Habiba’s journey of empowerment and advocacy
By Habiba Adoum
Hello everyone, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share with you some of the impactful experiences and initiatives I have been involved in. My name is Habiba, and I’m a 15-year-old Ethiopian Chadian with a deep passion for making a positive change in our community.
One of my most significant endeavors was being part of the conservation and environmental stewardship club (CESC) in Ethiopia at school. Through this club, I actively contributed to various projects aimed at protecting the environment and promoting ecological sustainability. From organizing tree planting drives to raising awareness about waste management, I developed a profound appreciation for the importance of preserving our natural world.
In addition to my environmental efforts, I have had the privilege of participating in numerous debates within the African Union. These discussions revolved around crucial topics such as women's empowerment, the role of women in society, and the emancipation of women in Africa. By engaging in these conversations, I aimed to elevate the voices of women and challenge existing norms, inspiring others to join the cause for gender equality.
Driven by a deep sense of compassion, I have also been actively involved in several charitable organizations. Within these organizations, I have worked tirelessly to support impoverished communities through initiatives such as donation drives and providing essential resources. Through these experiences, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of empathy and collective action.
Furthermore, I am proud to be a part of the "Fly to the World" project, which focuses on promoting financial education for young individuals. Recognizing the challenges faced by women in Chad, particularly regarding their financial independence, I have dedicated myself to empowering my peers with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions. By equipping young women with financial literacy, we can help break the cycle of dependency and foster a sense of autonomy.
Living in Chad, I am acutely aware of the difficulties faced by young girls, including early pregnancy and forced marriages, which hinder their education and personal growth. To address these challenges, I have initiated workshops and awareness campaigns in schools and local communities. By emphasizing the importance of education and knowledge, I believe we can prevent early pregnancies and empower young girls to shape their own destinies.
Looking ahead, my vision is to establish safe spaces for girls, where they can receive support, education, and mentorship. I aim to create platforms for open dialogue and foster a sense of sisterhood among young women, empowering them to challenge societal barriers and pursue their dreams without limitations.
In conclusion, I am deeply committed to creating a brighter future for women in Chad and beyond. Through my experiences and initiatives, I have learned the power of perseverance, empathy, and collective action. I am excited to bring these qualities to Fly to the World and contribute to our shared vision of positive change.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey and aspirations.