Lydiah Owiti-Otienoh

What are you passionate about? What are you doing about it? I have always been passionate about giving back to humanity especially when it has to do with healthcare and healthy living,creating a safe spaces for people to thrive, helping people have a better living and creating the change that I desire to see in the world, therefore anywhere and everywhere I found myself, I always identified with communities of people whose vision and passion aligned with mine. #humanitarianservices Little wonder even today, I am passionate about creating awareness, educating and sensitizing young girls around the globe about menstrual health and hygiene starting with my country Nigeria, one girl at a time. It's been four years since I worked with Seed Africa, Malawi as a ProjectCoordinator for the Mask Initiative which was setup for the safety of humanity, we created and distributed two-ply face masks for healthcare workers and different communities in Blantyre, Malawi during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social workers are often at the forefront of tackling challenges, but they can be vulnerable themselves if they lack proper protection. Recognizing this, our team felt it was crucial to prioritize the safety of healthcare workers battling COVID-19. We provided them with reusable face masks, a significant step in safeguarding their well-being. Especially for social workers in healthcare, prioritizing our own safety is essential before serving the community. You should be mentally and physically prepared to handle the diverse needs of the people you cater for on a daily. Remember, to save others sufficiently and effectively, you must save yourself first. #safety #healthconscious #seedafrica #humanitarianservicesconsultant #humanitarian #mofetoluwaaransiola #tbt #Communityhealth #givingisliving #publichealth

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Happy to be part of the team that contributed to the development of the technical brief on the integration work in Family Planning, Adolescent Health, and Biodiversity Conservation in Fisheries. I provided input on issues in the sector highlighting areas requiring linkages. The work demonstrates how sectors such as Health and Environment need to collaborate for optimal impact, resulting in access to services such as FP and Health for economic gains and improved livelihoods within the fishing communities https://bit.ly/4cCrogv

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When doing fund raising monitoring, evaluation, and planning, it is best to work as a team. Your Program Manager will give valuable insights on the situation 'on the ground' and the needs of the communities you serve. Your Finance Manager will clarify your costs versus donations received. Your Database Officer can give you details on your donors and metrics on your past campaigns. While, you, as the Fund Raising Manager will consolidate all of their inputs to come up with a fool-proof medium-term plan. Fund raising is never a one-person job and so, for our second set of workshops this year, we highly encourage group registration to maximize the effectiveness of the evaluation and planning activities. Register three (3) or more participants from your organization and receive a special discount! Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your team's fund raising skills while saving on costs. Secure your seats today and get ready to take your fund raising efforts to the next level! Registration Form: https://buff.ly/3Sl5Yg1 https://buff.ly/3Sl5Yg1 https://buff.ly/3Sl5Yg1 If you wish to learn more, check out our Workshop Primer here: https://lnkd.in/gUBNqRvp 🗓️ Workshop Dates Fund Raising Monitoring and Evaluation Workshop: October 8, 2024 Fund Raising Planning Workshop: October 9-11, 2024 Don't hesitate to message us through our Facebook page if you have any questions! #Courses #Workshops #Fundraising #fundraisingcourse #fundraisingworkshop #fundraising #friendraising #nongovermentorganization #nonprofit #corporatesocialresponsibility #publicinformation #research #training #consulting #capacitybuilding #ventureforfundraising #venture #vfr

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🌟 Grateful to be part of the Young Women Led Stakeholders Roundtable Kwale County Forum! 🙌 My heartfelt thanks to Akili Dada for bringing together stakeholders and convening this impactful forum. 🙏 I also learned about their active programs: 1. 🌟 Angaza 2. 🌟 Urithi 3. 🌟 Washa Program Under these programs, we discussed: - 📜 The Kwale SGBV Act 2023 - 📊 Aligning the Act's implementation and budget for FY 2024/2025 - 📝 Developed a blueprint/action plan for identified gaps, including commencing the preparation of a petition to compel the county government to realign the budget and fund the operationalization of the Kwale SGBV Act 2023 in the upcoming supplementary budget in September 2024.. I gained insights into: - 🎯 The objectives of the Act - 🏛️ The process of creating an Act (Policy > Act > Regulations) - 📚 Characteristics of Policy: P - Policy, O - Objectives, L - Limitations, I - Intimacy, C - Consistency, Y - Yields - ✍️ Key components of drafting a policy: 1. Drafting 2. Consolidation 3. Public participation 4. Lobbying (formal and informal) We concluded with a fruitful networking session where I forged new friendships, unlocked 2 opportunities for our youth in Kwale, and identified areas of synergy with all stakeholders present. 🌐🤝 #HamasishaDada #StawishaDada #KwaleSGBVAct2023 #WomenEmpowerment #PolicyMaking #YouthOpportunities #Networking #CommunityDevelopment

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Where you live should not determine if you get access to healthcare. At Watsi we believe that every person deserves equal access to quality care, regardless of their location or socio-economic status. Join us in our mission to ensure health access for all. Learn more about our work and how you can get involved: https://watsi.org/ #HealthAccessForAll #EquityInHealthcare"

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I found this report (you can click on a link for the full report within the article attached) authored by a team at The Bridgespan Group interesting and spot on from so many different perspectives. 1. The first grant is pivotal. In our case at the Agape Empowerment Center, we know that we have a bold plan to transform the country of Liberia, the eighth poorest on the planet, but we also know nothing happens without a large capital infusion ($10-15 million) from a mega donor(s) who understands the potential significant return on their philanthropic investment. 2. Staff development moves the needle. From an operational perspective, we know that change will only happen if we invest resources on an annual basis to grow the skillset of our teachers, administrators and caretakers. For the children to realize opportunities beyond their current real world experience, they need leaders around them who have expanded their horizons. 3. The authors talk about funding from within the country versus receiving support from international sources. I can't agree more from a capital perspective. However, again operationally, this model only works if it becomes self sustaining through a variety of resources (i.e. agricultural endeavors and annual fund raising in the U.S. as currently tuition is the only source of revenue available in country and that is small). We would like to think the business acumen and connectivity we bring to the table will make not only make this annual task feasible, but provide assurance to a high net worth individual(s) that an investment in initial capital expenses will be well invested in a sustainable model. 4. At the end of the day, our NGO in Liberia combined with the resources within our 501c3 in the U.S. is a wonderful hybrid model especially since our senior board members will be hands on (will be on the ground many months of the year) with our wonderful Liberian leaders. This is critical for the sustainability of the organization and again points to the need for upfront flexible capital funding to build the infrastructure. From that point, we need to lift up Liberian staff to replicate this template throughout the country and demonstrate to ongoing operational investors the success of the model. We agree with the authors that here is much to do to break down the historical barriers that hold African NGOs back from reaching their full potential. We also believe that this hybrid model will help realize the enormous potential of the NGO and provide support not realized in most developing countries. Join us, won't you? https://lnkd.in/eDnrvXpa #agape #liberia #joinus https://lnkd.in/gpnvPzfV

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*TWENTY WAYS TO BE AN OUTSTANDING STAFF* 1. Be at work on time 2. Avoid eye service 3. Don't argue with your boss 4. Follow instructions 5. Stick to the schedule 6. Give sincere and diligent service 7. Get along with others 8. Stop showing interest in other peoples duty 9. Don't look for shortcuts 10. Take criticism wisely 11. Drop your home problems at home 12. Don't take anybody for granted 13. Do not gossip 14. Don't envy your colleagues or those ahead of you 15. Don't demand reward for every service rendered 16. Share your experience with others as no one is permanent to an office even the Permanent Secretary (PS) is not permanent to the office. 17. Respect people's privacy 18. Take responsibility for all your actions 19. Give priority to official assignments and treat official documentations with utmost confidentiality 20. Above all, be patient, humble honest and loyal *Please kindly read it again and again *🤷🏻‍♂️

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Today, we honour World Population Day by reaffirming our commitment to women's health and rights. There is a need to continue investing intentionally in data, finance, and stories that drive progress. We call on the president of the Republic of Kenya and relevant entities to prioritize women's health and gender segregation data collection. #ZamaraVoices #WPD2024

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What happens to KPs when African countries begin to own and start funding their own HIV response? I fear that the already marginalised communities of sex workers ,lgbtiq persons and people that use and inject drugs will be left out of this conversation around meaningful and ethical engagement of all stakeholders as and when it comes to dealing with responding to issues around services and resources for all persons affected and living with HIV/AIDS.

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I’m eager to hear start-up-related insights from President Ruto’s #US visit. #Kenya has been an African regional hub for many US-based startups. President Ruto being the first African leader to have a US State visit in 16 years. There are so many sentiments this carries. I’m eager to hear the #Startup related insight. 1️⃣ Do we expect to see the number of US-based startups increase in setting up shop in Kenya? 2️⃣ Should we expect funding from IS to increase? Has anybody seen such insight or can you share what you think? Whatever it is, all eyes on #Kenya and #Africa

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Since 2019, I have been advocating for the right to play for refugee children living in Dzaleka Refugee Camp, a camp in Malawi that nearly 60,000 people call home. My work has included designing various educational programs, restructuring curricula, building capacity within the teaching force, and leading a massive advocacy campaign emphasizing the importance of play for not only children’s lives but the entire community. This year, in partnership with refugee-led community-based organizations, I am organizing a whole-day event at Dzaleka Refugee Camp to celebrate and communicate the power of play in building resilience and promoting peace in crisis settings. Since I first stepped into Dzaleka, my primary focus has been on children's most essential activity — observing how they play, how they express themselves through various forms of play, and how integral they are to the world through their play. There is something called asset framing, which is a narrative strategy that defines people by their potential and positive contributions rather than their challenges or deficits. Many will agree that this is not usually the lens through which humanitarians and development organizations define the communities they serve. I found in children’s play a powerful phenomenon that allowed me to look at and interact with the community through an empowering lens. Not just children benefit from playing, but the entire community surrounding them. Through play, children and adults strengthen bonds in profound ways, greatly contributing to holistic child development. When children and adults play together, it enhances trust, respect, and solidarity among community members. One initiative that I have supported since its inception is a playgroup for refugee children who were not attending school during the COVID-19 pandemic (please note that “lockdown” wasn’t a reality in communities where basic services are scarce and social welfare doesn’t exist). The playgroup still exists today, and many wonderful initiatives have grown out of it. Social cohesion, innovation, support, hope—that’s the power of play. On Saturday, I will join them to host an event celebrating the International Day of Play. This event marks a significant achievement in advancing children’s right to play in Dzaleka Refugee Camp, and I am very proud of it! #RightToPlay #ChildRights #RefugeeChildren #EducationForAll #Humanitarianwork #PlayMatters #CommunityBuilding #SocialCohesion #PeaceBuilding #InternationalDayOfPlay #CommunityDevelopment #RefugeeSupport Right To Play, Rotary International, Save the Children International, UNICEF, The LEGO Foundation, Early Childhood Development Action Network (ECDAN)

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Reflecting on Ciata Stevens d'Almeida , Executive Director of the President's Young Professionals Program, presentation on Building and Sustaining Relationships at the Emerging Public Leaders Inaugural Alumni Network Conference in Nairobi, Kenya. She emphasized that we need relationships to build community, to give meaning, and to win allies. Highlights of key tips provided included: 1. Establish relationships before you need them in the future. 2. Be friendly and make connections one person at a time. 3. Ask questions. 4. Tell people about yourself. 5. Go places and do things. 6. Accept people the way they are. 7. Assume that others want to form a relationship too. 8. Overcome your fear of rejection. 9. Be Persistent. And the list goes on and on...

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🌍 Reducing Recidivism in Kenya Did you know that the fight against recidivism in Kenya’s prisons, like in Nairobi county prisons goes beyond just incarcerating offenders? It's a a challenge that demands comprehensive strategies and community support. When it comes to factors influencing recidivism, I discovered some eye-opening insights: 🔹 Rehabilitation Programs: Effective rehabilitation programs are critical. Programs focusing on education, vocational training, and psychological support significantly lower re-offense rates. 🔹 Community Reintegration: Successful reintegration into society is paramount. Former inmates need robust support systems, including family acceptance, employment opportunities, and community programs that foster a sense of belonging and purpose. 🔹 Policy and Governance: Strong policies that promote fair treatment, human rights, and post-release monitoring play a crucial role in reducing recidivism. The government's involvement and the implementation of evidence-based practices are essential. 🔹 Socio-Economic Factors: Addressing underlying socio-economic issues such as poverty, lack of education, and unemployment is fundamental. These factors often contribute to criminal behavior and re-offending. It's time we shift our perspective from punishment to rehabilitation and support. By investing in comprehensive programs and community-based strategies, we can create a safer society and give former inmates a real chance at a fresh start.At Safer Communities Alliance #Recidivism #Kenya #PrisonReform #CommunitySupport #Rehabilitation #SocialChange

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In One Day! We discuss Adolescents and young adults 12-30 years who are frequently reluctant to seek SRHR and services. In Kigezi Sub Region, adolescent health and development is constrained by the understanding of and implementation of the relevant policies to practice locally. CEHURD Uganda Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Alliance Uganda ActionAid International Uganda National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Uganda Women in Global Health UN Women

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🌍✨ inABLE Inclusive Conference Africa 2024, Radisson, Kenya🌍✨ Theme; ‘Breaking Barriers; Advancing Digital Accessibility for a Disability Inclusive Future in Africa’. I was honored to moderate a deeply impactful panel discussion on #Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a topic that is central to our mission at Amali Organization. Our focus was on the intersection of GBV and the unique challenges faced by women and girls, especially our siblings living with disabilities (PWD). This discussion echoed the vital work of the #ENDFEMICIDEKE Movement, where we join thousands of others in the fight to end #femicide cases across Kenya. GBV is a global crisis, but it disproportionately affects PWD, amplifying their vulnerabilities and barriers to seeking help. Our panel explored these critical issues and the urgent need for inclusive support systems. Here are some key takeaways from our session: 🔹 Awareness & Advocacy: Elevating the voices of PWD in discussions about GBV is crucial. We must advocate for policies that protect and empower all individuals, regardless of their abilities. 🔹 Inclusive Services: Service providers need to be trained to understand and address the specific needs of PWD survivors of GBV. This includes accessible shelters, counseling, and legal support. 🔹 Community Engagement: Building inclusive communities means engaging everyone in the conversation about preventing GBV. Collaboration between policymakers, NGOs, and community leaders is key to driving meaningful change. The conference featured the AT Village, where 20 innovators from across Africa showcased their cutting-edge digital accessibility and assistive technology innovations. A big thank you to all the panelists and attendees for their invaluable contributions and insights. Together, we can create a more inclusive and safe society for everyone. #InclusiveConferenceAfrica #GBV #PWD #Inclusion #SustainableDevelopment #GenderEquality #Empowerment #RadissonEvents #INABLE

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