Dandelion Africa Executive Director Wendo Aszed has lauded donors, partners and all those who have stood with the organization.
In her New Year message, Ms Wendo has reflected on the past 13 years of existence of Dandelion Africa.
She attributes the success of the organization to partnership and collaboration, but more so her resilience through the challenges.
Wendo who on December 29, 2024 met some of the Dandelion Africa Girls for Leaders alumni from 2014 to 2015, expressed her joy as she reflected on their journey through mentorship program by Dandelion Africa.
“Today I had the priledge of the company of these beautiful young women – our Dandelion Africa Girls for Leaders alumnis from 2014-2015, I can’t express how happy I was today, . To see them thriving, with agency, speaking of dreams, opportunities and the joy they have! Software engineers, ComDev, para military, Agronomist/vet!,” she stated.
While reflected on her greatest lessons these past years- Show up in your best authentic self, flourish unapologetically, your past is just that.. NOT HERE! So let your dreams be, so big that your heart pounds at the thought of that dream. Love well, love hard, laugh, you’ll have time to cry! Trust me!
Wendo advises those with dreams to always work on them no matter the challenges.
“The work of your heart is to BEAT! Don’t carry things and people in your heart, they crowd your blood flow to good vibes.. Breathe… you are here, take a moment, breathe, when you go, or if you stay, they will continue to breathe, so breathe… into the future that awaits you,” she states.
According to Wendo, when she founded Dandelion Africa, she relied on goodwill and support from friends.
She proudly states that it has been 13 years of pure blessings.
According to the Director, over 1.3 million people have been impacted, and girls chasing dreams and breaking barriers.
“I am grateful to all of you, who made it possible, it has been a journey,” she says.
And even Kenyans look forward to 2025, Wendo has expressed gratitude to all those who created bridges for her, broke and rebuilt tables for and with her, and created an enabling environment for the foundation that Dandelion Africa stands on today.
She at the same time emotionally admits that Leading is not a walk in the park more so for female.
“Leading is not easy, change is not easy, Leading as female is not easy at all, yet, we lead with intention, with compassion, with joy and sometimes… OK.. alot of times, tears! And that’s OK by the way! remove your wig… cry if you must! No judgement! Show up, you deserve to be here! Enjoy the new year,” stated Wendo.
It should be noted that Dandelion Africa has been implementing several programs aimed at empowering women and girls at grassroot level.
In Nakuru, the NGO has established a medical centre at Sarambei village that has continued to assist mothers and community at large.
Besides health matters, Dandelion Africa has also continued to economically empower women groups at grassroot to become self reliant.
