Today, we would like to pay tribute to a dear sister, a friend and a committed young woman, Lillian Odhach whose life touched many far and near.
We met Lillian in 2010 when over 25 Kenyan women and young women got together in all our diversities united by a common issues, for a five day intensive training exploring our sexual Reproductive Health and Rights. The training brought us together and we resolved that we need to work hard to realize demand and ensure we reclaimed our rights.
Lillian showed her resolve and commitment to serve the world. She was willing to champion the cause for young women. When the advocacy worked started, Lillian clearly showed that she was the leader, advocate and activist that the world needed. She gave all her best to this struggle, she wanted every young woman to be heard, engaged and to get the best as they grow. She had no reservations or fear, she did a lot more than many her age would do.
With Lillian at the lead, the older women knew they could sit back, relax and let the young women take charge. One vivid memory is one of Lillian and Consolata Opiyo taking over a training of over 40 young women in Kenya, and Lillian Mworeko and Patricia Asero smiled and nodded beaming with pride. The older women, had transferred skills and mentored strong warriors. A deal had been sealed, new advocates had been born.
Lillian was different things to different people, she was a friend, a daughter, a sister and a grandchild. She did a great job, doing what she loved which was fighting for the rights of young people especially young women living with HIV – she leaves a legacy. She put her heart and soul into this and so many young women can today stand up and say they are alive because of her.
Lillian was a member of the International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa, the Kenya Chapter, PIPE and many more. All these groups will with no doubt miss her dearly.
With you gone, we have lost a sister, a friend and an amazing advocate. Lillian leaves us with a war to fight; in this war, may battles have been won but many more a yet to be won calling for a need to reevaluate. We will carry on with the work you have been doing.
We will miss you. We will never forget you. Rest in peace our dear sister Lillian.
