Esther Kamaria

A Malawian educator and founder of the Girls’ Education Movement (GEM), advocating for girls' access to education in rural Africa.

Esther Kamaria (born 1975) is a Malawian social entrepreneur and advocate for girls’ education. In 2000, she co-founded the Girls’ Education Movement (GEM), which campaigns against gender inequality in education. Kamaria’s work addresses cultural barriers, poverty, and early marriages that limit girls’ schooling. GEM has mobilized over 10,000 girls across Malawi, pushing for policy changes and community awareness. Her initiatives include building scholarships and training female mentors to support vulnerable students.

Kamaria’s efforts align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education). She has partnered with organizations like UN Women and the UNICEF, expanding her impact regionally. Her advocacy highlights the link between education and economic empowerment, inspiring similar movements in neighboring countries like Zambia and Tanzania.