On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of a rising star in the realm of gender equality and inclusive societies – Liz Lum. At just a young age, Liz has emerged as a passionate activist and dedicated leader, leaving an indelible mark in the fight for a more equitable world.
Liz Lum’s journey towards becoming a prominent figure in the pursuit of gender equality is marked by her active participation in girl leadership programs. These experiences have equipped her with invaluable skills in advocacy, policy design, implementation, and media branding for impact. Reflecting on her journey, Liz states, “Participating in these programs has not only honed my skills but fueled my determination to contribute meaningfully to the cause of gender equality.”
One of Liz’s notable initiatives involves addressing the challenges faced by girls in schools. She spearheaded efforts to provide emergency pad kits, recognizing the critical need for menstrual hygiene management. Additionally, during the pandemic, Liz led a campaign for online learning in Cameroon, emphasizing the importance of education continuity in the face of unprecedented challenges.
Liz Lum’s commitment extends beyond individual projects, as she actively collaborates with various organizations and young people to tackle gender-related issues. Currently serving as a Participatory Grantmaking Advisor at Global Fund for Women USA, Liz is instrumental in shaping initiatives that empower women globally.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Liz Lum is a Women Deliver Young Leader of 2020 and serves as the Country Youth Advisor for the ASHER Project implemented by the African Institute for Development Policy. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed, as she was nominated for the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize in 2020 and received accolades as an award-winning storyteller at World Pulse.
Liz’s influence extends to her role as a young board member at Common Action for Gender Development Cameroon. Here, she actively engages in SRHR/HIV service delivery policy monitoring and implementation, focusing on internally displaced girls. Her efforts reflect a broader commitment to fostering inclusive policies that cater to the diverse needs of marginalized communities.
A testament to her global perspective, Liz Lum graduated as a Youth Envoy for Peace and Democracy and actively participated in the Tanzania International Model United Nations in 2022. Her involvement in international forums underscores her dedication to fostering collaboration and understanding on a global scale.
Looking forward, Liz Lum envisions a world where young people are not merely beneficiaries but equal partners in leadership, policy development, and decision-making processes. Her ultimate goal is to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for youth to actively contribute to shaping a more just and inclusive future.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day, Liz Lum stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the spirit of empowerment and resilience needed to build a world where every voice, regardless of age or gender, is heard and valued.
