Zuena
Kenya
Most of the stories featured here highlight women who have survived and healed from obstetric fistula or other childbirth injuries. Zuena’s story is different — and equally inspiring. As a youth advocate and leader in Kenya, Zuena is helping prevent fistula before it occurs by educating her peers and community about reproductive health and the importance of staying in school.
Zuena is a student in Bungoma County, Kenya, where she serves as Treasurer of the Young Champions Fistula Club (YCFC). For the past three years, she has been an active member of the club, participating in every leadership training offered by the Let’s End Fistula Initiative (LEFI) team.
Zuena’s journey as a youth advocate began with courage. “I did not fear,” she says. “This position has really helped me, and the education I’ve received through this organization has allowed me to improve the lives of other girls.”
During school holidays, Zuena dedicates her time to raising awareness about obstetric fistula in her village and church — a condition that was previously unknown to many in her community. She educates others about its causes, dangers, and how it can be prevented and treated. Her outreach has helped shift perceptions and build understanding around maternal health.
Her leadership extends to her peers at school, where she speaks openly about reproductive health and the risks of early pregnancy. With remarkable empathy and determination, she encourages fellow students to stay in school and delay marriage. Her efforts have made a visible impact: both her school and village have reported a notable reduction in teenage pregnancies.
Tell yourself, “I’m a leader.” Because a leader is someone who inspires others to do more, become more, and think more.
Zuena’s advocacy has also opened doors to broader platforms. She was invited to speak at Diamond Trust Bank, which supports girls from low-income backgrounds, and met representatives from TV47 News who expressed interest in featuring her story nationally. Local hospitals and clinics now recognize her as a trusted youth leader.
Her message to other young people is one of empowerment and purpose: “If you take this seriously and work according to your ability, you are going to change many lives…trust in yourself, and tell yourself, ‘I’m a leader.’ Because a leader is someone who inspires others to do more, become more, and think more.”
Zuena’s story is an example of how youth leadership can transform communities. Through the Young Champions Fistula Club and LEFI’s support, she has become a true change maker — proving that young people can play a vital role in ending obstetric fistula and empowering their peers.
