Gender equality is a fundamental human right and is vital for a thriving Africa.

Women representing half of the world population, it is more than necessary to enable them to actively engage in all areas of society. Gender equality supports all the essential foundations for a healthy economy and prosperous nations and is vital to the collective success of Africa against the sustainable development goals.  Achieving gender equality is beneficial for everyone, giving each person equal opportunities at work and in the public sphere.

Launched in 2021 during the Generation Equality Forum, African LeadHers is Speak Up Africa’s flagship program to promote women’s leadership and gender equality across Africa. The program leverages advocacy, storytelling, and partnerships with leaders in culture, sports, fashion, and media to ensure women’s voices are heard and visible in public spaces.

• Fashion show with Tongoro (2021): Used art and culture to inspire women and challenge stereotypes.
• African LeadHers Forum (2022, 2023): Created a pan-African convening platform to strengthen networks of women leaders and ensure inclusive representation. The first edition created a unique space for women leaders from across Africa to share experiences, amplify their voices, and build solidarity around advancing gender equality while the second edition focused on leveraging digital spaces to achieve gender equality, highlighting how online platforms can be powerful tools for advocacy, visibility, and connection.
• “Teaming Up” with BAL4HER (2023–2025): Matched six young African female athletes and sports leaders with senior mentors, combining leadership plans, network-building, and thematic sessions on mental health, gender bias, and storytelling.
• Lingeer art exhibition (2024): Showcased in Dakar and New York, celebrating African women’s heritage and leadership through art.