Celebrating strong, quiet women

Dear GSGC Supporter

As we come to the end of Women’s Month celebrations across the world, I find myself reflecting on something that feels both simple and deeply important: the power of creating spaces where softer, quieter voices can be heard.

In a world that often rewards the loudest and most confident voices, especially with the rise of social media, it is easy for others to be overlooked. What feels so meaningful in the spaces we support is that this is not what happens. Through the mentorship circles and safe spaces created across our clubs, quieter voices are not only welcomed, but encouraged.

Recently, I took part in an international leadership training for women from across the globe. What stayed with me most was what unfolded in the smaller mentoring circles. When there are clear boundaries, when safety is intentionally created, and when different perspectives are truly valued, something shifts. Those who might not usually speak begin to share, and what they share is often filled with depth, insight and quiet wisdom.

In this newsletter, we are honoured to feature two such voices from our network, Sunga and Thembi. They may not always be the loudest in the room, but their presence reminds us that leadership can be steady, thoughtful and deeply grounded.

These role models matter, especially for the shy girls who are still finding their voices. The spaces created by mentors like these allow them to be heard in their own time and in their own way.

As we celebrate women, I want to acknowledge the sensitive, shy girls who may not stand as tall when they first enter our clubs, but who carry a quiet dignity, strength and awareness that the world needs more of. There is a softness that feels especially important right now. A gentler way of being. A willingness to listen. A space for vulnerability.

We will be gathering as a community on 9 April for our next Connection Circle, where we will meet in smaller groups and hear directly from some of our mentors. I would love to see you there.

Thank you for the quiet and important role each of you plays in holding this circle.

With deep thanks and appreciation,

Tara Casey

Executive Director

Global Sojourns Giving Circle

Honouring the Women Who Guide Us

In a session, young people gathered in their safe space to create Women’s Day cards for the women who shape their lives — mothers, grandmothers, sisters and Mentors.

As they wrote their messages and shared their reflections, it was clear how deeply these relationships matter. These women are sources of strength, care and everyday guidance.

One touching moment came when several of the young people chose to dedicate their cards to their Mentor, Sunga — a quiet but powerful reminder of the role Mentors play in helping young people feel seen, supported and encouraged.

In our clubs, these moments of reflection are part of how we celebrate the women who guide, nurture and inspire the next generation.

Mentor Moments - Thembie Dhlamini

This month we highlight Mentor Thembie Dhlamini, who is a mentor for Tikobane Girls Club in Dete, ZImbabwe.

For Thembie, mentorship begins with a simple but powerful realization: mentors do not always need to have the answers.

“Simply being there for young girls and listening to them is the best way to make a difference.”

Read Thembie’s full mentor moment here as she shares more of her journey to becoming and mentor and her hopes for the future.

Challenging the Myth. Shaping the Future

At Tikobane’s Alumni Club, young people gathered to reflect on powerful lessons from The Myth of Manhood — and the conversations that followed were honest, courageous and deeply inspiring.

They challenged harmful stereotypes, redefined strength, and spoke openly about vulnerability, responsibility and respect. Many reflected on how the book reshaped their understanding of leadership within their families and communities.

What stood out most was Alumni stepping forward to facilitate conversations with younger club members. This peer-to-peer engagement is leadership in action — strengthening confidence, accountability and the capacity to guide others.

When young people are given safe spaces to think critically and lead with dignity, transformation becomes generational.

Friends of Change: Mentoring boys towards possibility

Rooted in creativity and guided by mentorship, Friends of Change boys club is a space where boys are encouraged to explore who they are, imagine who they can become and build the resilience to move toward that future.

Led by Mentor Kangwa, the club uses art as a foundation for growth. Through imagination and expression, boys begin to see possibilities they may not yet have believed were available to them.

Read in Kangwa’s own words his club highlight and what this club is doing for young boys in his community.