Thelma Awori

Thelma Awori is a Ugandan professor, former Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Quotes

• I call myself a feminist because I am staunch believer in justice for women and the validity of women’s perspectives.
  • Her role of being a feminist

• A fresh struggle to overcome new manifestations of patriarchy is constantly beginning; and it seems a matter of perpetuity.
  • Challenges in feminism

• Rural women inspire me. They are the passion of my life and I will do everything and anything for their empowerment. Their knowledge and expertise are crying for a receptive ear, for powerful questions that will unearth and challenge their wisdom.
  • Inspiration she gets from women in the rural area

• The change has been tremendous. People now know what the gender agenda is, they might fear it in some places, but they now know.
  • Her reply when asked if we there is a progress on how society perceives women

• If anything were to happen to me today, I have no worries because I know these young women will carry this struggle until we get it right.
  • Her confidence in women

• You have to keep your eyes sharp all the time and be very analytical. When you see something coming, you have to ask what it is and how it will affect women.
  • Her advice to young activists

• Be persistent! Be professional! You don’t have to be aggressive; be persistent, and people will know who you are, where you stand, and what you can’t compromise on. Walk the talk!
  • Secret ingredient that has worked for her to win over skeptics

• Build on the strength of women!
  • Empowering message she would display if she had the chance to erect a billboard