ActionAid represents a movement of women standing together to claim their human rights and campaign against injustice. So who are the women we are working with? And how are they overcoming challenges and fighting for their rights?
Dorah
“Even though there are barriers, what makes me happy all the time, and the whole country of Vanuatu, is the women’s smiles.”
Dorah is from the island of Efate, in Vanuatu. Through Women I Tok Tok Tugeta, she is creating change and helping drive a women-led response in her community, advocating for women’s rights and equality.
Dorah, a WITTT leader from Eton, Vanuatu
Mary
“I joined the Bidi Farmers group and together we have overcome many challenges. We come together once a month to share ideas, exchange knowledge and strengthen our voice in the community.”
Mary Gatomita is a part of the Bidi Farmers Group, a Farmer Field School project that works to sustain resilient livelihoods. Her dedication to her crops and her family allows Mary to develop a sense of stability, empowerment, and perseverance. Despite any hardship that may come her way, Mary’s excitement is contagious.
Mary Gatomita
Anne
“I believe that if a mother can feed a multitude with a kilo of rice and a can of Solomon Tuna, then she is a good leader, because she has demonstrated that in the home. If you give her the resources that she needs, she is going to change the world before you know it.”
Anne Pakoa is the founder of Young Women for Change in Vanuatu. She is raising awareness on the social issues affecting young women, and supporting them to identify the solutions to the problems they are facing, and to create change.
Anne Pakoa, Vanuatu Young Women for Change
Ramita
“I believe that change starts from our own home. I became engaged in mushroom farming and after I started earning, I haven’t had to become financially dependent on anyone. If women in the community start to work, the community will surely evidence positive change.
Ramita Desar is a mushroom farmer in Kathmandu, Nepal. Her work is a testament to her boldness and determination, and we are proud to back her.
Ramita Desar, Nepal
Adi
“Women’s rights for me, means enabling a safe and secure space for women, also some level of freedom… We would like to achieve a sense of not only rights, but also justice.” – Adi Vasu, Transcend Oceania.
Adi Vasu is the Director of Transcend Oceania, a peace-building, justice and development organisation based in Suva, Fiji, and working across the Pacific. Adi is part of the Shifting the Power Coalition, who are working together to towards equal power, and putting women’s voices on the table.
Adi Vasu, Shifting the Power Coalition