In the realm of social impact, some partnerships are more than just collaborations; they’re profound alliances working towards transformative change. One such alliance that shines brightly in our network is with Together Women Can (TWC), a passionate advocate and sponsor of Lightup Impact.
The birth of Together Women Can
TWC’s journey began with a vision to defeat cervical cancer among Kenyan women. Co-founded by our Executive Director, Dr. Valeria Santoro, and Dr. Hrvoje Cvija during their time at Boehringer Ingelheim, this initiative was born from a shared commitment to address a pressing issue. The mission was clear: to make a tangible difference in women’s lives through early diagnosis of cervical cancer and empowerment.
A lifesaving debut
TWC’s project was nothing short of remarkable. In partnership with Ampath, they launched a campaign that screened over 3 000 women for cervical cancer and equipped five healthcare facilities in Eldoret and its surroundings. Dr. Lydia Mwanzia, who played a pivotal role on the ground, will be sharing insights on community mobilization and outreach for cervical health screening during Lightup Impact Days 2023.
Shifting the power through economic empowerment
TWC’s impact goes beyond health. They’ve embarked on an exciting new project in collaboration with Wa-Wa Kenya, focusing on women’s economic empowerment. This project targets Kindu and Mbita sub-counties of Homa Bay County, Kenya.
Addressing critical challenges
The project couldn’t have come at a better time. In Kenya, cervical cancer screening rates have been alarmingly low, with only 3% of eligible women receiving screening annually. This can be attributed to inadequate sexual health education, limited access to screening facilities, and women’s financial dependence. Wa-Wa Kenya, a LIghtup Impact member organization with a track record in reducing women’s economic vulnerability through skill development, will lead a poultry farming project as an incentive for the cervical cancer screening initiative.
The numbers speak
The impact of TWC and Wa-Wa Kenya’s partnership is undeniable. TWC’s 2022 cervical cancer awareness and screening outreach touched the lives of more than 3 000 women. Wa-Wa Kenya has empowered over 600 women through professional skills development since 2019. These figures paint a picture of the positive change that collaboration can bring.
What lies ahead
In 2023-2024, TWC and Wa-Wa Kenya have ambitious plans. They aim to screen over 1 000 women for cervical cancer, get over 300 women vaccinated against human papillomavirus, and help the same number achieve economic stability through poultry farming. The synergy between these two organizations promises a brighter future for countless women.
Join us in shaping a healthier future
At Lightup Impact, we are honored to partner with TWC on their mission to defeat cervical cancer and empower women economically. The impact of this collaboration is already evident, and together, we’re committed to achieving even more.
Join us at Lightup Impact Days 2023 and witness firsthand how partnerships like ours are creating lasting change. It’s an event you wouldn’t want to miss!
