For Catherine Adut, an Early Warning Monitoring Fellow from Lakes State, the fellowship changed how she understands her role—not only as a journalist, but also as someone who can support and guide other women in the profession, reports DEBORAH YAR:
Before joining the program, Catherine says she often kept quiet when facing stressful situations at work. Some issues felt normal, even when they were unfair.
But the fellowship helped her see things differently.
“I became more aware of my rights, especially regarding harassment and other forms of gender-based violence,” Catherine explains.
From Silence to Awareness
During the fellowship sessions, participants learned about protection mechanisms and the importance of reporting violations. For Catherine, this knowledge was empowering.
Instead of remaining silent, she began sharing what she learned with other female journalists.
“Now when something is wrong, I encourage them to report it. Sometimes they come to me for advice, and I explain their rights and what steps they can take.”
Through these conversations, Catherine has helped other women understand that workplace harassment and unfair treatment should not be accepted as normal.
Defending Her Own Rights
The knowledge Catherine gained also helped her handle a difficult situation in her own workplace.
She recalls being offered a contract with lower pay and heavier workload than her male colleagues.
Previously, she might have accepted the conditions quietly.
This time, she spoke up.
“I told them it was against my rights. Because of that, my salary was increased and my workload was reduced.”
For Catherine, this moment was a personal victory—and proof that knowing your rights can make a real difference.
Supporting Other Women
Today, Catherine continues encouraging other female journalists to speak out when they face harassment, discrimination, or unfair treatment.
She believes that when women share knowledge and support one another, they become stronger together.
Across South Sudan, fellows like Catherine are helping build a network of women journalists who understand their rights and are ready to defend them.
