Angie Murimirwa on the transformative power of education
A Podcast of One's Own with Julia Gillard
Deep Dive
What was Angie Murimirwa's childhood like in Zimbabwe?
Angie grew up in a family of subsistence farmers who struggled to produce enough food for the family. Her family often lacked basic necessities, including school supplies, and she had to work for her primary school teachers to get exercise books. She also faced humiliation, such as hiding in the bathroom when officials came to collect unpaid school levies.
How did CAMFED change Angie's life?
CAMFED provided Angie with the resources she needed to attend secondary school, including uniforms, shoes, stationery, and menstrual products. This support allowed her to focus on her education without fear or shame, transforming her life and enabling her to become the CEO of CAMFED.
What is the significance of the CAMFED Alumni Association (CAMA)?
The CAMFED Alumni Association, now over 279,000 members strong, is a network of women leaders across Africa who support each other and give back to their communities. On average, each member supports at least three other girls financially and provides mentorship to 25 children, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and education.
Why does CAMFED focus specifically on girls' education?
CAMFED focuses on girls' education because in the communities they work in, only 5% of girls from marginalized families complete secondary school. By addressing the systemic disadvantages girls face, CAMFED creates solutions that can benefit all children, including boys, ensuring justice and equity in education.
What is the impact of supporting one girl through CAMFED?
Supporting one girl through CAMFED costs $150 per year and has a multiplier effect. Each girl supported by CAMFED goes on to financially support at least three other girls annually and mentors 25 children, creating a perpetual cycle of education and empowerment.
What are CAMFED's future goals?
CAMFED aims to support an additional 5 million girls in the next six years, building on the 7 million girls already supported. They are also working with governments to scale their successful models, such as the Learner Guide program, to ensure more children, including boys, can complete their education.
How did Angie overcome survivor's guilt during her education?
Angie struggled with survivor's guilt, feeling the weight of her family's sacrifices and the opportunities denied to her peers. A teacher's reassurance that she belonged in school and the support of her CAMFED peers helped her overcome this guilt and embrace her potential.
What role does community play in CAMFED's success?
Communities play a crucial role in CAMFED's success by selecting girls for support and celebrating their achievements. When communities see girls they supported become lawyers, doctors, or leaders, they rally around the program, creating a transformative impact that benefits everyone.
How can individuals support CAMFED's mission?
Individuals can support CAMFED by educating themselves about the importance of girls' education, donating as little as $150 to support a girl's secondary education for a year, and spreading awareness about CAMFED's work. Donations have a multiplier effect, as each girl supported goes on to help others.
What is the Learner Guide program, and how does it work?
The Learner Guide program trains young women who have graduated from CAMFED-supported schools to return to their former schools as mentors. They accompany students, helping them navigate the education system and stay in school. This program is being adopted by governments to benefit all children.
Shownotes Transcript