SUCCESS STORY

In the realm of rights and democracy, it is crucial to nurture the passion and potential of young graduates in shaping the future   of human rights, advocacy, governance,  and democratic participation. Also, in today’s competitive job market, many graduates find themselves amid significant challenges as they navigate the transition from academia to the professional world. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play a critical role in addressing social issues, advocating for human rights, and driving positive  change. However, some of these CSOs face numerous challenges related to skillset which hinder  their  ability to effectively tackle complex societal problems.

Given these challenges, the Data-Driven Advocacy  (DDA) Activity in 2021 to 2023 implemented a Graduate Mentorship Pro-   gram to address the significant need through bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the complex landscape of rights and democracy. During this period, a total of 31 mentees were recruited from different Universities  in Tanzania  who graduated with a Bachelor of Law  or Bachelor of Law  Enforcement Degree. The mentees were inducted into          a 10-day training program covering topics such as Advocacy, Human Rights and Governance, Policy Development and Analysis, Research Methodologies, and Media Engagement. Thereafter, DDA placed the mentees in a three-month-long internship within   the partner CSOs that the project works with.

As a result, the Graduate Mentorship Program achieved the following:

Skills Advancement: The 31 graduates acquired theoretical skills during the 10-day training on a wide range of topics. Also, mentors in the CSOs provided guidance and shared best practices to enable mentees to accelerate their professional development and use their theoretical knowledge practically. Through skills advancement, mentees were able to

      -Appear on Wakili TV presenting on legal topics.

       -Policy Analysis on the Political Parties Act, National Elections Act, and Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.

New Perspectives and Innovations: Mentees supported the CSOs by bringing creativity and sharing innovative solutions to drive positive change. Two mentees who were  placed at the Tanzania  Media Foundation (TMF) supported the establishment of the organizational legal desk which is operational to date.

Retention and Succession Planning: Through the Graduate Mentorship Program, a few CSOs retained talented mentees by creating an environment of learning, growth, and support. Below are a few examples where mentees were retained;

      Executive Director’s Personal Assistant – Women in Law Development Africa, WiLDAF.

      Volunteer Legal Officer – Tanzania Women Lawyers Association, TAWLA.

      Volunteer Legal officer - Women In Law Development Africa, WiLDAF.

      Program Officer – Mwanza Youth and Children’s Network, MYCN now promoted to Assistant Program Manager.

      Program Officer – Tangible Initiative for Local Development, TiFLD.

      Program Officer – Wote Sawa.

Through the mentioned achievements and growth  of the mentees, it is evident that the Graduate Mentorship Program  has   been a success over  the years. This program  has not only provided  valuable guidance and support to  recent graduates but      has also enriched the CSOs by cultivating an environment of innovation and expanding networks. The lasting impact of this mentorship program will continue to seep through the organizations. The DDA Activity although ending, looks forward to witnessing the continued success of these graduates as they shape their future and to positively contributing to their so- rounding's