A personal symbol.
Stay with the image for a moment. What does it bring to mind?
THE PERSON BEHIND THE PORTRAIT
In her own words
For over 10 years, I have been the director of 100% for the Children, where we work with vulnerable and marginalized children and youth in Ghana and Kenya in relation to: 1) Access to education; 2) Child protection; and 3) Reproductive health for young women in the Global South. Background: Street children cannot go home and close the door behind them. They live with a premise that most of us are liberated from: always being the target of others’ eyes. Yet they are rarely ‘seen’ or heard. Children and young people living on the streets, in markets, at a bus station, in a landfill and in simple shacks are poor, many of them have only the most basic or no schooling, the majority have lost at least one parent or have been kicked out of their homes. But the vast majority see themselves as capable people with resources, skills, ambitions and strong values. They don’t see themselves as helpless victims, even though they are often portrayed as such. I want 100% for the Children to help change the limiting and preconceived narrative about children and young people in marginalized situations and show them as they see themselves and as they would like the world to see them and acknowledge them. Message: To me, an inclusive narrative is an essential foundation for a society where all voices and perspectives are valued and respected. As it recognizes that diversity in all its forms – such as cultural background, age, gender, sexual orientation and experiences – enriches our society and allows us to learn from each other. It’s about creating a shared narrative that is inclusive and allows for a wide range of experiences and viewpoints. The voices of children and young people are particularly important as they are the leaders and decision-makers of the future. Including children and young people in the conversation and decision-making processes ensures that their perspectives, needs and concerns are taken into account. This not only creates a more equitable and inclusive future, but also a stronger intergenerational cohesion.
