Imagine a sunny Saturday morning in Kampala, the lively Kati Kati Grounds buzzing with excitement as young women, mentors, and leaders gather to celebrate girlhood, dreams, and potential. This October 12th, 2024, the grounds will be filled with hope, determination, and a vision for a brighter future, as the IMARA Girls Festival returns for its second edition.
Hosted by the Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWODE) and Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU), the IMARA Girls Festival is more than just an event—it’s a movement. A movement that recognizes the brilliance, resilience, and creativity of young women across Uganda and beyond. This year’s theme, *“Invest in Her, Unleash Her Potential,”* is a call to action, urging everyone to recognize the transformative power of investing in girls and their futures.
Last year’s festival left an indelible mark, but this year promises to be even bigger. Girls from different regions, schools, and communities will come together, not just to celebrate their achievements, but to dream, learn, and grow in an environment that encourages them to be bold and fearless.
One of the most exciting aspects of this festival is its purpose: to help lay the foundation for the IMARA Women’s Centre (IWC), a new initiative by FOWODE. The Centre, set to be built in Kasangati, will be a sanctuary for women and girls—offering a space where they can heal, learn, organize, and fight for gender equality. Imagine a place where girls can explore their creativity, pursue innovation, and learn how to be leaders in their communities. That’s what the IWC aims to be—a hub for growth and empowerment.
**So what can festival-goers expect this year?**
The day will be packed with activities that will inspire and entertain. From workshops to panel discussions, everyone attending will have the opportunity to dive deep into real issues that girls face today. And it’s not just talk—there will be actionable strategies and practical solutions shared by some of the most passionate advocates for women’s rights.
One of the highlights of the festival is the *Conversational Engagements*—inspiring sessions where seasoned leaders, mentors, and role models will sit down with attendees to share their personal journeys. You’ll hear about the obstacles they’ve overcome, the lessons they’ve learned, and their advice on how to navigate the challenges of being a girl in a society that often sets limits on them. These conversations are about empowering young women to believe in their own potential and to dare to dream beyond what society tells them is possible.
But that’s not all. Young women attending the festival will also have the chance to participate in *Peer Learning Sessions*, led by inspiring youth leaders who have faced many of the same struggles. Topics like Gender-Based Violence and Menstrual Hygiene Management will be covered in an open and supportive environment, with real solutions offered for how to address these often-taboo subjects.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a celebration without a bit of flair. The festival will host an exhibition of unique products from local businesses, civil society organizations, and industries such as health, banking, and entrepreneurship. It’s an opportunity to support local enterprise while also learning about the services available to help uplift women and girls.
Then there are the performances—because what’s a celebration without music? Some of Uganda’s most talented artists will take to the stage, bringing energy and excitement to what promises to be an unforgettable day.
At its core, the IMARA Girls Festival is about community. It’s about coming together to support and uplift the aspirations of young women. FOWODE and RAHU believe that when we invest in girls—when we encourage their creativity, support their education, and stand beside them as they step into leadership roles—we are investing in the future of our communities.
So, as October 12th approaches, the invitation is wide open. Everyone—from young women and girls, to families, friends, policymakers, and civil society organizations—is welcome to be part of this movement. It’s a free event, but its impact will be priceless. Every conversation, every exhibition, every donation and sponsorship will help pave the way for the IMARA Women’s Centre, a place where the dreams and potential of Uganda’s women and girls can truly flourish.
If you believe in the power of girls—if you believe that when we invest in them, we unleash a force that can change the world—then this is your festival. Come celebrate. Come support. Come be a part of a future that is equal, safe, and full of possibilities.
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