Mary Mgawe is a Tanzanian journalist and founder of the Arise and Shine Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports girls and young women who have experienced gender-based violence in Tanzania. She is also a Senior Reporter and Producer for Voice of America (VOA) in Washington, D.C., where she covers various topics related to Africa, including health, human rights, and gender equality.
Mgawe’s passion for journalism began at a young age when she witnessed the lack of media coverage on issues affecting women and girls in Tanzania. She pursued a career in journalism to use her voice and platform to make a difference in her community. Throughout her career, Mgawe has produced award-winning stories that have shed light on critical issues affecting women and girls in Tanzania and across Africa.
Her reporting has highlighted the impact of female genital mutilation, child marriage, and gender-based violence on the lives of women and girls, sparking important conversations and action towards ending these harmful practices. Her work with the VOA and Arise and Shine Foundation has created positive change and raised awareness about critical issues affecting women and girls in Tanzania and across Africa.
Arise and Shine Foundation is a 501(c) non-profit public charity focusing on social economic empowerment, education empowerment, gender equality, and sexual reproductive health and rights. The foundation provides girls and young women with the tools and resources they need to achieve their full potential and lead healthy, fulfilling lives through various programs and initiatives. The organization also takes action to address gender-based violence and female genital mutilation in Tanzania. It encourages individuals to report incidents of violence and abuse by calling the toll-free number 116 or by contacting the organization directly.
Mgawe’s dedication and passion for gender equality and social justice have inspired many others to take action and make a difference in their communities. She is a true role model for women and girls everywhere, and her work with Arise and Shine Foundation significantly impacts the lives of those who need it most. Her journalism career and her work with Arise and Shine Foundation both create positive change and empower women and girls in Tanzania and beyond.
Mary Mgawe’s work with Arise and Shine Foundation is deeply personal to her. Growing up in Tanzania, she has seen firsthand the impact of gender-based violence and the lack of resources and support for girls and young women. She founded Arise and Shine Foundation to provide a safe and supportive environment for these girls and young women to heal, learn, and thrive.
Mgawe’s commitment to gender equality and social justice extends beyond her work with Arise and Shine Foundation. As a journalist, she uses her platform to raise awareness about critical issues affecting women and girls in Tanzania and across Africa. Her reporting has shed light on topics such as maternal health, child marriage, and female genital mutilation and has sparked important conversations and action towards ending these harmful practices.
Mgawe’s impact on journalism and gender equality in Africa cannot be overstated. Her dedication and passion for making a difference in her community have inspired countless others to use their voices and platforms to create positive change. She is a true role model for aspiring journalists and advocates for women’s rights everywhere.
Through her work with the VOA and Arise and Shine Foundation, Mary Mgawe creates a brighter future for girls and young women in Tanzania and beyond. Her tireless efforts to promote gender equality and social justice significantly impact the lives of those who need it most, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to fight for a more just and equitable world.
