The first thing you notice about Sharon Obilo is her conviction. Every word she speaks feels deliberate, like someone who has learned the power of standing firm.
“It is better to die standing than to live constantly on your knees,” she told Defenders Coalition. “Now is the time to stand up and speak out so that we can build a peaceful society that promotes the well-being of everyone.”
Born and raised in Kisumu County, Sharon’s journey as a human rights defender began early. Losing her parents at a young age and facing trauma in childhood, she found healing through action. “That pain became my fire,” she said. “It pushed me to speak for those who couldn’t.” Her advocacy started in primary school through a Health Club and has since evolved into a powerful mission rooted in justice and equality.
At the heart of her work is the fight for women’s land and property rights, protection from gender-based violence, and the freedom to protest without fear. Yet, even with passion and purpose, the work came with heavy emotional costs. “Before the HRD Academy, I often felt isolated and overwhelmed,” she admitted.
Joining the Human Rights Defenders Academy in 2022 changed that. “The academy gave me more than training,” Sharon said. “It gave me a community.” She learned practical tools, digital and physical security, financial literacy, documentation, and psychosocial support, all of which reshaped how she approached her activism.
“Those lessons helped me support GBV survivors, document extrajudicial killings, and help create safe spaces in my community.”
For Sharon, the Academy’s greatest gift was connection. “It reminded me that I’m not alone,” she shared. “Many defenders face burnout, broken relationships, and loss. Having a safe space to learn, reflect, and heal made all the difference.”
Looking back, Sharon sees the Academy as a defining chapter in her journey.
“It was my place of empowerment,” she said. “It sharpened my voice, strengthened my courage, and reminded me that my story has power, power to inspire others to rise and defend human rights without fear.”