Maureen Okatete

Maureen Okatete has a Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. I am passionate about fostering social justice, promoting equality, and driving change in underrepresented communities. Working at Equality Global Support Foundation (EGSF), I have been advocating for marginalized communities, including immigrants, survivors of gender-based violence, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Through my work and collaboration with the team, I aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where every individual can feel safe, respected, and empowered. Under EGSF, I’ve been able to participate in assisting newcomers in navigating their new lives by providing guidance on legal rights, access to social services, language skills, and community integration, ensuring that immigrants and refugees have the tools and resources to thrive in their new environment. With the team, we also provide emotional, psychological, and legal support to survivors of gender-based violence, offering resources for safety planning, access to shelters, legal advocacy, and counseling services.

In promoting equality for LGBTQ+ individuals by advocating for their rights, addressing discrimination, and offering support through safe spaces, legal resources, and mental health services, we ensure that LGBTQ+ persons feel empowered to live authentically and safely. I have coordinated and implemented educational campaigns and training sessions to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by these communities.

I also aim to promote cultural sensitivity, human rights, and the importance of building inclusive, diverse communities. I also work to influence policy at local, national, and international levels to address inequalities faced by immigrants, gender-based violence survivors, and LGBTQ+ individuals striving for legal reforms that ensure equal treatment and access to resources for all.

Over the years, I have amassed skills in conflict resolution and facilitating sensitive conversations on equality and rights, proficiency in creating inclusive environments, a strong understanding of immigrant and refugee issues, including legal, social, and psychological aspects, and expertise in trauma-informed care, particularly for survivors of gender-based violence, just to mention but a few.

Regardless of where they are born, I believe that every person should have access to opportunities and resources that allow them to thrive. Working at EGSF enables me to use my skills to address systemic challenges and work towards a future where everyone has an equal chance to succeed. It is an honor to work alongside ESGF’s dedicated key players, leaders and partners who advocate for change and support those who need it most.