This Christmas we’re shining a light on women who have broken down barriers.
Hi John,
This Christmas we’re shining a light on the women who have broken down barriers and challenged social norms to become leaders in their communities. Women like Caroline (pictured above).
Caroline on protecting women’s rights in Kenya
Having overcome domestic violence and abuse herself, Caroline, along with 20 other women, set up the Omega Winners Initiative in Kajiado County, Kenya, to reduce the high levels of violence against women in their village and surrounding areas.
"According to our culture, we are not supposed to engage ourselves in politics, in any leadership, even in the conversations of the family;
it belongs to men and men alone. That’s what I’m trying to change.”
Too often women are prevented from taking on leadership roles because discriminatory laws exclude them, they’ve been denied an education or other responsibilities in the home take up their time.
But through our project AWESOME (Advancing Women’s Engagement: Strengthening Opportunities to Mobilise for Equality) we’re working with six women’s rights organisations in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda to challenge the social customs that hold back gender equality.
Together our goal is for women to build the confidence, skills, and knowledge they need to rise up as leaders and demand equal rights and freedoms.
Having received leadership training through FIDA Kenya, Caroline is changing attitudes and beliefs around violence against women. She hopes to run for local office to represent the needs of women and girls in her community.
“I want to be that person who the community will listen to around the dangers of FGM and child marriages and I also want to show my community that a woman can lead.”
This Christmas a gift of £30 could contribute to the support and training a woman needs to demand an end to violence against women and girls in her community.
As courageous activists like Caroline rise up, will you stand with them?
We appreciate that times are tough with the cost-of-living and fuel crisis. If you are not able to donate right now, that is understandable. Please do not feel pressured to support Womankind beyond your means.
With warmest wishes to you and your loved ones this festive period.
Martina Hoggart
Supporter Care Team Womankind Worldwide
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