Growing up as an African girl child is one journey. Growing up without a sister, older or younger, is another journey entirely. For a long time, I didn’t know how much that absence shaped me. I walked my path alone, strong on some days, brave on most days, but quietly lonely on many nights. I learned early how to figure things out on my own. How to keep my questions to myself. How to pretend I had everything under control. And for a while, I thought that was enough. Until life began to ask harder questions, decisions became heavier, mistakes became costlier, and uncertainty became louder. That was when I realised what I had been missing. I had never had a big sister to hold my hands and say,
“Here’s what I learned the hard way.” “
Here’s what you don’t need to struggle with.”
“Here’s how to walk into that room with confidence.”
“Here’s how to protect your heart, your dreams, and your future.”
I didn’t have someone to correct me gently, answer my questions without judgment, share her mistakes so I wouldn’t repeat them, or teach me boundaries, workplace confidence, and self-worth. So I learned by trial, error, tears, late nights of self-doubt, by silent prayers, sometimes, by heartbreak. It wasn’t until I got into university that God began to answer a prayer I didn’t even know how to pray. He surrounded me with women; some became sisters, mentors, safe spaces, and some became mirrors that showed me who I could become. Through them, I learned that sisterhood is not about blood, it is about presence, guidance and walking together.
Maybe you’re reading this and seeing yourself. Maybe you didn’t grow up with a sister. Maybe you have sisters, but still feel alone in your journey. Maybe you’re navigating career, purpose, faith, and life with more questions than answers. Maybe you’re tired of figuring everything out by yourself. If that is you, I want you to know that you don’t have to do life alone. That is why the IHA Mentorship Program 2026 exists.
It is more than a program; it is a space where young African women are guided, affirmed, challenged, and equipped. If you are an early-career woman seeking clarity, confidence, and direction, this is for you. If you are ready to unlock your potential and become the best version of yourself, this is for you. Apply to be a mentee here: https://bit.ly/IHA-MenteeApplication2026
For the Women Ready to Become “Big Sisters”
Maybe you’re on the other side of this story, as the woman I once prayed for and the big sister someone else is longing for to be a voice of wisdom and guidance. If you are passionate about helping young women find their feet, build confidence, and avoid unnecessary struggles, then mentorship is your calling. Join the IHA 2026 Mentors and use your experience to inspire, empower, and shape the future of young female professionals across Africa.
Apply as a mentor here: https://bit.ly/IHA-Mentor2026
Notes From Your Big Sisters: A Gift for Your Journey
Still wishing you had someone to talk to at midnight, or reassure you when you feel stuck? That is why we created Notes From Your Big Sisters. This book is our gift to you. It is a collection of heartfelt lessons, honest reflections, practical advice, and real stories from women who have walked this path and are still walking it. This book was written with you in mind.
Download your copy here: https://selar.com/notes_from_your_big_sisters
If you're tired of guessing your way through life and you need guidance, this is your invitation to grow, connect, and rise, whether as a mentee, mentor, or through the pages of a book.
What do you wish you had access to as an African woman? Tell us in the comments.
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