2020
Akinyi Osanjo
- Age: 27
- | She/her/hers
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Expertise Areas:
In advocacy work, restoration of humanity and dignity should be the focal point to base all discussions. More emphasis should be put on grassroots interventions.
- Akinyi Osanjo
Bio
Askinyi Osanjo is originally from Kenya and currently lives in Rwanda. She is working toward a Bachelor of Arts in Global Challenges with a focus on international development, policymaking, and gender studies at African Leadership University. Currently, Askinyi is working on her capstone project called ‘the asylum project’ that pays homage and advocates for LGBTQIA+ refugees inclusion from the Great Lakes and Southern Africa and examines the influence of digital advocacy in the campaign for social justice. As an Editorial Assistant Intern at African Leadership University, Askinyi is responsible for aligning the first Global Challenges journal, formulating call for papers drafts, composing papers of instructions and timelines, and developing marketing strategies. Additionally, Askinyi is a Social Transformation Committee member at ALU Rwanda, Residential Advisor, the Secretary to ALU Editorial Board, and a YaLa 2016 Young Leader for the Citizen Journalism cohort.
What ignited your pursuit for gender equality?
When my country, Kenya, did not lift the ban on the criminalization of gay rights in Kenya and catalyzed the marginalization, discrimination, and prosecution of gender identity persons, I took notice and wanted to participate in advocacy.
Please share your biggest wins as an advocate for gender equality.
When students in my school became more aware of gender identity persons and the need for dignity surrounding their plights. The more conversations are stirred, the more awareness is created.
Outside of your gender equality advocacy work, what do you enjoy doing?
Reading books, binging documentaries on Netflix, yoga, and meditation.
Languages Spoken:
- English (Advanced/Native)
- Kiswahili (Advanced/Native)
Publications:
Speaks On:
- gender pay gap advocacy for minority groups
- healthcare inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community
- advocacy for LGBTQIA+ refugees
Past Awards, Certifications, or Fellowships:
- YaLa Citizen Journalism Fellowship Certification with distinction
- Red Cross Training Certification
- YaLa Young Leaders Citizen Journalism Fellow (2016)
