IMALI NGUSALE

Born and raised in Kenya, Imali found a passion for telling stories that can change the world. Engaigning in social media advocacy, Imali is part of a movement that brings people to together and empowers them through media.

“My Society Experiences an Amalgam of Challenges that Stem from Undealt Structural Inequalities”

Q: Tell us a few things about your country, and also your life's story!

My name is Imali Ngusale from Kenya, one of the most popular African States and home of the late Wangari Maathai who was audacious enough to give insight on the importance of safeguarding the environment. Through her inspiration, I am a revolutionary thinker and astounding communication and advocacy professional with over 12 years of experience in budget advocacy, health research and development, and international relations and governance.

Q: How did you experience the global pandemic crisis, did it change your life or/and your views about the world? How?

The crisis was a socio-economic shock that we are slowly recovering from. It changed our lives drastically because it led to abrupt policy measures that made me rethink and review the mechanisms of cushioning income and business challenges while tackling health. COVID-19 changed my world view because it made me realize that the African States do not have the same health safety and purchasing power as the developed states.

Q: What are some of the key challenges in your society currently? 

My society experiences an amalgam of challenges, from gender-based violence to gender disparities that stem from undealt structural inequities that became more visible since the COVID curfews.

Q: Share with us some of the hurdles that you had to overcome in your life so far? How did you handle them?

I had to postpone my schooling to manage the challenges that emanated from COVID-19. I also had to recover psychologically after losing a friend and classmate to the virus. I have had to look back at my strategy and rethink again on the way forward.

Q: If you were to ask one thing from our current leaders, what would it be?

How will they make sure that their name lives beyond their time?

Q: Why is the role of a mentor important for you?

A mentor helps me to provoke the best of me despite of me.

Q: Do you have a lesson that life has taught you and you would like to share?  

Yes, as long as you are not distracted, it is difficult to quit.

Q: Name a project, a foundation or a person in your country that you think is doing great work in helping improve other people's lives!

Anna Qabale Duba, a Kenyan nurse passionate about ending FGM. She is currently stationed at the Marsabit County Referral Hospital

Q: What are some of the challenges that women in your country face and what efforts are made towards gender equality?

Women in my country have found it challenging to earn a decent living during the post-COVID-19 era and have come together in solidarity to bid contracts so that they can collectively earn a living.

Q: Share with us a phrase, a poem or a story that means something to you.

I have mine as an animation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RueDdBykbr8

Q: Share with us a project that you would like to make happen for your country or a cause that you are passionate about.

Advocacy Against FGM.

Please see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdlLhCCAJyk&t=38s

Q: Anything else that you may wish to add?

Yes, this opportunity has helped me to rethink my ideas as an African animator.