The SI Dublin Convention 2023 saw a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise, with our Federation workshops taking centre stage. Each workshop contributed a distinct and enthusiastic dimension to the event. In this article, the SIHQ team report on the content of these workshops, showcasing the valuable contributions and innovative insights that emerged during this exceptional convention.

To read ahead to a specific Federation workshop, follow the links below!

• SI Africa Federation Workshop: Good Health and Wellbeing
• SIGBI Federation Workshop: Life on Land
• SIE Federation Workshop: Gender Equality – Unveiling Pathways to Progress
• SIA Federation Workshop: Quality Education
• SISEAP Workshop: Climate Action

 

SI Africa Federation Workshop: Good Health and Wellbeing

The Soroptimist International (SI) Dublin Convention witnessed a compelling workshop talk on the urgent need to combat cervical cancer across the African continent. From speakers Connie Mutunhu, Jalila Moufqia, and Linda Merieau, this workshop shed light on the landscape of women’s health throughout Africa, particularly concerning cervical cancer and its preventable nature. The workshop also unveiled the Health4Life Fund, a ground-breaking initiative aimed at tackling non-communicable diseases, particularly cervical cancer, across Africa.

Connie Mutunhu, SI Director and Immediate Past President of the Africa Federation, illustrated the prevalence of cervical cancer across the African continent. The common but preventable disease is caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Almost everyone who is sexually active will become infected with HPV at some point in their lives. While most strains are harmless and will not harm people with a healthy immune system, two types – 16 and 18 – cause 70% of cervical cancers and precancerous cervical lesions. The lack of access to medical treatment and screening overexposes African women to the disease, making it imperative to address the issue holistically.

The President of the SI Africa Federation, Jalila Moufqia introduced the Health4Life Fund, the only UN-wide Trust Fund devoted to non-communicable diseases, such as cervical cancer. The mission of the Africa Federation is to educate and empower African women with knowledge on the importance of vaccination and regular screening, as well as reducing the stigma surrounding vaccines.

Linda Merieau from the World Health Organisation informed the delegates about ways in which the initiative will be implemented, through fundraising, engaging the government and advocating for the benefits of cervical screening and HPV vaccines.

Exploring the key factors that will drive the success of this initiative, trust, both in medical interventions and broader intentions, emerged as a pivotal component. The history of Africa being subjected to experimental medical interventions evokes skepticism, and rebuilding trust around the HPV vaccine is of paramount importance. Recognizing this, the workshop highlighted the necessity of transparent communication and community engagement to foster confidence in the proposed interventions.

One of the core principles outlined is that no external entity will dictate the priorities of women in African countries. Instead, the initiative will be driven by the needs and aspirations of each nation, facilitating a collective action approach. Partnerships with governments are integral, reflecting a shared responsibility towards women’s health. The Health4Life Fund is committed to ensuring that women receive essential screenings, including pap smears, tailored to each country’s context. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution; rather, each country will chart its course while staying aligned with the initiative’s overarching goals.

The workshop concluded on a note of unity, underscoring that the battle against cervical cancer in Africa requires a collaborative, inclusive, and adaptable strategy. By addressing distrust, securing funding, strengthening healthcare systems, and advocating for comprehensive healthcare approaches, the Health4Life Fund aims to transform the landscape of women’s health across the continent.

 

SIGBI Federation Workshop: Life on Land

The SIGBI workshop covered several projects across the Soroptimist International Federation of Great Britain and Ireland (SIGBI) and under the title of ‘Life on Land’. The projects included within Life on Land have sought to emphasise efforts toward halting and reversing biodiversity loss.

Throughout this workshop, soroptimists heard from several different presenters, including Lindsay Green, the SIGBI programme director, who facilitated the workshop, as well as speakers and slides from SI Kolkata, SI Chaguanas and SI Malta. Importantly, this workshop served to showcase local and contextually appropriate means of reversing biodiversity loss, providing examples for soroptimists in attendance to feedback to their own clubs and efforts around the world.

For Life on Land, SI is addressing climate change issues in a variety of ways, such as through building up soil, preventing soil erosion, planting trees, restoring biodiversity by building back better the habitat of birds, bees and animals, and improving the quality of Life on Land – especially for women and girls.

In order to achieve this, projects have been aligned with several of the Sustainable Development Goals, in addition to the titular goal of ‘Life on Land’ (SDG 15), ensuring women’s livelihoods (SDG 5) and food security (SDG 2), as well as partnerships with other organisations and SIGBI clubs (SDG 17) are central among them.

SI Kolkata

For example, SIGBI clubs in the Asia cluster, under the purview of SI Kolkata, have planted mangroves and Miyawaki forests, like the impressive initiative along the Bay of Bengal where over 33,000 mangrove saplings were meticulously cultivated across a 2 km stretch. These resilient mangroves serve as natural shields against cyclones, storing carbon and fostering diverse ecosystems. Complementing this, the introduction of a Miyawaki forest in Madurai, India, rejuvenates depleted landscapes with native vegetation and diverse fruit trees, embodying the essence of biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management.

The integration of diverse fruit trees, such as mango, papaya, Indian gooseberry, and coconut, not only ensures food security but also stimulates thriving ecosystems with vibrant bird and insect populations. These projects exemplify SIGBI’s commitment to the ‘Life on Land’ theme, encapsulating a harmonious blend of ecological restoration, community well-being, and sustainable practices.

SI Malta

Additionally, in Malta, a project has been undertaken which combines a number of elements central to the Life on Land campaign, including ensuring that the project achieves a lasting impact, a connection to nature, support for women and children, self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship. The heart of the project centred around the establishment of a women’s shelter alongside the planting of olive trees.

One of the primary hurdles involved ensuring a consistent water supply for the olive trees, as olive cultivation demands a reliable source of hydration. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance of the orchard posed another critical consideration. Calculating the associated costs and devising strategies to address these challenges became paramount.

The project team assembled a checklist of crucial factors to ensure the success of their initiative. Native tree species were selected to enhance local biodiversity, and the chosen trees had to provide both harvestable olives and essential shade. Addressing the water requirement was of high importance, and innovative solutions were explored to meet this need sustainably.

The efforts invested yielded a remarkable harvest of 20 litres of high-quality olive oil. This tangible outcome not only provided a source of sustenance but also symbolized the enduring commitment of Soroptimist International to empowering women, supporting communities, and fostering a thriving natural environment.

Key Takeaways from the SIGBI: Empowering Change Locally and Globally

The SIGBI workshop offered a platform for engaging discussions and enlightening presentations, highlighting actionable strategies that underscore the potential of small actions, offer practical pathways for contributing to global goals, and emphasize the power of collaboration and connection in fostering impactful change.

Small Steps, Big Impact: The showcased projects at the SIGBI workshop demonstrated that impactful change doesn’t require grand gestures. Even modest endeavours, fuelled by dedication and creativity, can lead to profound transformations.

Guiding Actions for Global Goals: The workshop provided actionable insights for each Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), from nurturing life on land (SDG 15) through charitable initiatives and ecological stewardship to promoting women’s livelihoods (SDG 5) and ensuring food security (SDG 2). These suggestions serve as roadmaps for meaningful contributions at the local level.

The Power of Connection: Through engaging with fellow participants, the workshop emphasized the value of networking and collaborative brainstorming. These interactions not only amplify impact but also spark the creation of contextually relevant solutions to intricate global challenges.

In essence, the SIGBI workshop encapsulated Soroptimist International’s essence – a call to action, urging the embracement of even the smallest actions. By actively aligning with the SDGs and forging meaningful connections, soroptimists set the stage for a world where change, irrespective of scale, flourishes and endures. As soroptimists continue to channel their energy and creativity, they forge a path towards a brighter future, one project at a time.

 

SIE Federation Workshop: Gender Equality – Unveiling Pathways to Progress

The workshop, titled “Gender Equality: Unveiling Pathways to Progress,” featured a panel of experts committed to combating gender inequality and analysing the concerning pushback on women’s rights. Reka Safrany, President of the European Women’s Lobby (EWL), Dr. Salome Mbugua, CEO of AkiDwA, and Carolien Demey, President of Soroptimist International Europe, led the engaging session.

The core objective of the SIE workshop was to delve into strategies for addressing the persistent gaps between men and women and to openly discuss the troubling resurgence of opposition against women’s rights, with emphasis on the pressing need to confront the challenges facing women across Europe and other regions.

The discussions unveiled a disconcerting reality: a consistent rollback of hard-won women’s rights that has spread its roots both geographically and across societal layers. The panel highlighted shared observations, including instances of migrant women who find themselves trapped in vulnerable situations due to their inability to access official migration programs. This exposes them to the harrowing risk of sexual exploitation. To counteract these issues, the panel underscored the significance of utilising international frameworks such as the Istanbul Convention, an instrument to confront gender-based violence, as a strategic tool. With Ireland’s commitment to the Convention, it serves as a rallying point to challenge these injustices.

President Carolien Demey reiterated that “human rights are women’s rights,” emphasising that while SI remains apolitical in its statements, it must remain politically conscious. The imperative of linking women’s rights with larger human rights frameworks emerged as a prevailing theme. Reka Safrany further shared that the European Parliament was witnessing a reflection of on-ground realities, exposing the urgency of addressing these issues at every level of society.

During the interactive segment, delegates posed thought-provoking questions that shed light on the persistent struggle for gender equality. An overarching question emerged: “Why do we find ourselves revisiting the same discussions as four decades ago, and what drives the relentless pushback against women’s rights?” In response, President Carolien Demey insightfully attributed part of this phenomenon to the perception that some men believe “women have reached their quota” while equating feminism with an exclusive women’s endeavour. This leads to an alarming stagnation in the advancement of women’s rights. The consensus, both among the panel and the engaged audience, was clear: substantial change will remain elusive until the representation of women in critical decision-making roles, such as politicians and judges, sees a marked increase.

In conclusion, the SIE workshop not only unveiled the disheartening reality of gender inequality but also underscored the urgency of collective action. The fight for gender equality requires persistent efforts, encompassing political awareness, cross-border collaboration, and a reimagining of societal norms. As the workshop came to a close, the message resonated: real progress can be achieved when societies recognise that women’s empowerment is not a matter of gender alone but an essential foundation for just, equitable, and thriving communities.

 

SIA Federation Workshop: Quality Education

The Soroptimist International Dublin Convention saw yet another illuminating workshop take the stage, as Stephanie Smith, President of Soroptimist International of the Americas (SIA), captivated attendees with insights into the organization’s enduring commitment to women’s education and empowerment. The workshop, titled shed light on SIA’s pioneering initiatives that uplift women and girls by providing them access to education and training, paving the way for economic empowerment.

Stephanie Smith initiated the session by highlighting the overarching goals of the workshop, emphasizing that attendees would not only broaden their understanding of SIA’s significant impact but also deepen their appreciation of the transformative power of education as a tool of prevention.

For Soroptimist International of the Americas, the pursuit of its mission to empower women and girls through education has remained steadfast. The organization’s commitment is channelled through two signature Dream Programs that have been making waves: the Live Your Dream Award and Dream It Be It: Career Support for Girls.

The Live Your Dream Award, a cornerstone of SIA’s efforts, exemplifies the organization’s dedication to aiding women who are the primary financial providers for their families. This cash grant, often funded by local clubs, extends a lifeline to deserving women who face financial need and are pursuing vocational or undergraduate education. The award is meticulously designed to ease the financial burden of educational pursuits—be it tuition fees, textbooks, transportation, or childcare—thereby liberating recipients to channel their energies into realizing their educational aspirations. Notably, local club winners can access additional grants from their respective regions and SIA, forming a comprehensive support structure.

Stephanie continued to enthusiastically introduce the second star of SIA’s initiatives: the Dream It Be It: Career Support for Girls program. This locally facilitated initiative equips young girls with the tools essential for them to conquer their education and career goals. The program operates at the grassroots level and empowers girls to break free from the shackles of poverty, violence, and abuse. By providing these young women with guidance, mentorship, and essential skills, SIA is effectively disrupting cycles that leave women and girls vulnerable to gendered violence, such as trafficking and intimate partner violence.

Smith emphasized that SIA’s Dream Programs extend beyond education access; they serve as preventative measures against circumstances that perpetuate gender-based violence. By tackling the root causes and fostering empowerment from an early age, SIA is creating a ripple effect that ultimately aspires to pave the way for a more equitable world.

 

SISEAP Workshop: Climate Action

Throughout the Soroptimist International Dublin 2023 Convention, attendees were witness to a number of inspiring workshops hosted by our Federation leaders and programme managers. One of these key workshops, delivered by the Soroptimist International of South East Asia Pacific Federation (SISEAP), addressed climate change – exploring the connection between risk profiles, vulnerability, and the importance of empowering women in global climate action. The workshop highlighted the need for a collective effort to combat climate issues and promote resilience, focusing on the involvement of women and girls in decision-making processes. This article delves into some of the key takeaways from the workshop and underscores the role of women in achieving climate justice.

Understanding the Impact of Climate Change

Climate change is a pressing issue that affects different regions in varying ways; for instance, in countries like Australia, it can significantly alter the risk profile and vulnerability of populations. However, in some regions, climate issues can exacerbate existing challenges, leading to environmental degradation and a loss of basic services. Put simply, climate change impacts everyone, however it does not impact everyone equally. This makes the need for a resilience-based approach to climate action all the more critical.

The Importance of Women in Global Climate Action

As highlighted within the workshop, it is evident that climate action requires the involvement of the entire global population, slightly over half of which are women and girls. Women and girls are often excluded from climate conversations – which hampers progress toward the achievement of climate goals, including those outlined in the Paris Agreement.

In contrast, however, research indicates that countries with a higher representation of women in parliament are more likely to pass climate-related policies; women’s involvement in planning processes helps to produce more impactful policy decisions; and their crucial role as leaders in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) can contribute to post-disaster recovery by increasing the resources of families and communities. Empowering women therefore means better climate solutions – when provided with the same access to resources as men, women can create better climate solutions, such as improved agricultural yields and increased income.

How Women Excel in Addressing Climate Challenges

The contributions of women, toward addressing climate challenges at all levels, should not be undervalued – not least because their insights can provide essential guidance for developing effective climate strategies.

Women possess their own unique qualities and skills that frequently prove invaluable in addressing climate challenges; they excel in planning, communicating, and organising, often drawing on local knowledge that is frequently overlooked. Indigenous women, for instance, possess a wealth of knowledge about localised climate changes that others do not know, including changes in soil temperature and subtle environmental shifts that can offer a dearth of insights and contribute powerfully to expert knowledge on the environment.

The capacity for women to assess actual needs, solve problems, and share personal stories makes them particularly effective as first responders during crises. Their capacity to manage social interactions and relay narratives from survivors enables effective communication and resonates powerfully with affected communities. By leveraging these strengths, women play a crucial role in bridging gaps and implementing practical solutions to climate challenges.

The Intersection of Climate Action and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This workshop further covered how addressing climate change goes hand in hand with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Climate issues are interconnected with various SDGs, where one single goal cannot be addressed without considering all others. Therefore, to effectively combat climate change, efforts must be integrated across all SDGs, taking into consideration human rights, climate rights, and effective government systems, among others.

Organisations like Soroptimist International play a vital role in driving climate action and sustainable development. Through their initiatives and resources, they can develop strategies that align climate goals with broader development objectives. By recognising the interconnections between climate action and other SDGs, Soroptimists can contribute to more comprehensive and effective solutions.

Taking Action: The Role of Soroptimist International

Soroptimist International has taken a proactive stance on climate change, acknowledging the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations such as women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Efforts are underway to reframe the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction to be more inclusive and responsive to the needs of these groups. The organisation is also reviewing its position on climate action to ensure that it aligns with current challenges and opportunities.

Check out SISEAP’s Toolkit on Climate Action which offers some simple actions that you can take to help combat climate change.

Concluding Thoughts

This workshop, delivered by the SISEAP Federation, shed light on the profound impact of empowering women in global climate action. Women play a vital role in mitigating the impact of climate change, particularly when they are involved in decision-making processes. By promoting gender equality and addressing the unique challenges faced by women, climate action becomes more effective and sustainable, leading to a more resilient and equitable world for all. As Soroptimists continue to embrace their role as change-makers, they can drive climate action and contribute to a safe, healthy, and sustainable future for generations to come.