Teijeh Kahunla: Obstacles are opportunities for growth and learning

It is one thing to identify problems and it is another to proffer solutions. The question is are you part of the problems or the solutions? Teijeh Gullah Syia Kahunla identifies as the latter. She is currently the Deputy Executive Director at Strong Girls Evolution, where she oversees project implementation and develops partnerships with different stakeholders.

Born and raised in Freetown, Sierra Leone, she defied all odds to make a meaningful impact in her community. Dissatisfied with the status quo, she has a burning desire to see the marginalised take their place. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Law from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College, Teijeh stands as an advocate for justice and equality. With a firm belief in continuous learning, Teijeh is currently furthering her education. 

There is more than meets the eye when it comes to Teijeh and she was willing to uncover bit by bit in a chat with Omote Ro Dhe. She speaks at length about the causes she is passionate about, her upbringing, educational background, career journey, how she works for the good of women and girls and others. Read excerpts of this explosive and interesting chat below:

Tell us about your journey and what inspired you to pursue a career in law and organisational leadership

My journey into the fields of law and organisational leadership has been shaped by a combination of personal experiences, academic pursuits, and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact in my community. Born and raised in Freetown, Sierra Leone, I was exposed early on to the challenges and injustices faced by many in my society. This exposure ignited a passion for justice and equality within me.

From a young age, I was inspired by the stories of leaders who used their knowledge and skills to fight for the rights of the marginalised and to bring about positive change. This inspiration was further fueled by witnessing firsthand the struggles of women and girls in my community, and I felt a strong calling to contribute towards their empowerment and protection.

My academic journey began with a focus on law. I pursued a Bachelor of Laws with Honours (LL.B Hons) from the University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College, graduating in 2021. This foundational education provided me with a deep understanding of the legal system and equipped me with the skills necessary to advocate for justice. My commitment to this path was solidified when I completed my training at the Sierra Leone Law School, earning the title of Barrister at Law in 2022.

Throughout my legal studies, I sought practical experience to complement my academic knowledge. I interned at Law Firm from 2019 to 2022, where I conducted legal research, drafted documents, and participated in client consultations and court proceedings. During my internship, I was particularly involved in adoption work, assisting in the preparation of adoption petitions and conducting home studies. This work was incredibly fulfilling as it allowed me to help create new families and ensure the best interests of children were upheld.

As a Pupil Barrister, I continued to engage deeply with adoption cases. I conducted thorough legal research, prepared necessary documents, and provided legal advice to clients navigating the complex adoption process. Each successful adoption was a testament to the transformative power of legal advocacy and reinforced my dedication to protecting vulnerable populations.

Parallel to my legal career, I developed a keen interest in organizational leadership and development. This interest was driven by my recognition of the need for effective leadership in driving social change. In 2019, I joined Strong Girls Evolution, an organization dedicated to empowering young women and promoting gender equality. As the Procurement and Finance Officer, I managed financial transactions, prepared reports, and supported fundraising activities.

In 2022, I assumed the role of Deputy Executive Director at Strong Girls Evolution. In this capacity, I have been able to provide strategic leadership, oversee project implementation, and develop partnerships with various stakeholders. My work has involved organizing public events, leading initiatives to empower girls, and promoting gender equality.

Currently, I am furthering my education and these ongoing studies are enhancing my leadership skills and equipping me with the knowledge to drive sustainable development and organizational growth.

What inspires me most in my career is the opportunity to create a lasting impact. Whether through advocating for legal rights, empowering women, or leading an organization towards its goals, I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves a fair chance to succeed. My journey is a testament to my commitment to justice, equality, and leadership, and I am dedicated to continuing this path to make a difference in my community and beyond.

How do you integrate your legal expertise into your work with Strong Girls Evolution to empower girls and promote gender equality?

Integrating my legal expertise into the mission of Strong Girls Evolution has been a cornerstone of my efforts to empower girls and promote gender equality. My background in law provides a robust framework for advocating for policy changes, educating girls about their rights, and providing essential legal support.

Firstly, my legal training allows me to analyze and interpret laws and policies affecting women and girls. This expertise is crucial in advocating for policy changes that enhance gender equality and protect the rights of our beneficiaries. 

Education and awareness are also key components of our work. I organize and conduct workshops and seminars to educate girls and young women about ways to develop themselves and become powerful. These sessions cover various topics, including gender-based violence, employment rights, and reproductive health rights. 

In program development and implementation, my legal background aids in designing initiatives that focus on personal development and empowerment. 

In summary, integrating my legal expertise into Strong Girls Evolution ensures that our empowerment and gender equality efforts are grounded in a thorough understanding of legal rights and frameworks. This approach not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to long-term systemic change, making a significant impact on the lives of girls and women in our community.

Can you list some women who have influenced you into the woman you have become and what endeared you to them?

My mother - Henrietta Kahunla

My friends - Lovinda Marie Kanu and Eunice Naffie Mustapha

My Mentors - Mrs Sebay Janet Koroma and Abigail Nthuba

How do you stay motivated and resilient in the face of obstacles in your professional journey?

Staying motivated and resilient in the face of obstacles is crucial for anyone in a challenging field like law and organisational leadership. My deep commitment to gender equality and empowering young women drives me to persevere, as seeing the positive impact of my work on individuals and communities keeps me focused and inspired.

Continuous learning is a key strategy for maintaining motivation. By seeking new knowledge and skills through professional development, further education, and staying updated with the latest trends in my field, I enhance my expertise and stay intellectually engaged. Support networks also play a significant role. Surrounding myself with supportive colleagues, mentors, and friends provides encouragement, advice, and shared experiences that help me navigate challenges and stay resilient.

Setting realistic goals and breaking down large projects into manageable tasks ensures a sense of progress and accomplishment, which is crucial for motivation. Reflecting on past achievements and milestones reminds me of the progress I’ve made and the positive outcomes of my efforts, reinforcing my commitment to my work.

Maintaining a balanced lifestyle, engaging in hobbies, and taking time for self-care are vital for mental and physical well-being, and supporting resilience. Adapting to change and viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth helps me stay adaptable and resilient, allowing me to approach challenges with a positive attitude and find innovative solutions.

Drawing inspiration from other successful leaders and change-makers who have overcome significant challenges provides motivation and a reminder that perseverance pays off. Keeping the broader mission and long-term goals in mind helps me stay motivated, even when facing short-term setbacks. Knowing that my work contributes to a larger cause gives me a sense of purpose and direction.

If you could have any superpower to help you in your work, what would it be and why?

If I could have any superpower to help in my work, it would be the ability to instantly impart knowledge and skills to others. This superpower would enable me to empower young women and girls more effectively by equipping them with the education, confidence, and competencies they need to succeed.

With this power, I could accelerate the process of learning and capacity-building, allowing individuals to overcome barriers and reach their full potential much faster. It would help bridge the educational gaps, especially in communities with limited access to resources, ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to excel and contribute positively to society. This superpower aligns with my commitment to gender equality and creating a more just and equitable world.

What are your future goals and aspirations in your career and with Strong Girls Evolution?

My future goals with Strong Girls Evolution and in my career focus on expanding our impact, advancing gender equality, and enhancing my professional expertise. I aim to scale our programs to reach more young women and girls, advocate for systemic gender equality reforms, and pursue advanced education to bring innovative strategies to my work. Building strong partnerships and networks is also a priority, along with fostering a culture of leadership and innovation within the organization. Additionally, I aspire to mentor and inspire the next generation of leaders, contributing to meaningful societal change.

Success is relative. What does it mean to you? 

To me, success is defined by the positive impact I have on others and the ability to achieve meaningful goals that align with my values and purpose. It’s about making a difference in the lives of those I work with, particularly through empowering young women and advocating for gender equality. Success also involves personal growth, resilience, and the fulfillment of both professional and personal aspirations. Ultimately, it’s about contributing to a greater good while continuously striving to improve and make a lasting, positive impact.

What advice do you have for younger girls pursuing purpose?

Pursuing purpose is a journey that requires both determination and self-belief. For younger girls embarking on this path, the most crucial advice is to cultivate a strong belief in themselves. Trusting in one’s abilities and potential is foundational, as self-confidence fuels perseverance and success.

It is essential to pursue passions with enthusiasm. When you follow what excites and motivates you, your work becomes more fulfilling and impactful. Setting clear, achievable goals is equally important. Define what you want to accomplish and devise a plan to reach those objectives, allowing you to measure progress and stay focused.

Seeking support from mentors and a positive network can provide guidance and encouragement. Surrounding yourself with individuals who believe in you and offer advice can be invaluable. Embracing challenges is another vital aspect of this journey. Obstacles should be seen not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth and learning.

A commitment to continuous learning helps you stay adaptable and informed, further enhancing your abilities and understanding. Balancing ambition with self-care ensures that you maintain both mental and physical well-being while pursuing your goals. Finally, using your success to give back to others fosters a sense of community and helps uplift those around you.

By following these principles, younger girls can navigate their path with confidence, make meaningful contributions, and achieve their purpose.