Participation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Women's Summit, Kinshasa, DRC

The second edition of the Women Summit was held in Kinshasa on February 15, 2025, an event initiated in 2023 by the MWASI YA MUTUYA foundation with the support of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This summit has become a great framework for reflection. Women from various political, cultural, economic, scientific, and religious backgrounds come together to create resources for building a better society.

Sister Angélique, an Area Organization Advisor in the Africa Central Area, actively participated in this summit to highlight the Church's commitment to supporting the education, development, and empowerment of women.

The choir Éclairer le Monde, made up of about 50 volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was invited to perform the National Anthem, and entertain the participants with musical performance.

First Panel: Edification through Experience

The first panel showcased several influential women:

• Sister Angélique Tarr emphasized the significant contributions of women, girls, and children to society. She stated, “Everything starts in the family. A woman can greatly contribute to the development of society. This is why it is essential to support her without discrimination by highlighting her value and the potential bestowed upon her by the creator.”
• Mrs. Marie Bampende, the Provincial Minister of Gender in Kasaï Central, denounced early marriages and urged young girls to pursue their education. She stated, “We must encourage young girls not to abandon their studies for marriage before the legal required age. Women, have confidence in yourselves; your future is in your hands.”
• Nathalie Kambala LUSE, the country coordinator for the NGO Femmes Main dans la Main pour le Développement Intégral (FMMDI), emphasized the importance of rejecting abuse and reporting it. She stated, "In today's cultural context, it is essential for women and girls to learn to say no to abuse and to report it, as doing so can prevent others from becoming victims."
• Odia Kabakele, a beautician, hairdresser, photographer, fashion designer, and business leader, emphasized the importance of continuing education: “As long as you don’t train yourself, you will become deformed.”

Second Panel: Perspectives and Challenges

• Caroline Pindi Norah, president of the Association of Women Architects of Congo and coordinator of the NGO Mille et Un Espoir, encouraged women to believe in their potential: “You have the power to turn your dreams into reality. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.”
• Mrs. Catherine Fuhara Katungu, Honorary Minister of Culture and Arts, inspired the audience with her political journey, stating: "Culture is a reflection of our identity. As women, we create a rich and diverse future when we overcome the barriers of prejudice and value our skills."
• Julia Luhonga Mamba, lawyer, entrepreneur, and CEO of Mandiko Holding, motivated participants by saying: "Entrepreneurship is a daring adventure. Dare to take risks, and you will see opportunities arise. Have a strong mindset, believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people who believe in you."
• Mrs. Sylvie Komotir, an expert at Fonds de Garantie de l'Entrepreneuriat au Congo (FOGEC), emphasized the importance of legalizing your activities to obtain official assistance: "Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. Persevere, and you will discover strengths within yourself that you never knew existed."