She Creates Change: Empowering Educators to Champion Life Skills in Malawi
In a country where adolescent girls face persistent barriers to education early marriage, social expectations, and unequal access to opportunity educators hold the power to shift the narrative.
From April 8–11, 2025, Girls Activist Youth Organization (GAYO), in partnership with CRECCOM with funding from Room to Read hosted a 4-day Educator Trainers’ Training on Life Skills Education at Thope Lodge in Mponela. The training was a key step in the She Creates Change project, a transformative initiative that equips teachers to deliver critical life skills in gender-sensitive, engaging, and inclusive ways.
“We don’t just teach. We facilitate change.” – Gilbert Mbwana, GAYO Program Manager
A Training Like No Other
More than 40 educators gathered for an immersive journey through interactive modules, role-play, video storytelling, and peer-led mock facilitation sessions. Guided by experts from Room to Read, GAYO, and CRECCOM, they explored key topics such as:
- Gender norms, stereotypes, and unconscious bias
- The Gender Integration Continuum
- Creating safe learning environments for girls
- Learner-centered teaching methodologies
- Intersectionality in education
- Facilitation vs. lecturing techniques
Using LEGO bricks, storytelling, and the powerful She Creates Change video series, educators saw firsthand how innovative, relatable tools can spark conversation and connection in classrooms.
From Theory to Practice
Participants didn’t just sit and listen they got on their feet. Through mock facilitation, educators practiced delivering real life skills sessions from the SCC curriculum, covering topics from menstruation management to critical thinking and assertiveness. Peer feedback, reflection, and laughter filled the room as confidence grew with each session.
A Vision for Change
The training culminated with closing reflections from facilitators, Room to Read representatives, and the Ministry of Education. Mr. Ruben from the Ministry applauded the commitment shown by participants:
“You are the ones who guide these young minds not just to benefit, but to become changemakers in their communities.”
Room to Read’s Zamaradi added,
“This is only the beginning. Our collective commitment will determine how far She Creates Change will go in Malawi.”
What’s Next?
As the program rolls out in schools across Malawi, these trained educators will play a crucial role in delivering life skills sessions that help girls and boys build the resilience, confidence, and critical thinking needed to navigate the world.
With continued support and monitoring, GAYO, CRECCOM and Room to Read are committed to ensuring no girl is left behind.
Stay connected as we follow the journey of She Creates Change in schools and communities across Malawi.