What's your Take ?

I recently received an invite to be a "Speaker" at one of the greatest International Women's Conferences in Paris, France. Which will take place next Year in March.

After enquiring of my required steps, I realized that actually I have to pay for the engagement, pay for the cost of my visa and return tickets and accomodation during the period.

I kind of told them if they believe am fit for the opportunity, and tabled my situation as a Kenyan Village Girl trying to achieve her dreams in a global space with limited resources. The team insisted that I should pay for a fee, and from our last conversation the person clearly told me that I should book my slot in advance because the high level conference is attended by women from USA, Europe, UK and even Asia who are already booking their slots.

What did this mean? That if I don't have the money other people already have the money to pay for the same and they can go ahead with them .

Why would you then invite me to such opportunities when you believe in my experience and expertise to speak to your audience when you cannot support me in what I need and not want??

Why don't you be inclusive and offer sponsorship options to those without the capacity to attend?

My take, It was my first ever invite for an in-person global event outside Africa. But see what it turns out to be. I tried seeking support from two connections but they can't afford to. It's about being a speaker that mean if I had an organization that can support me then I represent their work on that scale. But so unfortunate that some of us Africans are still behind undermined and demeaned in such spaces.

What's your take on this my sisterhood friends? Any of your advice, such experiences? How did you overcome it.?

Thank you.

NB: My photo image was taken in my mum's kitchen. yes am proud of my family background because am the one currently the family depends on to change our home. But am still waiting for the chosen time. I cannot hide my Socioeconomic status to please people who want to benefit from my rich skills when they are not open to real and authentic diversity and inclusion.