HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RECENT WOMEN TEACHERS CONFERENCE & AGM

More than 1000 women educators recently convened for a two-day conference in Kisumu, Kenya. In the past week, this event has been the main topic of conversation among Kenya’s teaching community. Reports confirmed by KEWOTA’s membership and data management department indicate that shortly after the event, both male and female teachers have been enthusiastically joining the Kenya Women Teachers Association. Whether you attended or missed the conference, grab a coffee, eliminate distractions, and settle in. We’re about to share the story of KEWOTA’s most successful and widely famed women teachers’ conference.

KEWOTA is a legally registered welfare association for female educators in Kenya, with a portion of the membership open to men. Currently, the data department states that the membership exceeds 80,000 across the country. The main goal of KEWOTA is to enhance the lives of women teachers in Kenya. The organization has aided numerous women educators and girls, overseen impactful change initiatives, and collaborated with local and global industry leaders. KEWOTA operates under a constitution that mandates an annual general meeting.

Until last year, the AGM was a single-day affair concentrating on administrative matters. However, in 2022, KEWOTA’s founder, Benter Opande, in collaboration with Edsource Africa, extended it to two days. The first day was dedicated to the women teachers’ conference, while the second focused on the AGM. The women teachers conference’s objective was to unite industry experts in offering KEWOTA representatives an optimal experience through mentorship and access to exclusive resources, fostering their financial, professional, and personal growth. The conference also established a platform for members to partake in significant discussions, equipping them to drive grassroots-level change effectively.

Conference Overview

Returning to the subject; the latest conference, a buzzworthy subject in the teaching community, it took place on August 4th and 5th, 2023. Over 1000 teachers from various regions participated, alongside 30+ local and international partners and stakeholders. The venue was the Tom Mboya Labour College, situated in Kisumu, a lakeside city in Kenya. The proceedings were also streamed live

During the conference’s opening day, each attendee received an unexpected treat at the registration desk: a specially designed gift bag. Inside, they discovered a T-shirt, a branded executive notebook, a pen, and informative brochures. While enjoying tea and a diverse selection of snacks, participants engaged in conversations and enjoyed the soothing melodies of a live band. These activities filled the time as they eagerly awaited the official commencement of the event.

The event began with great enthusiasm, featuring carefully chosen speakers who excelled in delivering informative, entertaining, and motivational talks. Their presentations left attendees feeling informed, entertained, inspired, and empowered.

Monica Kimani, the initial speaker, delivered an impactful motivational speech centered around the concept of “Separate to Operate.” Her discourse focused on women’s leadership and empowerment, urging women teachers to expand their horizons, aspire for significant goals, and actively pursue their personal growth.

The second speaker, Dr. Gerald Ondiek, was invited to shed light on financial literacy and investments. He delivered an exceptional message that resonated with the audience. Dr. Ondiek provided valuable training to women teachers, guiding them in recognizing investment prospects and effectively positioning themselves to seize these opportunities tailored for women.

Bishop Willy Odendo delivered an enlightening discussion on the subject of mental health. He delved into effective strategies for maintaining personal mental well-being, emphasizing the significance of self-care, handling both internal and external expectations, embracing authenticity, setting a comfortable pace, and cultivating the ability to decline when necessary. These insights provided a comprehensive guide to nurturing strong personal mental health.

Following the motivational and empowering talks, the moment arrived for KEWOTA’s leadership to address its members. The top three leaders were warmly welcomed onto the stage with enthusiastic song and dance. The affection and respect the KEWOTA members held for their leaders were evident as they expressed their deep appreciation. These leaders have skillfully guided the organization through thick and thin, leading to the dynamic state it proudly stands in today.

Benter Opande, the founder and Chief Executive Officer, shared her heartfelt delight and contentment as she reflected on KEWOTA’s remarkable journey. She remarked, “Whenever I address an audience, I begin by recounting KEWOTA’s story and the challenges we’ve overcome to reach this point. However, today, that narrative is no longer mine alone. It has been embraced by our dedicated members and coordinators who are excelling in their roles.”

The CEO emphasized that KEWOTA’s enduring motivation has been and will continue to be the transformation of women teachers’ lives, both during their active service and after retirement. She further noted, “Remarkably, KEWOTA stands as the sole organization that encompasses and provides assistance to retired teachers.”

Benter encouraged partners and stakeholders to prioritize women in decision-making roles, highlighting that astute CEOs actively seek to hire women. She affirmed that women bring a distinct and valuable innovative perspective to the table.

She also hinted that soon, KEWOTA will be investing in parcels of land purely for the benefit of its staff and members.

The then-acting chairperson who is now the confirmed National Chairperson, Modesta Akaki, started her speech in a comically entertaining manner by expressing her nervousness caused by the upcoming election.

Modesta in her speech echoed the CEO on what KEWOTA had gone through. “It has taken a lot of commitment and perseverance for this organization to be the way it is today,” she told the room.

The National Chairperson also praised KEWOTA for its efforts in providing retired teachers with a life of dignity and a platform for both social and economic empowerment.

The National Treasurer, often referred to as the NT, Jacinta Ndegwa, began by sharing her renowned tale of the chicken business. She took the members on a straightforward journey, demonstrating how to calculate potential earnings by starting with just a small number of chickens and progressively growing the business.

Jacinta also encouraged the women teachers to position themselves for government tenders meant for women and stated that KEWOTA will help women teachers to register companies and apply for government tenders.

The NT emphasized that KEWOTA’s array of financial programs and products are fostering self-reliance among women teachers. These offerings, including micro-loans, are accessible via KEWOTA’s subsidiary entity, Kewota Shared Services Ltd.

Acknowledging Outstanding Members: Surprise awards and Laptops

This year, KEWOTA clearly demonstrated its commitment to its members. Following the Executive speeches, numerous KEWOTA members were pleasantly surprised with awards and gifts. These tokens of appreciation consisted of laptops, art deco items, and shopping vouchers.

The awards were bestowed upon members who had shown exceptional dedication to advocating for women and girlchild concerns, including issues like FGM and GBV. Recognitions were also extended to the most supportive coordinators and the most proactive leaders, among other categories.

More than 100 teachers, who had previously applied for laptops through the KEWOTA digital program, were priorly invited to the event. Staying true to their commitment, KEWOTA fulfilled the promise. One by one, recipients were called to the stage, and each teacher received a laptop from the CEO of House of Procurement, KEWOTA’s official partner for the program. These laptops are far from ordinary; they were chosen with careful consideration for quality. “KEWOTA prioritized excellence. When examining the specifications, such as RAM, storage, and processing speed, these laptops rank at the highest level. They’re well-suited for demanding modern tasks like design and data processing,” noted Joseph Orido, KEWOTA’s IT officer. These laptops come with integrated digital textbooks, online TSC services, and access to a plethora of self-improvement courses.

And the winner is…

KEWOTA’s commitment to recognizing its members didn’t conclude there. Two fortunate teachers were awarded brand-new laptops, with no cost on their part. Their entry ticket to this opportunity was as simple as buying a raffle ticket for just Ksh 100.

The initial winner, a teacher hailing from Nyamira County, couldn’t contain her happiness and elation as her name was announced. Overflowing with excitement, she leaped and spun with joy, even becoming emotional as she stepped onto the stage to collect her laptop from the CEO of HOP. In an emotional speech, she shared that winning was a novel experience for her, causing her to become overwhelmed.

The second winner, a teacher from Kajiado, openly admitted that her desire for a laptop was strong, but financial constraints had made it impossible. Even her payslip didn’t offer room for a loan. Both of these deserving teachers proudly left with their laptops, courtesy of KEWOTA and HOP.

Miss Kewota 2023

This year, an unexpected addition caught everyone’s attention in the program. Those who glanced at the schedule took a second look to make sure they read it correctly. The final line of the first day’s program stated: Time: 5:30PM – 8PM: Miss KEWOTA Beauty Cont

Beauty Contest? For Teachers?

Indeed, the very question you’re pondering was on everyone’s minds. Yet, as they witnessed it in action, they comprehended the nature of the event.

For the very first time, KEWOTA orchestrated a beauty contest exclusively for women teachers. The beauty pageant featured 16 contestants, with two representing each region of Kenya. The ultimate victor would earn the prestigious title of Miss KEWOTA 2023.

As the evening unfolded, the stage was set with a complete runway, dazzling lights, vibrant music, a panel of judges, and all the necessary elements. The event commenced with the MC initiating the proceedings and introducing the contestants for their first walk – the introductory walk. One by one, the women teachers graced the runway with a blend of confidence and flair, executing their catwalks with precision and showcasing their beauty. The show brought both entertainment and a welcomed release of stress after a day filled with speeches and other activities.

Following the initial walk, the contestants embarked on a second stroll, showcasing their professional demeanor and style. This was succeeded by a third walk, designated as the creative walk, where the contestants had the chance to unveil their unique talents and gifts. With these rounds concluded, the spotlight shifted to the judges who were tasked with revealing their decisions

Amid the mounting excitement and suspense, the moment arrived when Madam Esther Otieno from Siaya County was declared as Miss KEWOTA 2023. This title signifies more than just an honor; it carries the role of a brand ambassador. Moreover, Miss KEWOTA is set to assume a pivotal role in championing women’s rights and advocating for girls’ issues, all under the auspices of KEWOTA’s leadership.

KEWOTA’s CEO, Benter Opande, revealed that the Miss KEWOTA competition would become an annual tradition, taking place during each AGM.

KEWOTA AGM

The second day of the event revolved more around administrative matters, with a key highlight being the election of officials to lead the association for the upcoming five years. Among the positions up for contention, the one that generated the most anticipation was the role of the National Chairperson of the organization.

Modesta Akaki seemed to have already captured the admiration of the members, as she was confirmed as the National Chairperson without any opposition.

Key takeaways from the event

Whether you’ve been tracking KEWOTA’s journey or have delved into research, it’s evident that the organization has triumphed over adversity, overcoming obstacles like controversy, defamation, and resistance to attain its current stature. Observing the dynamism of its members and the triumphs of its flourishing initiatives alongside local and international partnerships, it’s reasonable to assert that the visionary aspirations of KEWOTA’s founders have indeed been fulfilled.

The future of KEWOTA and its impact in Kenya’s education sector.

From an analytical standpoint, the Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA) emerges as a beacon for the future of teachers’ well-being and personal growth within Kenya, catering to both male and female educators. This assertion is fortified by the operational approach and core values that underpin the organization. Remarkably proactive, extensively connected, and inventive leaders further accentuate this perspective. Notably, KEWOTA stands out as the education sector’s most member-centric entity. These attributes, coupled with the robust network and supportive framework that define the association, culminate in a logical conclusion: in the forthcoming years, KEWOTA is poised to assume a central role in enhancing the welfare and personal development of teachers across Kenya.

Useful links

How female/male teachers in Kenya can join KEWOTA: https://www.kewota.co.ke/join-kewota/

Partner with KEWOTA as an individual or organization: https://www.kewota.co.ke/contact/

Opportunities: https://www.kewota.co.ke/

KEWOTA products: https://www.kewota.co.ke/kewota-products-quick-guide/

Watch the AGM: https://www.facebook.com/WomenTeachersKE/videos

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