One of the hallmarks of our leadership program are the “leadership circles” widows are invited to join. These circles enable the women to encourage and support each other emotionally, spiritually, and financially. Nyanam has organized 358 widows into 12 leadership circles with each group consisting of between 15 to 40 widows. Leadership circles connect widows in a system of collective empowerment and skill development. Participating in these spaces improves emotional and psychosocial well-being, as reported by the involved widows. Each leadership circle implements three activities in their weekly or biweekly meetings including “Voice of Change” study to build their leadership capacity, and other leadership development activities that encourage the widows to develop social change projects within their communities.

Why leadership?

We focus on widows’ leadership because we acknowledge the strength, wisdom and leadership widows already exercise as single mothers in their households and aim to strengthen their knowledge and skills for their benefit, the benefit of their households, and their community. We also recognize the socio-cultural constraints such as gender norms and cultural practices that inhibit the ability of widows to exercise their full potential in leadership and thus work hand-in-hand with the widows to combat oppressive norms.