Community Celebration: A Women’s Day Gathering

APR 23 2024

Written By: Abea Pendeza, Furaha Mulenga, and Linda Mlongeca

Translated to English by Linda Mlongeca

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Canopy staff members were graciously invited by clients from the Congolese community to partake in a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day. The event was a lively affair, featuring a rich tapestry of traditional Congolese cuisine, music, and spirited dancing.

As the festivities unfolded, the highlight of the event came from the opening remarks delivered by Abea, which resonated deeply with everyone in attendance:

My greeting to all our guests,

On the occasion of Women’s Day, I welcome all of you ladies and gentlemen. Today, we all gathered here to celebrate international women’s day. First of all, I wish happy Women’s day to all of the beautiful women who are listening to this speech. Every year on March 8th, International Women’s Day is observed to honor the remarkable achievements of women across the globe. From trailblazing leaders to unsung heroes, their contributions have shaped history, transformed societies, and paved the way for progress. 

But today, let us turn our focus to the unsung heroines who walk among us every day: mothers. These nurturing souls, with hearts as vast as the universe, play an irreplaceable role in shaping our families, communities, and the world at large. Mothers often find themselves at the intersection of love and sacrifice. They prioritize their family’s needs, often neglecting their own well-being. But today, I urge every mother to recognize her intrinsic value. Learn new skills, explore interests, and stay curious. By doing so, you not only enrich your own life but also set an example for your children and community.

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Moreover, mother (parent) we need to stand up for our kid’s education and stop early marriage. Many kids in the community dropout of school ending in marriage. Let us stand up for our children’s education. Early marriage need not be their fate. By keeping them in school, we empower them to dream, achieve, and break barriers. To our girls: Dream big, study hard, and reach for the stars. You are the future leaders, scientists, and change-makers.

To Canopy and all supporters, your commitment matters, and we are very grateful. Let’s continue our journey tiger, lighting the path for our children’s education as we celebrate the resilience and strength of women, let us remember that behind every successful woman stands a mother.

Happy Women’s Day!

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