“Be bright in that corner where you are!” This simple yet powerful phrase became our anthem during the onboarding week of the Women of the South Speak Out (WOSSO) Fellowship. The melody might have been catchy, but the words? They’ve stayed with me long after the last note faded. Let me tell you why.
Being selected as a WOSSO Fellow is more than just a title; it’s a transformative experience that marks a clear “before” and “after” in my life. Before, I was a young activist with big dreams and a burning passion for gender equality. Now, I’m a WOSSO Fellow—an empowered feminist with a platform to amplify the voices of young women and girls across the region. The honor of standing up for their rights, of taking up space in a world that often tries to diminish us, is something I carry with immense pride.
But what does it mean to “be bright in that corner where you are”? It means recognizing that no matter where you find yourself—in a bustling city or a quiet village, in a classroom or an office, on a stage or in a field—you have the power to ignite change. You don’t need a megaphone or a spotlight to make an impact. Sometimes, the most profound changes happen in the most ordinary moments. It’s in the conversations we have, the actions we take, and the examples we set every day. Whether you’re leading a workshop, helping a neighbor, or just being a supportive friend, you’re brightening your corner of the world and sparking a fire for the cause close to your heart.
As activists, it’s easy to feel like our efforts are just a drop in the ocean. Advocacy can be a long, winding road, and we may not always see the fruits of our labor. But isn’t it comforting to know that we’re making a difference right now, right where we are? Each of us, in our own unique way, is planting seeds that will grow and flourish long after we’re gone.
I’m thrilled to be part of a cohort of dynamic young women who are brightening 14 different corners of the SADC region. Together, we are lighting the way for others, creating ripples of change that will spread far and wide. The WOSSO Fellowship has not only empowered me but also reaffirmed my belief that true change starts with each of us, shining brightly in our own corners.
So, wherever you are, remember this: You have the capacity to change the world. Shine bright, because the world needs your light!
By Lynet Tinoza, WOSSO Fellow