The Reverend Sister Rita Mboshu-Kongo, from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and a member of the Congregation of the Daughters of Mary Coredemptrix, received the Award of Excellence at the "Standout Woman Award 2024" ceremony in Rome on October 31, 2024. This award honors her commitment to educating and training women and girls in the DRC.

Sister Rita is the founder and president of the "Pope Francis for Africa" Foundation (FOPAFA), which empowers women and youth through education and vocational training. Based in Kinshasa, the Foundation focuses on poor neighborhoods with high poverty and illiteracy rates.

One of FOPAFA's flagship programs, "Focolare della Carità: Fraternità Laudato Si'," provides training in sewing, pastry-making, beauty care, and other skills to young single mothers and girls in vulnerable situations. The aim is to help them be financially independent and live better.

Sister Rita's recognition highlights her work’s impact on girls' education and women's vocational training in Africa. Her efforts address the challenges many women face in the DRC and give them opportunities to grow, personally and professionally.

After receiving the "Standout Woman Award 2024," Sister Rita expressed her gratitude and called on people to support FOPAFA's initiatives. She stressed that collaboration is essential for projects that aim to change the lives of women and girls in Africa.

This award emphasizes the vital role of education and vocational training in empowering women in the DRC, a country where 49% of the population is under 14 years old. As the country looks to meet the growing employment needs of its youth, this recognition serves as an inspiring example for similar initiatives across the nation.

Georges Auréole Bamba