16th March 2026, Bor, South Sudan
A powerful new initiative is taking root in Bor. One that puts girls’ voices, strength, and future at the center of change.
The Nyandu Spark Initiative (NSI), in partnership with Spotlight Schools Limited, has officially launched the Spark & Echo: Nyandu Empowerment Hub at Spotlight Primary and Secondary School. This 8-week mentorship program is more than just a pilot, it’s a safe, supportive space where young people are empowered to grow, express themselves, and shape their own futures.
At the heart of the Spark & Echo Hub is a simple but powerful idea: every girl deserves to feel safe, confident, and heard.
The spark and Echo club hosts about 100 students who meet weekly under the guidance of trained mentors and peer leaders. Together, they explore topics that matter deeply to their lives and futures, including:
- Building identity and resilience
- Setting educational goals and dreaming big
- Staying safe in the digital world
- Developing leadership and personal agency
- Supporting mental health and one another
- Promoting menstrual hygiene and dignity
- Raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV)
But this isn’t just about lessons, it’s about expression and storytelling.
A unique and inspiring part of the program is the Echoes of Nyandu Journal, where students share their voices through essays, poems, and personal reflections.
Here, stories become a source of healing, strength, and connection. Each piece written is a reminder that their experiences matter and that their voices can spark change far beyond the classroom.
Voices from the Participants
“Before attending the session on self-identity and self-worth, I did not fully understand who I was or what I could become. I often saw myself as just a girl with limited possibilities. However, through the discussions and activities, I have come to realize that I am valuable, capable, and deserving of opportunities.
The safe space created during the session allowed me to express myself without fear and reflect on my strengths. I now feel more confident in who I am and motivated to pursue my goals. I am grateful for this program because it has helped me see myself differently, not just as a girl, but as someone with purpose and potential.” Amuor Agoot, a student in S.4 Science
The Future!
With strong support from students, teachers, and partners, the Spark & Echo model has the potential to grow beyond Bor. The long-term vision is to expand the program to more schools, amplifying adolescent voices and strengthening resilience across communities.
For media inquiries or to learn more about the initiative
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