By Our Reporter
Malengo Foundation, a local non-profit organisation propagating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, has honoured women with disabilities who have been outstanding in their communities and excelled in different walks of life. This was during the inaugural Girl 50-50 forum held at Mestil Hotel on Saturday.
The women who were honoured in six categories were selected by a panel of judges following an online nomination process. The recognised individuals are celebrated for having beaten the odds to become successful in different fields including business, fashion, sports and education among others.
Olive Auma, a recipient for Shero award, applauded the initiative noting that “such platforms are good at boosting confidence and self-esteem among persons with disabilities.”
Speaking at the event, Beatrice Guzu, the Executive Secretary National Disability Council and was also the guest of honour, revealed plans to create a disability fund which will promote and empower persons with disabilities to grow their talents and generate their own income.
Meanwhile, the forum was also used to officially launch the Girl 50-50 project. According to Michelle Omamteker, the Executive Director Malengo Foundation, the Girl 50-50 project is an initiative aimed at raising awareness about challenges faced by women with disabilities and also celebrate individuals who have managed to rise up against the odds and succeed in different walks of life.
“The project will involve different activities happening throughout the year that are aimed at empowering women with disabilities,” she noted.
The winners are;
Tigress Honoree
Ms. Elizabeth Mwesigwa – She was a gold medalist at the Para-African Badminton championship in 2018.
Make it Happen Honoree
Mr. Charlie Mujuni – She co-founded the Amputee Support Network Uganda which offers psychological support and empowerment for people dealing with amputations.
Iconic Honoree
Ms. Florence Ndagire – She is the first blind person to qualify and receive licensure as a lawyer in Uganda. She currently works as a legal researcher and Human Rights lawyer at the United Nations.
Stylista Honoree
Ms. Aisha Bahati – She is a blind hairdresser and owns her own salon. She was also crowned Miss Tourism Independent in 2015.
Shero Honoree
Ms. Olive Auma – She is the first ever Miss Albinism in Uganda.
Next Generation Honoree
Ms. Enrika Mijumbi – She was the 2nd Runners Up at the Little Miss Rising Woman and an entrepreneur at just 10 years.