By Florence Sidi, Programs Assistant

The moment arrived for me to represent She’s the First at the West Africa Adolescent Girls Summit 2024 in Monrovia, Liberia. After days of meticulous preparation to facilitate the What Would You Do? (WWYD?) Card game for both mentors and girls at the event, I finally set foot in Monrovia on the evening of March 24th. Welcomed by the Global Fund for Children Team at the hotel, I was greeted with enthusiasm by several adolescent girls and boys who had eagerly awaited the onset of the summit.

Thrilled to be part of this significant gathering, I looked forward to a week-long event where space was carved out for adolescent girls from West Africa to forge connections, cultivate leadership skills, and collectively advocate for their rights. The overarching goal was clear: to empower adolescent girls with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take control of their lives and realize their full potential. Additionally, the summit aimed to facilitate intergenerational and policy dialogues between adolescents and stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment conducive to meaningful change.

Day 1: A Dawn of Anticipation

The inaugural day of the Adolescent Girls Summit dawned with a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement. Against the backdrop of Liberia's vibrant landscape, more than 150 adolescents from seven West African countries, hailing from diverse backgrounds, converged with hopes and dreams as vast as the horizon. They were eager to connect and learn from one another, igniting the promise of empowerment that filled the air. Opening speeches commenced with the commitment to empowerment, setting the stage for a week of growth and solidarity. Former Vice President of Liberia, Jewel Haward Taylor, and UN representatives delivered inspiring opening remarks, laying the foundation for the transformative journey ahead.

The day also featured moving success stories from participants of the 2022 summit, who shared how the previous event had impacted their lives and empowered them to make significant strides within their schools and communities. It was a reminder of the profound impact such gatherings can have on the lives of adolescent girls. Moreover, it was essential to foster a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive space where all participants could connect and forge enduring relationships that would extend far beyond the summit's conclusion. This commitment to inclusivity laid the groundwork for a week of meaningful engagement and collaboration.

Day 2: Empowering through Play and Training

As day two unfolded, the summit embraced a hands-on approach to empowerment. Mentors gathered for a training session on our What Would You Do? (WWYD?) card game—a tool designed to cultivate critical thinking and decision-making skills for girls. Energized by newfound knowledge, mentors were equipped with skills on how to facilitate impactful sessions with girls using the healthy relationship card game. After the session, they left prepared and optimistic to guide girls through the complexities of adolescence.

Later, the spotlight shifted to the girls themselves as they immersed themselves in the world of WWYD?. Laughter echoed through the hall as they navigated scenarios, fostering dialogue and camaraderie. Through play, barriers dissolved, and confidence blossomed, laying the foundation for empowerment.

Day 3: Workshops of Knowledge and Empowerment

Day three brought a deep dive into critical topics for both genders. Breakout sessions explored the power of social media for advocacy, strategies for managing peer pressure and drug abuse, and navigating the complexities of adolescence among other relevant subjects. Facilitators created nurturing spaces where young people felt comfortable openly discussing various issues, guiding them through the complexities of these topics.

During the menstrual health workshop, I introduced girls to a powerful resource: The Period Diary. This toolkit not only empowers girls to track their menstrual cycles but also serves as a catalyst for candid discussions on reproductive health. As taboos were shattered, a sense of empowerment flourished, lighting the path forward.

Day 4: Empowerment in Action

As the summit reached its peak, the focus shifted to action and unity. The adolescents shared their updated call to action with high-level dignitaries articulating their expectations post-summit. Toward the day's end, I joined adolescent girls and boys for a spirited game of volleyball, while others indulged in swimming, basketball, and a visit to the city. We also had a closing ceremony to mark the end of the fruitful summit.

Reflections: A Week of Empowerment and Growth

The Adolescent Girls Summit in Liberia transcended mere gathering—it was a transformative journey. Throughout the week, girls were equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate adolescence with grace and resilience. From training sessions to empowering workshops and moments of camaraderie, each experience served as a beacon of hope for young women across West Africa. As the summit drew to a close, its legacy of empowerment will continue to inspire and uplift girls, igniting a brighter future for generations to come.