Empowering Women: Time spent with Marthe in Kinshasa

“No matter how dark the night, the dawn will always come."

 This Congolese proverb is one I have heard since my first time in the Democratic Republic of Congo over a decade ago.

 Returning to the DRC always feels like stepping into a story still unfolding - a story of resilience, strength, and an unshakable commitment to building a brighter future and seeing the beautiful light of the dawn.  As a part of that ongoing story, through Lucy and Hand Up Congo, I was able to connect with Marthe Kondemo, a remarkable leader whose work is transforming lives across the country.

Marthe serves as the Secretary General for the Department of Women and Families at the Church of Christ in Congo. Through her leadership, she facilitates initiatives that reach and support over 15 million Congolese women. That number alone is incredible, but what truly struck me was the heart and vision she brings to the role.

When we first sat down together, I asked what fuels her tireless work. Her response was immediate and powerful:

“Women are the fabric of Congo. They’re the lifeblood of their families, their communities, and the nation. When women thrive, everyone thrives.”

Marthe’s belief in the power of women is unshakable, and it’s not just words. It’s evident in everything she does. From supporting grassroots initiatives to leading national efforts, she’s making sure that women across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have the tools and opportunities to unlock their potential.

I joined Marthe at a women’s conference in a large church in the city of Kinshasa. The event brought together women from different walks of life, each one carrying her own story. Walking into the room, I felt both inspired and humbled. The energy was overwhelming - vibrant, hopeful, and deeply connected.

What stayed with me most were the moments that revealed the quiet strength of these women. I watched a grandmother cradle her grandchild, her face full of love and hope for the future. Nearby, another woman rested her hands on a well-worn Bible, a simple but powerful gesture of faith and resilience. Marthe moved through the room with ease, connecting with each woman like an old friend.

Through congregational singing and prayer, many voices rose together in faith and hope, filling the space with a palpable sense of unity. I felt privileged to witness not just the strength of these women but the connections that bind them together.

For me, photography has always been about more than images. It’s about capturing stories - stories like Marthe’s and the countless women she supports. Through her leadership, they are not just surviving immense challenges; they are building something better for themselves, their families, and their country.

To the donors and sponsors supporting this work, thank you. Your contributions are helping women like Marthe bring real change to millions of lives here in the DRC that is seeing women across Congo rising, stronger and more determined than ever.

Marthe reminded me of something vital during my time with her:

“Women aren’t just the backbone of their families. They are the foundation upon which entire communities rise - When women thrive, everyone thrives.”

~ Ryan Carter, Photographer and Storyteller