Held on September 19, 2026, at the Nkumba University Main Campus, the 2nd Girl Empowerment Conference brought together students, administrators, and civil society leaders under the inspiring theme: “Igniting Her Potential to Lead and Succeed.”
The conference opened with welcoming remarks from the Vice Chancellor of Nkumba University, Prof. Jude T. Lubega, who highlighted the university’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational access, noting that the institution has supported over 20,000 students through full and partial bursaries to ensure they can pursue and complete their education.
Setting a deeply inspiring tone for the event, the conference was graced by the Guest of Honour, the First Deputy Katikkiro of Buganda, Prof. Twaha Kigongo Kaawaase, who attended to represent Her Royal Highness, the Nnabagereka of Buganda. While delivering the Nnaabagereka’s message, Prof. Kaawaase emphasized that investing in girls is a foundational investment in our collective future, stating that an empowered girl today grows to become tomorrow’s teacher, entrepreneur, scientist, professional, leader, and nation-builder. He further underscored that every young woman deserves the environment, protection, and opportunity to dream, learn, and succeed. Delivering specific guidance from HRH on health, relationships, and personal boundaries, Prof. Kaawaase shared the Nnaabagereka’s message urging girls to be conscious of who they allow into their personal space: “Surround yourself with people who respect and celebrate your growth. Learn the difference between love and control. A relationship that asks you to shrink your dreams or abandon your values is not worth keeping.”
Following the opening addresses, the conference featured dynamic panel sessions with exceptional young leaders and changemakers, including Miss Ampurira Mariam (C.E.O, Her Vision Initiative & Lawyer), H.E. Kadondi Gracious (Guild President, Makerere University), H.E. Nasasira Ruth (Guild Governor, Nkumba University Kampala Campus), H.E. Ainembabazi Shillah (President, Uganda National Students Association – UNSA), and Miss Mahoro Rose (Team Leader, Voices for Health and Development).
As an organization deeply committed to community health and youth advocacy, Voices contributed directly to these crucial panel discussions. Representing Voices, Miss Mahoro anchored a critical conversation centered on Public Health, Mental Well-being, Substance Protection, and Holistic Wellness. She addressed vital, ground-level realities shaping young women’s academic and leadership journeys, including acquiring accurate, evidence-based knowledge to safeguard reproductive health, using practical safety protocols when navigating social environments, and recognizing early signs of mental health distress to build emotional resilience. Delivering a deeply resonant message during the session, Miss Mahoro stated, “To every young woman out there: Your potential is huge, but your life, your health, and your peace of mind must always come first because you cannot lead tomorrow if you break today.”
The discussions throughout the conference reinforced a shared belief that empowering young women is not an isolated charity initiative, but a central pillar for building a stronger society. Voices extends its deepest gratitude to Nkumba University, Vice Chancellor Prof. Jude T. Lubega, Guest of Honour Owekitiibwa Prof. Twaha Kigongo Kaawaase, student leaders, fellow panelists, and all partners who made the day a resounding success. The momentum captured during the event continues to drive our daily commitment to ensuring every young woman has the health, knowledge, and support she needs to rise.
