The Ambassadors of the European Union, China, and the United States, alongside the High Commissioners of South Africa and the United Kingdom, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Lesotho, have revealed the winners of the 2024 edition of the Ambassador For A Day competition.
Held in commemoration of International Women’s Day, the competition is dedicated to empowering and inspiring young girls across Lesotho and giving them the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of diplomatic activities in Lesotho.
The Ambassador for a Day initiative in Lesotho returned for its second year, following its successful launch in 2023, offering young girls the unique opportunity to step into the shoes of an Ambassador for a Day and receive mentorship throughout the year from their respective Embassy and international organization, engaging in various individual and group activities.
Six girls were chosen from a pool of submissions for their ideas on advancing gender equality in society. Each Embassy will continue to mentor and support one girl, showcasing their dedication to empowering young women and fostering the next generation of leaders.
The winners are:
- Delegation of the European Union to Lesotho – Motšelisi Mohapeloa
- British High Commission – Bokang Nkabi
- Embassy of the People’s Republic of China – Reamohetsoe Letooane
- High Commission of the Republic of South Africa – Kamohelo Khabele
- Embassy of the United States of America – Motšelisi Pitso
- Office of the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations – Kananelo Matsimane
The competition was aimed at girls aged 14-18 years old in Lesotho, inspiring them to submit an 800-word essay or a 2-minute video addressing one of two thought-provoking questions:
“What do you think is the best investment to enhance gender equality in your community?” or “How can you contribute towards accelerating progress towards creating a more inclusive environment for all?”
“The Ambassadors and High Commissioners involved in this initiative are dedicated to nurturing the potential of young girls in Lesotho, encouraging them to dream big and aspire to greatness”, says EU Head of Delegation, Ambassador Paola Amadei. “The initiative aimed to amplify the voices of young Basotho girls and cultivate a sense of empowerment among them”, she continues.
This initiative will serve as a platform for young girls to connect, learn, and broaden their horizons, fostering a supportive environment for growth and development. The Ambassador For A Day programme aims to instil confidence and ambition in the next generation of leaders by providing real-world experiences and mentorship.
This collaborative effort between the diplomatic missions in the Kingdom not only provides invaluable experiences for young girls but also underscores the significance of mentorship and empowerment in shaping a brighter future for young girls in Lesotho. The continuation of this programme signifies a dedication to fostering leadership skills and promoting gender equality.