After extensive practice and studies in the field of Education, particularly in adult training,
I recognized that the professional experiences that brought me the greatest sense of accomplishment over the past ten years were intimately linked to equity and human rights projects.
More specifically, my favorite contracts as a consultant were most often related to :
The protection and defense of vulnerable communities exposed to discrimination and exploitation, and,
The empowerment of girls and women.
This specific global cause is very close to my heart and has led me to live extraordinary experiences on an international level.
This fall, one of my latest assignments related to Women empowerment took place in Santo Domingo de Los Tsáchilas, at the invitation of the Cantonal Union of Drivers of Santo Domingo.
This particular training was exclusively
aimed at the women staff and collaborators, who are in fact a minority group in a
traditionally male profession.
While professional driving can be a gratifying and rewarding career choice for women, it’s not without its drawbacks. Worldwide, They often face challenges related to their safety and ongoing harassment in a male-dominated industry.
Mr. Luis Arias Cornejo, the secretary general of the union decided to prevent similar issues by organizing the training and suggesting that the title be :
“Motivation for 21st-century women during difficult times.”
The first issue we explored was violence against women.
According to the United Nations, Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today and remains largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.
As we examined those difficult topics during the training, I was vigilant in recognizing the impact these conversations could have on all the participants while encouraging the openness necessary for interactivity.
I am grateful for the active, positive, and interested participation of the staff.
Furthermore, I have to admit that there was an added difficulty level to facilitating this session which was done in Spanish, a language I had not practiced for a few years now.
I was out of my comfort zone in that way, but it was all worth it.
The participants not only shared their experiences, but they also co-created concrete solutions to address the issue in their environment.
I am grateful for the opportunity, the warm welcome, and the Trust.
Most of all I look forward
to the impact
November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women,
in 2022, the theme is :
UNiTE! Activism to End Violence against Women & Girls!
Today, the United Nations will launch the UNiTE campaign (Nov 25- Dec 10) — an initiative of 16 days of activism concluding on the day that commemorates the International Human Rights Day (10 December). to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.
What could you personally do to help?
Click here to find simple ways to take action in preventing and eliminating Violence against women and girls
Amina-Kay Cantave M.Ed.
let's connect : aminakaycantave@academiemakaya.org