The Dr. Ngeyi Kanyongolo Leadership Award
Recognizing 160 Girls VJC leaders who exemplify courage, compassion, and dedication to equality and human rights.
Dr. Ngeyi Kanyongolo – human rights mentor and Equality Effect founding sister
The Dr. Ngeyi Kanyongolo Leadership Award honors Dr. Kanyongolo’s legacy as a human rights mentor and Equality Effect founding sister. It annually recognizes 160 Girls VJC leaders who exemplify courage, compassion, and dedication to equality and human rights.
In its first year, 10 VJC members from different VJC schools demonstrated outstanding equality leadership—mentoring peers, supporting survivors of sexual violence, and fostering community dialogue. These young leaders reflect Dr. Kanyongolo’s passion for human rights and her generosity of spirit as a mentor.
2025 Dr. Ngeyi Kanyongolo Leadership Award Recipients:
Ten 160 Girls VJC leaders were honored for their 160 Girls dedication and equality rights commitment in 2025. The following award recipients’ stories highlight the leadership excellence created through the VJC, and celebrated through the Dr. Kanyongolo award:
“Even as a girl, I can help others find justice.”
2025 Dr. Ngeyi Kanyongolo Leadership Award Recipient Iddah Atieno (Maguti, 14)
Ethan Jezreel, age 9
“I wanted her to feel safe again.”
Ethan Jezreel from Deshafo: When a survivor in his neighborhood was too afraid to walk alone, Ethan, the youngest award recipient, walked with her, encouraged her, and intervened when peers mocked her by reporting the bullying to teachers. “I wanted her to feel safe again.”
Iddah Atieno, age 14
“Even as a girl, I can help others find justice.”
Iddah Atieno from Maguti: Used the VJC Help Request tool to report a six-year-old neighbor’s defilement, later uncovering two more cases of defilement and ensuring survivors receive access to justice. “Even as a girl, I can help others find justice.”
MaryAnne Precious, age 13
Inspiring peers
MaryAnne Precious of Homa Bay Christian: Approached challenging community members on her own initiative during the 160 Girls Justice Journal distribution, expanding VJC reach and inspiring peers to speak up.
Fidel Odhiambo, age 13
Raising awareness
Fidel Odhiambo of Ndiru: Raised equality awareness by addressing ridicule of boys supporting girls’ rights. Fidel was elected school Deputy President by 700 peers and now advocates for human rights in school governance.
Additional 2025 Recipients
Other 2025 award recipients include Avril Achieng (Got Kochungo, 14), Joash Brandon (Rabuor Masawa, 15), Sweeney Atieno (Lieta Kabunde, 14), Hellen Precious (Lala, 15), and Snaida Atieno (Pedo, 13) — all of whom played key VJC roles in mentoring, community engagement, and peer leadership.
A Legacy of Human Rights Leadership
These young 160 Girls VJC leaders embody Dr. Kanyongolo’s commitment to justice and equality, highlighting the value of youth leadership in building safer, fairer communities. Together we celebrate Dr. Kanyongolo’s legacy and the next generation of equality advocates!
Learn more about The Equality Effect