Sharon Matongo has been engaged with MCW Global for the last five years in several capacities – from an alumna to serving as Media and Communications Coordinator. The 28-year-old from Zimbabwe, who recently graduated from Columbia Law School reflects on her motivation to be a part of MCW Global and why the work of the organization and its affiliates has a crucial role in improving communities worldwide.
During her engagement, Sharon learned about the work done by MCW Global teams over the past 25 years. To her, each story she read or wrote revealed something special about the people who are a part of the organization.
Sharon attributes some of her achievements to MCW Global and eagerly awaits to witness the organization’s growth in the upcoming years.
“I have experienced the transformative impact of MCW Global’s work from my time as a mentee, then a mentor, and later, as an intern. Thousands of people can attest to MCW Global’s catalytic role in transforming their personal and professional lives, starting with me.”
While we are marking the 25th anniversary of the organization, Sharon looks back on a moment that stood out to her – a visit she made to the MC-Zambia Community Center in Chanyanya in 2022.
“I had gone to conduct a Media and Communications Training session with the Chanyanya-based team and got to meet some of the young students from the Literacy Program at the center. Spending a short afternoon with them was a highlight for me. They are a representation of the hope we have in the children and leaders of tomorrow who strive for progress in the face of adversities or limited opportunities.”
MCW Global Creating Opportunities and Building Bridges
When asked how the mission and values of MCW Global resonate with her, Sharon answers by referring to MCW Global’s T-shirts with the imprinted slogan “Local Change Through Global Exchange®”.
“I never struggle to respond to what this message means. The central concept of convening leaders from across the globe in one venue and preparing them to transform their respective communities is a daily reminder for me that no intervention is ever too small to address global problems that at times seem insurmountable.”
This aligns with her strong belief that MCW Global contributed to her personal and professional growth.
“Through MCW Global’s efforts and networks established, I have also been honored to participate in programs such as the Kofi Annan Changemakers’ Initiative and most recently, to complete an LL.M. at Columbia Law School. Beyond this, I have gained a phenomenal set of close friends and a wide network of leaders from whose wisdom I continually glean.”
In conclusion, Sharon shares her hopes and aspirations for the next years of MCW Global.
“I look forward to seeing the growth of MCW’s affiliates in Africa. I believe the teams in Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zambia are championing significant causes in education, health, and economic security, and am excited to witness their growth in capacity and impact.”
In addition, she hopes to witness greater collaboration among alumni of MCW Global’s different programs, from the Young Leaders Conference to the Oral Health Care programs in Tanzania.
Transforming Communities for 25 Years: Looking Back, Moving Forward Project brings to you a series of exclusive articles celebrating the 25th Anniversary of MCW Global. The stories and reflections shared represent the experiences and perspectives of individuals involved with the organization in various capacities, starting from alumni, board and team members, affiliates, supporters, and donors.