The All Africa Conference on Sister to Sister recorded a milestone as 39 sisters who had undergone Leadership training for 3 years graduated during a colourful ceremony at Kalundu Conference Centre in Lusaka on 17th February 2025. The event was officiated by the new Chairperson (President) for the Zambia Association of Sisterhoods, Sr Valeria Kabaso. Below is her officiating speech.

Esteemed faculty, Secretary General Sr. Muleya, and most importantly, the remarkable graduates of today’s Leadership Training Program, It is a profound honor to stand before you today as the Guest of Honour at this momentous occasion. Today, we gather to celebrate a journey of growth, achievement, and promise—a journey that each of you, our graduates, has undertaken with courage and dedication.

To our graduates today marks the culmination of months—if not years—of hard work, perseverance, and determination. You have committed yourselves not only to academic excellence but also to personal and leadership development. You have chosen a path that demands responsibility, integrity, and service, and today, you have proven yourselves ready to lead. Leadership is not defined by titles or positions. It is defined by the impact we have on others, the compassion we show, and the courage with which we serve. As sisters, you already embody many of the most essential traits of true leadership—empathy, commitment to community, and an unwavering moral compass. Leadership is never easy. It demands vision, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. But as you step into new roles and embrace new challenges, know that your foundation is strong. You are prepared not only to lead but to empower others, to lift those around you, and to create spaces where all can thrive. As you move forward—whether in your communities, workplaces, or families—embrace every opportunity to lead with humility and integrity. True leadership begins with service. It is in the quiet acts of kindness and in the bold steps toward justice that real change begins.

You do not stand here today as individuals alone—you stand as role models. The path you have walked will light the way for many others who follow. The knowledge, skills, and bonds you have formed will carry you far beyond this day. This is not the end of your journey—it is a powerful beginning.

To the major superiors and fellow Sisters who have supported these graduates—thank you. Your mentorship and belief in them have been instrumental in their success. Your guidance will continue to shape their journey as leaders.

To our valued funders, we offer our deepest gratitude. In particular, we wish to recognize Sr. Rosemary Jefferies, Executive Director of Sister to Sister in the USA. Your generosity has been vital in bringing this program to life. Your support has empowered these women to dream bigger, lead with confidence, and make a lasting difference in their communities. Because of your belief in this cause, we have provided a platform where leadership skills are not only taught but lived. You have helped shape leaders who will rise to challenges, embrace change, and serve with compassion and integrity. Your impact will echo far beyond today—it will be felt in the lives touched by these graduates for generations to come.

To the presenters and facilitators of this program—the AACSS Team—thank you for your tireless efforts. Your dedication and expertise have equipped these graduates with the tools they need to lead effectively and ethically. You have been mentors, guides, and role models, and your influence will be long-lasting.

To our graduates: as you leave here today, remember to continue learning, growing, and serving with purpose. The world needs leaders like you—leaders grounded in truth, driven by kindness, and committed to creating lasting, positive change.

Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. May your light continue to shine brightly as you inspire, lead, and transform the world around you.