Kane Khondowe reflects on the power of mentorship and the courage it takes to embrace the unknown.
Welcome to “Voices of Change,” a blog series dedicated to sharing the transformative stories of individuals who have participated in our Women in WASH Mentorship Program, in collaboration with the Rural Water Supply Network. Through the eyes of these emerging leaders, we witness the power of mentorship, cultural exchange, and professional growth within the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector.
We invite you to explore these stories with us and join in celebrating the inspiring individuals who are shaping the future of WASH!
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Someone once said, “Sometimes, letting go is an act of far greater power than hanging on.”
I am learning this truth both professionally and personally. Letting go of my secure job to step into a completely different world was daunting. Meeting new people, experiencing a different culture, and gaining deeper knowledge felt overwhelming. Leaving my family behind was a courageous act. I was certain I wanted to further my studies, but the thought of spending two years in an entirely new environment, then returning home to start the job search from scratch, deeply unsettled me.
After a long period of indecision and deep reflection, I finally resolved to face my fears and pursue my studies. One month into this new environment, I came across a LinkedIn post inviting applications for the Rural Water Supply Network and Women in WASH mentorship programs. At that point, I knew it was exactly what I needed. I had been seeking that opportunity. I remember applying for the mentorship program in 2023 when it was just Women in WASH, but I wasn’t accepted. This time, I was determined. I knew this mentorship was essential for the new journey I had begun. I applied and was thrilled to be accepted.
I have always valued mentorship and have been guided by different people at various stages of my life. However, apart from my experience with the AWSPN-Zambian chapter, I had never participated in a formal, large-scale mentorship program like this one. Using the PushFar platform was an incredible experience. It provided a mentorship forum where mentees and mentors could connect and network. As a mentee, you choose a mentor based on their profile and alignment with your goals. The process of setting and completing goals was exceptional and deeply rewarding.
I set my goals clearly. I knew what I wanted to achieve during the program and what I hoped to gain from it. That clarity helped me select my mentor, Dr. Onabolu Boluwaji. From our very first meeting, I knew I had made the right choice. During that session, she shared her life’s journey into WASH and the milestones she’s achieved. Her story inspired me and helped me envision a future in WASH. One meeting led to another, and soon we lost count. She exposed me to new challenges, organizations, connections, and knowledge.
Of course, like any mentorship setup, we faced challenges. Busy schedules beyond our control meant we couldn’t meet as often as planned. Still, her guidance was transformative. Through her mentorship, I became a member of the International Water Association (IWA), something I hadn’t considered before. Her network introduced me to people, webinars, and platforms that expanded my knowledge of water and related issues.
Our relationship wasn’t confined to formal meetings. She often shared inspirational messages via WhatsApp and created a Circle of Trust called ‘Young Ladies Going Somewhere Big.’ This space fosters conversations and builds relationships among us. We’ve both agreed to continue our relationship beyond the program.
My mentorship journey with Dr. Onabolu has been transformative, giving me the confidence and courage I lacked when I began my master’s studies. Her encouragement and support have been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this program has provided.
Kane Khondowe