Begin with the person’s own project
Supporting a woman’s project starts with a question: what would she like to change in her life? The answer may concern an activity, a skill, daily organisation or participation in a decision. It should not be replaced by a priority chosen on her behalf.
Autonomy therefore asks us to treat support as a space for choice. Present options, explain their limits, listen to preferences and respect a refusal. A proposal can be relevant without suiting everyone.
Consider practical conditions
A training programme may appear accessible while requiring time, travel or equipment that is difficult to arrange. Its format should be discussed with potential participants.
Which times are possible? Which language supports exchange? Are the proposed tools familiar? How will family and professional responsibilities fit alongside the pathway? These questions help shape support around everyday realities.
The framework should also explain what is and is not offered. Training does not promise income. An introduction does not guarantee a contract. Clarity allows people to decide on an understandable basis.
Make room for peer support
A group can offer space to share experience, discuss an obstacle or prepare a decision. Simple expectations are needed: respect, confidentiality, freedom not to answer and no judgement of people’s journeys.
A facilitator need not answer every question. They can help clarify a problem, seek reliable information or identify outside expertise. Recognising the limits of the role is part of responsible support.
Follow what matters to participants
Review criteria should reflect the goals people actually choose. These may include organising an activity, mastering a tool, clarifying an offer or feeling more able to express a preference. Such markers should be discussed without imposing a success story.
Our perspective
Rise for Africa aims to support approaches that connect capabilities, useful networks and the ability to decide. Our ambition is to build possibilities with women that remain their own, respecting the diversity of their projects and their pace.
