Young girls advised against seeking external validation
Kayunga Road – Students at Mt. Horeb International School celebrated an early Women’s Day event that left young female attendees inspired and empowered under the theme “I Will Flourish.” The special gathering at this modest yet internationally-minded institution, which follows the ACE Curriculum, offered much more than typical classroom learning.
Under the shade of trees protecting them from the midday sun, female students took center stage in a series of activities designed to showcase their talents and build confidence. The event began with a service where the girls demonstrated impressive skills in videography and online streaming technology, creating their own narratives and broadcasting them to the world—effectively telling their stories while establishing their mark for themselves and posterity.
The day’s highlight featured a compelling panel discussion led by Ms. Ann Kyokusima, an accomplished international sign language interpreter whose work with people with disabilities spans the globe. Through her personal journey, Ms. Anne not only brought the world of the disabled into focus but demonstrated to the young attendees that it’s possible to make a meaningful global impact through inspiration and hope.
A central message of the discussion centered on self-worth beyond external validation. “Your self-worth is rooted in your identity as children of God, not in external validation,” Ms. Anne emphasized, speaking at length about the dangers of seeking validation through inappropriate behavior on social media. She warned students that content posted online is permanent and could potentially affect future opportunities.
“Whatever is put on the worldwide web is never erased and may stand between you and an opportunity one day,” she cautioned.
The young women were encouraged to learn from those who have traveled similar paths before them. “From them, you can always get wisdom and guidance,” Ms. Anne remarked during the discussion.
Acknowledging the challenges of succeeding in male-dominated fields, the panel advised students to work diligently and let their efforts speak for themselves—an approach they noted would honor their faith in Jesus Christ and Christian values. This message of hope and resilience resonated strongly with attendees: no matter one’s beginnings, life can improve through determination and hard work.
The post-service session addressed common misconceptions about feminism, creating an open dialogue for students to ask questions and learn from experienced women. “Feminism isn’t about being anti-men; it’s about working with men,” speakers emphasized during this educational segment.
Following the serious discussions, the event concluded with a lighter atmosphere as students asked questions, shared experiences, and enjoyed moments of laughter.
As the gathering came to a close, attendees departed with visible enthusiasm, empowered by the day’s messages and ready to make their mark on the world. The impact of this special celebration suggests these young women are well-positioned to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
Ms.Racheal Wannyana, who is part of the administration told us that the girls shared about their experiences as girls at a young age, the challenges they faced and how the overcome them, how they’ve been able to excel, breaking stereotypes and societal expectations to be become the women they are today.
Credit: Ms. Edith F.S. Namusoke, Ms. Claire Bugunya