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Recently, I watched a video message by Namibian First Lady Monica Geingos on the theme of the 2021 International Women’s Day: #ChoosetoChallenge. In her message, she spoke of the misogyny and online abuse faced by her simply because she is a powerful woman living and speaking her truth. She also spoke of her decision to push back against her abusers because, “Your silence won’t protect you”.

International Women’s Day has come and gone but Monica's message has left a lasting impression on me. It reminded me of all the little ways that women shrink and are silenced by society. I remember watching Hillary Clinton face former US President Donald Trump in a 2016 presidential debate.

2007 Tutu Fellow 'Gbenga Sesan, who has been immersed in the tech sector for most of his career, has warned that technology alone isn't a solution to inequality.  Tech evangelists have waxed poetic about the ubiquitous nature of technology might be the rising tide that lifts those in poverty out of that state.  In a TED talk, Gbenga argues that centuries of inequality can't be solved with access to technology alone - as limited as that may be. Instead, improved access must be coupled to training and support too.

Sharing the work behind the Paradigm Initiative, a social enterprise in Nigeria that's empowering young people with digital resources and skills, Gbenga details his vision for creating life-changing opportunities for generations of people across Africa.

2016 Archbishop Desmond Tutu African Leadership Fellow André Ross has been made Executive Director, Head Global Corporate Banking, Sub-Saharan Africa for J.P. Morgan.  He has served J.P. Morgan as Executive Director, South Africa since June of 2017 and was Head of Financial Institutions Africa with Barclays Africa Corporate and Investment Bank.

André is passionate about empowering youth through sport. He co-Founded the Jala Peo foundation, which runs two academies - the Diepsloot Mountain Bike Academy and the Muldersdrift Academy.  The academies were started with the intention of helping children to use their time constructively and gives them a positive outlet for healthy activities.