Ugandan diaspora women urged on leadership, faith and entrepreneurship
The organisers have already announced plans for the 2027 Deborah Generation Conference, which they say will expand its reach to more Ugandan women in the diaspora, building on the ministry’s focus on faith, leadership and community transformation.
Founders of Deborah Generation Ministries Dr. Susan Gakwavu, Pastor Nancy Twesigye, Minister Petra at the 2026 Deborah Generation Conference held on August 2 at California State University, Northridge in Los Angeles.
__________________ Suzan Gakwavu speaks at the 2026 Deborah Generation Conference held on August 2 at California State University, Northridge, in Los Angeles. (Courtesy)
More than 80 Ugandan women living in the USA have been urged to embrace leadership and use their influence to transform families, workplaces, churches and communities.
The call was made at the 2026 Deborah Generation Conference held last week at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) in Los Angeles, under the theme: Birthing Deborahs in the Diaspora.
The annual faith-based gathering brought together Ugandan women from different parts of the diaspora for discussions on leadership, faith, entrepreneurship, family and community transformation.
The conference was organised by Deborah Generation Ministry, founded in 2021 by Dr Susan Gakwavu who said the ministry was established following ‘a divine conviction to create a platform where women could discover and develop their God-given potential’.
“It is time for Ugandan women, whether at home or abroad, to rise as Deborahs of this generation,” she said.
Deborah is portrayed in the Bible as a prophetess and judge who provided leadership to Israel and played a central role in the country's victory over its enemies.
Gakwavu said the example of Deborah provides a model of courageous and purposeful leadership for women today.
Leadership and purpose
During a key session at the conference, participants were encouraged to identify and pursue their individual callings.
Speakers emphasised that effective leadership goes beyond formal positions or titles and requires commitment, service and a strong relationship with God.
The conference also featured a panel discussion moderated by Gakwavu and Petra Mangesho, also a founding member of the ministry, examined the experiences and challenges women face while pursuing leadership in business, ministry and professional life, including the need to balance careers, faith and family responsibilities.
The ministry's work is supported by founding members Mangesho, Pastor Nancy Twesige, Evangelist Barbara Wanjiru Mubiru and Cynthia Pacutho.
The founders say their goal is to raise Christ-centred women capable of providing leadership and positive influence in their families, professions, businesses, churches and communities.
Organisers said the diversity of participants provided an opportunity for women from different professional and ministry backgrounds to share experiences and explore possible areas of collaboration.
Beyond the formal sessions, the conference included worship, prayer, fellowship and networking, allowing participants to establish new relationships and partnerships.
The organisers have already announced plans for the Deborah Generation Conference 2027, which they say will be expanded to reach more women.
The Deborah Generation Ministry continues to engage Ugandan women in the diaspora through its programmes and social media platforms, with a focus on faith, leadership and community transformation.
Suzan Gakwavu With Some Uganda Diaspora Women Who Attended The 2026 Deborah Generation Conference Held On August 2 At California State University, Northridge In Los Angeles