A Research Associate and an Advocate for Gender Equality and Development at YAPORH Takes the Helm of the SADC Youth Parliament
| Lilongwe, June 25, 2023 Patience Munyenyembe, a passionate advocate for gender inclusiveness and development, has been selected as the Speaker of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Youth Parliament. At the age of 27, Munyenyembe assumes the significant responsibility of representing Malawian youths, as well as those in the region and beyond. Munyenyembe’s appointment comes after her tenure as the Malawian representative in the SADC Youth Parliament since June 2020. The regional policy advocacy and engagement arm, coordinated by the Southern Africa Youth Forum and other stakeholders, released a call for nominations from young people residing in any of the SADC member states. Munyenyembe’s exceptional dedication and leadership qualities led to her selection as the country’s representative. In her new role as Speaker, Munyenyembe plans to engage with policymakers, including parliamentarians, ministers, national youth councils, youth organizations, Pan-African organizations, and regional and international entities. Her objective is to influence the development and implementation of legislation, as well as national, regional, and international practices that promote youth inclusion and participation. Munyenyembe, a recipient of the Young African Women Leads 2023 Award, is a committed advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment. She is actively involved in various organizations, including the Young African Leaders Initiative Regional Leadership Centre (Yali RLC), where she is an alumna. She also holds the position of Vice Secretary at the Yali Alumni Association of Malawi and serves as Secretary for the International Republican Institute’s Generation Democracy, Malawi Chapter. Additionally, she is the Director of Advocacy for the Young Feminists Network and the Director of Gender and Women’s Affairs at the Africa-Asia Youth Foundation. |
| Her role at YAPORH As a Gender and Development Research Associate at the Young African Policy Research Hub (YAPORH), Munyenyembe is passionate about promoting gender inclusiveness and development as a significant policy and research issue. YAPORH recognizes the equal status of women and men, girls and boys, and endeavors to create an environment where they can coexist harmoniously in peace and security. The organization delves into the barriers and challenges that hinder gender equality across different sectors, including education, employment, governance, and access to resources. Munyenyembe and her colleagues at YAPORH strive to create a safe environment for all individuals, promoting the elimination of gender-based violence and ensuring equal opportunities for all. They firmly believe that by advancing gender equality and empowering women, Africa can become a more equitable and prosperous continent for all its inhabitants. Born on May 13, 1996, in Nkhotakota, Patience Munyenyembe has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities from an early age. She was the firstborn in a family of four and served as a class representative and school prefect during her formative years. Munyenyembe’s educational journey began at Guilleme Girls Primary School, followed by Matindi Girls Academy, and Likuni Girls Secondary School. Despite facing challenges and not gaining admission to a public university, she remained determined and resilient. In 2014, she enrolled at the University of Livingstonia to study food security and nutrition. A year later, she transferred to Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, where she pursued a diploma in gender and development under the Gender Equality and Women Empowerment scholarship program. Munyenyembe further pursued her studies and completed her bachelor’s degree in gender and development in August 2021. In a recent Malawian news article, Munyenyembe’s inspiring journey and remarkable contributions were highlighted, captivating readers with her relentless dedication to promoting gender inclusiveness and development. Patience Munyenyembe not only celebrates her highest moments but also looks ahead to the future with great ambition. She aspires to work as a diplomat, Cabinet minister, or even start her own business with the aim of creating employment opportunities for young people. Her inspiration comes from powerful women such as Habiba Osmans, Martha Chizuma, and Grace Malera, who have paved the way for gender equality and leadership in various fields. One of Munyenyembe’s most significant achievements occurred in December 2022 when she had the honor of being one of the presenters at the second Pan-African Parliament Youth Dialogue in Rabat, Morocco. Recounting the experience, Munyenyembe expressed her gratitude, stating, “Diplomats and members of parliaments from across Africa attentively listened to a small girl from Malawi for a good one hour.” This milestone showcased her exceptional communication skills and the impact she has had on a global stage As she embarks on her role as the Speaker of the SADC Youth Parliament, Munyenyembe brings her extensive expertise, research insights, and commitment to youth inclusion and gender equality. Her experience at YAPORH will undoubtedly inform her decisions and contribute to her impactful leadership in advocating for the rights and well-being of young people in the Southern African region. Patience Munyenyembe’s achievements and dedication serve as an inspiration for fellow youth, particularly young girls, to pursue their dreams and strive for positive change in their communities. Her appointment as the SADC Youth Parliament Speaker marks a significant milestone in her journey towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. |
