My vision for the future: addressing gender inequality in Kenya

While working as a lawyer in Kenya, I discovered mindsets and norms that continue to hinder the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 5 which aims to achieve gender equality.

I founded Social Justice Insights Kenya, an advocacy platform dedicated to addressing high rates of gender-based violence in Kenya. Through education, research-based advocacy and social behavioural change, I’ve led impactful campaigns to create awareness, shift harmful societal attitudes and foster meaningful dialogue on gender equality.

My advocacy efforts against femicide in Kenya have been internationally recognised, with features on Al Jazeera English Quotables, The Guardian UK and Selam and Hello (an award-winning Kenyan podcast).

These recognitions underscore the growing reach and influence of my work in catalysing social change. Building on this momentum, I’m now expanding my impact by launching the Social Justice Insights Kenya audio-visual podcast on 1 April 2025.

This will amplify voices for gender equality and spark the conversations we need to have.

Chevening’s impact

Through Chevening, I’m studying Media and Development at the University of Westminster. I’m learning digital production, strategic campaign communications, communications policy and development that provide me with insights into tackling gender equality.

Chevening has given me a crucial international network with fellow Cheveners who I now consider friends for life. Some of them have even supported my advocacy platform and featured in my campaign for the 16 Days Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), giving them a chance to showcase their work and impact concerning GBV.

By leveraging the Chevening network, I aim to continue forging partnerships that will amplify my work and impact in Kenya, but also the work of Chevening scholars who are creating meaningful change in their respective countries.

Above all, the Chevening experience is empowering me to scale up my initiatives and drive sustainable change through strategic communication and advocacy.

What’s next for Maria?

Looking to the future, I envision Social Justice Insights Kenya evolving into a leading platform for advocacy and innovation in gender equality in Kenya and Africa. My immediate focus is on the audio-visual podcast as a platform to provide a powerful space for dialogue, storytelling and education on issues affecting women’s rights.

I aim to work as an advocacy and campaign professional who crafts impactful campaigns for an international development organisation, agency or charity that works in the field of gender equality and human rights.

My goal is to use advocacy and campaigning to collaborate with policymakers, grassroots organisations and international development agencies to create sustainable solutions to gender inequality.