Following a transformative learning visit to Kenya, Her Initiative has taken another step forward in adapting global approaches to fit local realities. The recent visit to our offices by Susan Kelly and Veronica Selestine from the Maisha Scale-Up team marked a significant moment in our continued collaboration to address Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) among young women in Tanzania.
This engagement came shortly after Wendy Shewiyo, a representative from Her Initiative, spent a week in Kenya participating in the Maisha Curriculum co-creation process. The objective of that visit was to work closely with partners and the Maisha team to explore whether the curriculum designed to prevent IPV resonates with the lived experiences of the communities Her Initiative serves in Tanzania. Wendy’s time in Kenya allowed for deep reflection, knowledge exchange, and a critical assessment of the curriculum’s relevance across diverse contexts.
Upon her return, the conversation continued at Her Initiative. Hosting Susan and Veronica at our offices offered an invaluable opportunity to deepen the dialogue around localization. Together, we explored how the Maisha Curriculum can be adapted to better reflect the challenges, aspirations, and realities of the young women in our programs. The goal was not to change the core of Maisha, but rather to ensure that it speaks directly to the hearts and experiences of Tanzanian girls and young women, making its impact both personal and powerful.
Through these rich discussions, one thing became clear: the majority of beneficiaries at Her Initiative are well suited for the Maisha Curriculum. Their age group, life experiences, and socio-economic environments align closely with the curriculum’s intended audience, making the implementation not only possible but potentially transformative.
This process is a strong example of what meaningful partnerships and co-creation can achieve. By listening closely to the communities we serve and working collaboratively with technical partners like Maisha Scale-Up, we are moving toward a more contextualized, effective, and sustainable response to IPV.
As we move ahead, Her Initiative remains committed to ensuring that every tool, resource, and curriculum we use uplifts young women, reflects their voices, and fuels their power to lead safe and fulfilled lives.