"Temporary Feelings Shouldn't Control Your Destiny" – CRECCOM Inspires Kasupe Girls

Some of the girls who attended the Girls' Retreat at Kasupe CDSS listen attentively as CRECCOM ED shares her inspiring education journey.

The importance of girls’ education took center stage at Kasupe CDSS in Thyolo, where CRECCOM Executive Director, Alinafe Chibwana, led an inspiring ‘M’bindikiro wa Atsikana’ (Girls’ Retreat) session. The event, organized by the Kasupe Mother Group, drew participation from girls across all forms at the school and was honored by the presence of Traditional Authority (TA) Mbawera and Group Village Head (GVH) Phodogama.

The session aimed to inspire young girls to focus on their education, make informed life choices, and resist societal pressures that often push them into early marriages. CRECCOM has been at the forefront of such initiatives, having established girls' clubs and trained mother groups through the Let Girls Learn II project, which is being implemented in Thyolo, Mulanje, Ntchisi, and Chitipa districts with funding from Echidna Giving.

CRECCOM ED Alinafe Chibwana speaking powerfully to the learners at Kasupe CDSS, encouraging them that success is possible regardless of their background.

In her powerful address, Alinafe Chibwana urged the girls to prioritize their studies over distractions such as early relationships and peer pressure.

“Your education is the key to a brighter future. Do not let temporary feelings or societal expectations lead you into choices that could affect your dreams. Boys that approach you now will still be there after you finish school, but by then, you will see things differently. Do not allow your emotions to control your destiny. Focus on your goals, believe in yourself, and trust in God,” she advised the girls.

Traditional Authority (TA) Mbawera of the area also attended the event to inspire and encourage girls in his community to stay in school.

The message was echoed by TA Mbawera, who emphasized the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for young girls.

“Education will open doors that nothing else can. Do not rush into marriage thinking it is your only option. There is a world full of opportunities waiting for you once you complete your studies. Make wise choices now, and you will thank yourself in the future,” he told the attentive audience.

After the Girls' Retreat session, participants gathered for a group photo.

The Girls Retreat sessions are a vital part of the Let Girls Learn II project, empowering girls with knowledge, confidence, and a strong support system through their mother groups, teachers, and traditional leaders.

The engagement of community leaders like TA Mbawera and GVH Phodogama reinforces the message that the entire community has a role to play in ensuring girls stay in school and complete their education.

"Before you leave, you can't miss taking a picture with us! You've truly inspired us" - Kasupe CDSS girls pose for a photo with CRECCOM ED.