise my voice not to shout, but so others may be heard.” — Anita Roddick

This quote has echoed in my mind for years, but it truly came to life during the Women in Research Leadership Development Symposium in Kigali, Rwanda. Organised by CIFAR in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, this transformative three-day gathering united brilliant researchers and changemakers from across the globe. As a Master’s graduate aspiring to pursue a PhD, I felt deeply inspired and empowered by the facilitators and participants—many of whom are trailblazers in academia and policy. Engaging with leaders such as Prof. Gitau, Prof. Muhoro, and Wangari—whom I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with through the Mentoring Network for African Women in Academia (MTAWA)—was profoundly meaningful. I am sincerely grateful to CIFAR, the Mastercard Foundation, COACh Global Scientists and Engineers, my mentor Dr. Okomo, and MTAWA. I left Kigali with a renewed sense of purpose: to raise my voice boldly—not only for myself, but for those still waiting to be heard.