She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
She dresses herself with strength
and makes her arms strong.
Proverbs 31:16-17
Through the course of history in Kenya, women have not been given the same access to things such as education and job equality as many of their male counterparts. Daystar is changing this long adopted tradition and empowering women to step into their fullest potential.
As we just recently wrapped up Women's History Month, I'd like to highlight some of the amazing women at Daystar. These women are driving the conversation in Kenya, and changing years old tradition of the female role in society.
Prof. Alice Munene, former Daystar Dean of Psychology and Coordinator of Daystar's Psychology Doctorate Program, explained how women are driving the issue of mental health in Kenya, and because of this it is being taken more seriously. In three counties, female Daystar graduates have been employed to work with the counties to help provide resources and support to the mental health crisis. She went on to explain, the majority of psychologists in Kenya are women. Even law enforcement is beginning to employ women psychologists, and several of them are DU graduates!
"They are women, they have PhDs, and they are driving the conversation."
- Prof. Alice Munene
Sara was born in South Sudan, and as a result of war and Dinka culture, explained how not many women are allowed to go to school. Usually when girls are married, that is the end of their education, and they go throughout life without basic reading and writing skills. However she explained that her husband (John Daau, a Daystar graduate) is different, and would like to see all women educated in South Sudan.
"One of my biggest dreams is to help needy children, especially orphans, to help provide them with good education and better health services. I believe that children deserve care and special provision to enable them to embrace a bright future."
Sara majored in psychology and counseling at Daystar, and was able to learn English as part of her education.
Cynthia is a Daystar alumni who received a scholarship that enabled her to pursue her education and achieve a successful career in public relations.
"I'm so glad to see more women take up space in the boardroom and let their voices be heard. I am a product of the empowerment of women, and can't wait to impart the same knowledge to the next generation of women in the work force."
Cynthia is currently working at a PR agency, and pursuing her masters degree in corporate communications.
Dorothy is a Daystar University graduate with a degree in public relations. She was the recipient of a work-study scholarship that allowed her to complete her education and move on to help her community.
"I was so thrilled and humbled to know that God had me in his mind. I wake up everyday and hope that all those who invested in me will be proud."
Dorothy has focused her career on the servant-leadership principles she learned at Daystar. She is currently working for a non-government organization called Save the Children as a social media and communications officer.
Daystar makes efforts every day to ensure women receive the same education as men. Just recently the DITA (Daystar Information Technology Association) hosted a forum to celebrate International Women's Day. This event hosted some of the most prominent female figures in the tech industry. Take a peak at the video below to see highlights from the event!