Skip to main content
European Union flag
English
Jul 8, 2025

Bridging Policy and Purpose: My Experience at the European Union Visitors Programme

By Mariama Sahid - Communications Officer, Campaign for Good Governance (Sierra Leone)

Participating in the European Union Visitors Programme (EUVP) in Brussels was a deeply enriching and empowering experience. Representing Campaign for Good Governance during this one-week study visit provided me with the opportunity to engage directly with EU institutions, experts, and policymakers on critical issues that align closely with my work and aspirations. mariama sahid

Throughout the programme, I explored vital themes such as child protection, gender equality, youth participation, human rights, and the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Each session offered a unique perspective on how the EU approaches these issues globally, with practical insights on legislative frameworks, programme implementation, and inclusive governance.

As a young woman who has worked her way up through challenges common to many across Africa, it was particularly meaningful to engage in high-level discussions on young women’s participation in politics and leadership. Coming from Sierra Leone, where I serve as one of the 42 aspiring female parliamentarians under the Give Back to Africa initiative, this experience reinforced my belief in the importance of representation, not just as a political tool, but as a driver of real social change.

Meeting with officials from the European External Action Service, European Commission, and other institutions, I gained valuable knowledge on how gender is mainstreamed in EU policy, and how youth and women are being actively supported to lead at national and international levels. Additionally, I had the opportunity to learn about the political side of work on such policies when I met the Party of European Socialists’ women’s organisation, PES Women.

I also visited Sierra Leone’s Embassy in Brussels and a warm engagement with Deputy Ambassador Madam Asmaa Kamara James (a fellow EUVP Alumna) helped bridge the diplomatic and grassroots dimensions of advocacy and policy influence.

Beyond the knowledge gained, this programme was a platform for building networks with professionals, policymakers, and fellow changemakers across the EU and Africa. It deepened my conviction to continue championing youth leadership, gender equity, and governance reform back home.

Moving forward, I plan to:

  • Consolidate connections made during the programme into potential collaborations.

  • Establish an active EUVP alumni network in Sierra Leone to support knowledge-sharing and future engagement.

  • Use insights gained to enhance the advocacy and outreach work I lead through Campaign for Good Governance, Young Women in Democracy Forum, SHE4Peace, and the Africa Child Development Organization.

I extend my gratitude to the European Union’s Delegation in Sierra Leone for this opportunity, and to my institution, Campaign for Good Governance, for supporting my participation.

The EUVP has not only expanded my perspective, but it has also strengthened my resolve to lead with purpose, build partnerships, and continue advocating for the future Sierra Leone deserves.