Irene Cheruto Chemelei

Today, Irene works closely with community members, particularly digitally connected young people, using both physical and online platforms to increase awareness on human rights and harmful cultural practices. She leads mentorship programmes in schools and safe spaces, conducts advocacy through social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram, hosts discussions on local radio stations including Kokwo, Kalya, North Rift, and Aperit FM, and facilitates online conversations through youth advocacy spaces such as the West Pokot Youths Anti-FGM WhatsApp network.

Her work has directly reached more than 2,000 people across the county. She has facilitated over 30 mentorship programmes in schools, led four intergenerational dialogues on FGM in Pokot Central, organised five anti-FGM campaigns in partnership with the Anti-FGM Board, and supported the rescue of 25 girls who were at risk of FGM and child marriage. She has worked closely with rescue centres and schools to ensure the girls continue with their education.

One rescue remains especially close to her heart.

One evening, Irene received a call about a young girl who had escaped from home after her father attempted to force her into marriage in exchange for cattle. The girl was in Class Eight and preparing for her KCPE examinations. Having already lost her mother in a gold-mining accident, she suddenly found herself running for her life.

Irene immediately stepped in. She secured a place for the girl at Ortum Girls Primary School, only to discover that she had already been registered for KCPE at her former school in Pokot North, where those pursuing her were still searching for her. Working closely with the chief and the police, Irene ensured the girl received security throughout the examination period while she remained in constant communication with the officers handling the case. The girl completed her examinations safely, performed well, and was later admitted to Propoi Girls Secondary School, where she is now in Form Four.

For Irene, this case reminded her that timely intervention, strong partnerships, and determination can completely change the direction of a girl’s life.

The work has not been without challenges. Funding limitations have made it difficult to reach every community, especially those in remote areas where harmful practices remain common. Political interference has also slowed progress, as some leaders avoid speaking openly against FGM for fear of losing political support. Despite these challenges, Irene continues to push forward because she believes every girl deserves protection regardless of where she comes from.

One of the strengths of Irene’s work is her focus on building sustainable community structures. Through community dialogues led alongside chiefs and local leaders, mentorship programmes in schools, and community surveillance groups established in FGM hotspot areas, she has helped create referral systems that continue functioning even without her direct presence. These groups have strengthened trust, encouraged early reporting, and made it possible to rescue girls before they are subjected to FGM or forced marriage.

Responsibility is the value that guides Irene’s work. To her, sisterhood means women taking collective responsibility for protecting one another and standing together to address the issues affecting girls and women. She believes women are strongest when they work together rather than waiting for others to solve their problems.

Through the Sister to Sister Initiative, Irene says she rediscovered the importance of self-care and mental wellness. One lesson that has stayed with her is, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” She values the opportunity to learn from women across different communities, exchange experiences, and strengthen her skills as a grassroots advocate.