From Village SACCO to District Council: The Skills That Launched a Leader
In many communities, young people feel disconnected from the leaders who make decisions affecting their future. The path to leadership can seem closed, reserved for those with established networks or financial means. But what happens when a dedicated young person is equipped not just with passion, but with the precise skills to navigate the system? The story of Kawawa Rashid from Yumbe District is a testament to the power of knowledge, mentorship, and unwavering belief.
The Barrier: Will Without a Way
Before his journey with the SLOGBAA project, Rashid was already a community-minded individual who supported a village Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO). Yet, he felt a familiar frustration. He witnessed local decisions being made but didn't understand the "how" or "why." "I felt the urgency to have my voice heard, especially with my skills in village financial empowerment, but I didn't know how to influence the planning or budgets that shaped our daily lives," Rashid reflects. Like many youths, he saw a gap between his desire to serve and his ability to effect systemic change.
The Transformation: Skills, Confidence, and a Bold Step
Everything shifted when Rashid joined SLOGBAA's targeted training and the Mentorship Action Program (MAP). Moving from theory to practice, he gained crucial skills in how local government works, the entry point for meaningful participation and influence, and the various sector committees where his existing skills are highly relevant. This wasn't just abstract learning; it was a toolkit for civic engagement.
More than knowledge, he gained confidence and a clarified sense of purpose. Empowered by his mentors, Rashid took a decisive leap. On 13th July 2025, he collected his Expression of Interest forms to run for Male Youth Councillor in Yumbe District.
The Campaign: Overcoming Barriers to Victory
The journey was not easy. Rashid faced the significant financial barriers that deterred countless capable young people from entering politics. Yet, armed with conviction and his community's support, he campaigned with determination. His clear vision and grassroots understanding resonated powerfully.
His efforts led to a remarkable outcome: victory in the primary elections. Subsequently, he collected his official nomination forms from the Electoral Commission as an unopposed candidate—a clear signal of his community's trust and the compelling platform he had built.
The Future: Leadership Forged by Empowerment
“The SLOGBAA project gave me more than a plan; it gave me the belief and the practical tools to step up and lead,” says Rashid.
Rashid credits the project's blend of knowledge and mentorship for his transformative journey. As he prepares to assume his elected position in 2026 formally, his commitment is clear: to serve as a dedicated advocate for his community, amplify the voices of young people, and champion a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable local government.
Rashid’s journey from a supportive community coordinator to an unopposed youth councillor proves that when young people are strategically empowered, they don’t just ask for a seat at the table—they earn it, and bring their entire community forward with them.