Spotlight Initiative 2.0 Uganda Young Women's Symposium Advocacy Brief

On 18 September 2025, Spotlight Initiative Uganda hosted the Young Women Symposium in Entebbe, Uganda. The Symposium included more than 350 adolescent girls, boys, young men and women from 17 districts. Many participants were students of Spotlight Initiative’s Empowerment Programme. For three to six months, students receive training on electrical installation, mechanics, plumbing tailoring, IT and soap making. This happens alongside training on GBV prevention, SRHR and life skills. 

The Symposium was attended by representatives of the Team Europe Initiative, including the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Ms. Frederieke Quispel; the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Leonard Zulu; and the Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Ms. Grace Adong Choda, representatives of national and district local government, civil society and UN agencies.

The Symposium was an opportunity for young people, including those receiving training and support from Spotlight Initiative, to engage with seniors, leaders and decision makers that they would otherwise might not have access to.

Today We Speak First! brings together the voices, experiences and advocacy messages from young people who led the Spotlight Initiative Symposium.