» Much preparation and few expectations

Annika Allman (Vital Voices Uganda): A Jamaican-Canadian, Annika earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Development Studies from the University of Waterloo. As an undergraduate student, she acted as Administrator for the Guyana Red Cross Society's Children's Convalescent Home. She has also worked as a policy analyst for the Canadian International Development Agency. At the time of her fellowship, Annika was pursuing a Master of International Affairs in economic and political development, and interning at the Women's Refugee Commission. After her fellowship, Annika wrote: "I will be more sensitive about the way I think and speak about Africa and Africans. Second, I will be more connected to the world. This has boosted my confidence tremendously. The openness and appreciation (of my hosts) helped me change the way I see myself, my value and my capabilities."

27 May

According to mainstream media, Uganda has made significant improvements in the economic and human rights spheres since the official end of conflict, including recently banning female circumcision. Today, Ugandan women exercise more and more political and economic power as activists, voters, professionals, mothers and in the many other roles they play. But experience has shown me that mainstream media cannot always capture the atmosphere of a country or the perspectives of its discriminated groups. What challenges and opportunities do women face? Are they generally hopeful about their prospects? How can women collaborate for change?

Addressing these questions will be part of my work with the Uganda Women Entrepreneurs Association Limited (UWEAL), a member of the the Africa Businesswomen’s Network developed in partnership with Vital Voices, and part of The Advocacy Project. I will not be doing ‘a development project’; I’ll conduct a baseline survey of UWEAL’s members, help the Association use social media to make its voice heard and assist in any other advocacy work UWEAL requires from now to September. As I prepare to leave (and there’s still much to do), I have no expectations and a completely open mind. Follow my journey and learn more about women doing business in Uganda on this blog, with photos on flickr, or send me an email at aallman@advocacynet.org.

Posted By Annika Allman

Posted May 27th, 2010

Tereza Bottman
May 27, 2010

The questions you will be asking in your work in Uganda are so excellent. I look forward to reading about what you learn.

Annika
June 19, 2010

Thanks Tereza! I look forwarding to reading about your work as well.

Much preparation and few expectations

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Tereza Bottman

Annika

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