After years of mentoring and empowering women leaders and entrepreneurs across East Africa, governance and leadership expert Veni Swai remains steadfast in her mission. Swai, 55, is determined to see more women in policy-making positions, a goal that has driven her work throughout her career.
Reflecting on a pivotal moment early in her career, Swai recalled asking a group of women to choose a chairperson. Despite there being no men in the room, the women hesitated, believing the leader had to be male. "It’s not that men are more qualified, but the way we have been socialized has taught us that men must lead," she said. This mindset, which continues to shape societal expectations, is a driving force behind Swai’s efforts to encourage women to speak out on broader societal issues like poverty, education, and healthcare, rather than limiting their voices to women-specific concerns.
Born in Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Swai grew up inspired by her mother’s leadership, who led projects and initiatives within the Evangelical Lutheran Church. This early exposure to women’s leadership shaped Swai’s belief in women’s potential to transform communities. Over the years, she has mentored countless young women, helping them find their voices and encouraging them to take on leadership roles. Many of her mentees now lead NGOs and businesses across Tanzania.
Swai’s influence also extends to the media and politics, where she has worked to empower women journalists and political figures. Her mentorship programs have led to increased confidence and visibility for women in these fields. Swai’s network of mentees continues to grow, creating a ripple effect of leadership and opportunity that spans generations and countries.
Despite the many successes, Swai remains committed to her mission. “Retirement is not in my vocabulary,” she says, emphasizing her ongoing passion for teaching and mentoring. For Veni Swai, raising voices is not just a career—it’s a lifelong calling, and she has no plans of slowing down.
Reflecting on a pivotal moment early in her career, Swai recalled asking a group of women to choose a chairperson. Despite there being no men in the room, the women hesitated, believing the leader had to be male. "It’s not that men are more qualified, but the way we have been socialized has taught us that men must lead," she said. This mindset, which continues to shape societal expectations, is a driving force behind Swai’s efforts to encourage women to speak out on broader societal issues like poverty, education, and healthcare, rather than limiting their voices to women-specific concerns.
Born in Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Swai grew up inspired by her mother’s leadership, who led projects and initiatives within the Evangelical Lutheran Church. This early exposure to women’s leadership shaped Swai’s belief in women’s potential to transform communities. Over the years, she has mentored countless young women, helping them find their voices and encouraging them to take on leadership roles. Many of her mentees now lead NGOs and businesses across Tanzania.
Swai’s influence also extends to the media and politics, where she has worked to empower women journalists and political figures. Her mentorship programs have led to increased confidence and visibility for women in these fields. Swai’s network of mentees continues to grow, creating a ripple effect of leadership and opportunity that spans generations and countries.
Despite the many successes, Swai remains committed to her mission. “Retirement is not in my vocabulary,” she says, emphasizing her ongoing passion for teaching and mentoring. For Veni Swai, raising voices is not just a career—it’s a lifelong calling, and she has no plans of slowing down.
