In 2023, the Campaign for Good Governance (CGG) took a bold and transformative step toward securing the future of women’s leadership in Sierra Leone by launching a groundbreaking initiative: “Positioning Young Women for Meaningful Participation in Democratic Governance.” This project was more than just a training program—it was a powerful investment in the next generation of female leaders, designed to ensure that the progress made by women in governance is not lost, but carried forward with strength and vision.
At the heart of this initiative was the Young Women in Democracy Forum (YWDF)—formerly known as the Young Women in Politics Network—a dynamic coalition of young women leaders from all 16 districts of Sierra Leone. CGG brought together YWDF’s national executive members for a strategic inception meeting that set the tone for a year of capacity-building, mentorship, and action-oriented leadership development.
From the very beginning, the message was clear: the baton of leadership must be passed.
Mrs. Marcella Samba-Sesay, Executive Director of CGG and a trailblazer in her own right, delivered a stirring address at the meeting, reminding participants of the critical role young women must play in sustaining and expanding democratic spaces for gender equality.
“Older women have long been champions of gender equality,” she said. “But if they phase out without successors, the space for the female gender will be empty. That’s why CGG considers it a responsibility to equip young women to take front-line leadership roles.” — Mrs. Marcella Samba-Sesay, Executive Director, Campaign for Good Governance.
These words resonated deeply with the young leaders in the room. They were not just being trained—they were being called to lead.
By investing in YWDF, CGG ensured that young women are not just included in democratic conversations—they are leading them.
Today, YWDF stands as a testament to what is possible when institutions commit to intergenerational leadership. From organizing regional electoral education outreach to advocating for the localization of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda, YWDF members are applying their training to real-world challenges across the country.