The African Union Commission (AUC) has rolled out an initiative to document the stories and contributions of African women and girls in making a difference, through demonstrated exceptional leadership on the continent. The outcome of which will be a book to be published in 2021. The initiative is being implemented by the Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (WGYD),

There remains many untold stories of women and girls, their successes, opportunities and challenges as they strive to achieve effective and meaningful participation in leading the political and socio-economic development of the continent. Documenting the stories of these women and girls will be crucial evidence of the potential of women and girls to lead and leave legacies of success.

The book will celebrate and honour the leadership and achievements of African women and girls in various sectors as they share their leadership experiences, triumphs and impact and in turn inspire other girls and women to see beyond the existing structural barriers and to strive for excellence and contribute fully and meaningfully to their communities and nation contributing to Africa’s collective vision for an integrate, prosperous and peaceful Africa. The initiative is expected to enhance advocacy initiatives targeting  governments and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment and support female leaders and their enterprises.

The women and girls to be featured in the book will be self-nominated or be nominated by others, and the submissions are to reach the WGYD Directorate by the 30^th of June 2021. The WGYD Directorate through a diverse review panel will then proceed to vet, authenticate and select the stories to be included in the book. Read more about the initiative and the nominations criteria here.