Andrew
Sunday Mail Reporter
Empowering women and the girl-child will help address the scourge of gender-based violence and inequality.
This was said by Lily of Valleys Home of Hope founder Mrs Fortune Kufakunesu during the launch of the organisation at a Harare hotel last night. She said her vision was to uplift marginalised women.
“I grew up in Chihota and by the grace of God I was raised by a couple from Harare,” she said.
“They made me who I am today and that is how I got the desire to do the same.
“Everyone in this room has the power to change lives of the girl child.
“The love that protected me from a dark future is what gave birth to Lily of Valleys Home of Hope, and we intend to give hope where there is no hope. We want the girl child to pursue their life goals free from gender-based violence and poverty.”
Keynote speaker, Women’s Microfinance Bank chief executive officer Dr Mandas Marikanda urged women to support each other’s projects.
“When you get an opportunity to impact a girl-child, just know that you are impacting a legacy; you are impacting generations to come,” said Dr Marikanda.
“I believe in collaboration and as Women’s Bank we are going to partner with Lily of Valleys Home of Hope to assist women.
“We hope we can open doors for you to get other friends who can support the projects that you are doing.”
The private voluntary organisation targets to promote the empowerment of vulnerable girls and women through philanthropic ventures.
Online Reporter