Delfina, 29 years old, married and mother of two, is a community trainer for the Empowering Women and Girls Project in Mozambique. Her motivation to promote women’s rights stems from her own experience within the community, where she witnessed recurring cases of school dropout, early unions, and limitations imposed on girls regarding their future. Determined to contribute to change, Delfina chose to take action within her own community.

Throughout her journey in the project, Delfina has mobilized a total of 1,000 women and girls, conducting awareness and capacity-building sessions on cross-cutting themes such as human rights, gender equality, inner power, and sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Her work has gone beyond awareness-raising  it has translated into concrete results.

In the field of education, Delfina contributed to the reintegration of 267 students into secondary education (from 8th to 12th grade), including some through the open and distance learning system, ensuring that young people who had dropped out due to social or economic reasons were given a second chance.

As part of the Women and Girls Empowerment Project in Mozambique, Delfina also mobilized 350 men and boys from Palmeiras community to participate in awareness sessions on human rights, gender equality, and their role in transforming social norms. As a result, 19 men and boys’ clubs were established, serving as community-based support mechanisms for social change. These clubs promote dialogue, help prevent gender-based violence, and encourage active participation in building a more just and inclusive community.

In the area of economic empowerment, Delfina facilitated practical training programs that opened new income-generating opportunities for many women in the community. She trained 56 women in tailoring, 567 in culinary skills, and more than 300 in sustainable agriculture, with the support of local technicians. As a result, several participants started small income-generating activities, strengthening their household economies and increasing their financial autonomy.

Her journey has not been without challenges. Initially, Delfina faced cultural resistance and skepticism regarding women’s active participation in decision-making processes. However, through community dialogues, engagement with local leaders, and continuous work with families, she gradually contributed to a shift in mindsets within Palmeiras community.

Today, women and girls who participated in her trainings have not only gained knowledge but have also taken on more active roles in family and community decision-making. Some have become local role models, sharing the information they received and encouraging others to participate.

Delfina Mauelele story shows that community transformation requires commitment, proximity, and consistent action. Her work demonstrates that when women and girls have access to information, skills, and opportunities, they become true agents of sustainable development within their communities.