Completed March gathering · International Women’s Day

Leso Lounge

Beba Leso, Tupige Story

A space to pause, share and lead together. On 7 March, Dada Mkubwa brought 31 women leaders together in Ukunda for an intimate International Women’s Day gathering rooted in collective care, storytelling and sisterhood.

7 MarchDiani Reef Hotel · Ukunda, Kwale
Women sitting together around leso-covered tables at the Leso Lounge International Women’s Day gathering.#052
Women gathered for Leso Lounge at Diani Reef, Ukunda.

31

Women leaders convened

3

Leadership discussion circles

1

Guided wellness session

Give to Gain: care that moves both ways

The gathering welcomed women founders, entrepreneurs, community organisers and social-impact leaders. African lesos helped create a culturally grounded, welcoming setting. Rather than a formal conference, Leso Lounge invited women to connect as people, share the realities behind their roles and recognise that leadership does not have to be carried alone.

Leadership without titles

Women set aside their formal roles and joined three facilitated leadership circles. Honest conversations explored the emotional weight of leadership, balancing work and family, and the support that women-led initiatives need.

Rest as part of leadership

A wellness practitioner guided breathing and grounding exercises, offering a pause for reflection. The session recognised wellbeing and collective care as part of sustainable leadership—not an afterthought.

The sisterhood exchange

Participants considered what support they could offer and what they were ready to receive. Mentorship, shared knowledge and possible partnerships were explored, with conversations continuing over a shared Iftar meal.

Women sharing a table, talking and working on colouring sheets during the Leso Lounge gathering.#053
Conversation, colouring and shared reflection at Leso Lounge.
Colouring sheets with positive affirmations arranged on patterned leso fabric at the Leso Lounge event.#054
Colour and affirmations from the Leso Lounge creative corner.

What women took from the gathering

Participants described feeling heard, supported and renewed. The event opened conversations about the pressures of leadership and created opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.

The report recommends future Leso Lounge gatherings and continued networking. Dada Mkubwa is exploring ways to build on these connections and keep wellbeing at the heart of women’s leadership.

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