Islington Council’s Post

Attending the United Nations CSW 68. I cannot help but to reflect on my experience representing YWCA Canada and what it means to be part of that. Many voices at CSW 68 shared a common sentiment: opportunities aren’t handed to individuals like me; Truth is we must fight three times as hard to just get noticed. Several folks in my network already expressed they wish they had the same opportunity. Some want to know: “how did you get there?” My representation, therefore, carries a weight of possibilities for others in Canada facing similar barriers. It’s a reminder of the resilience and determination within our communities. CSW also offered a stark realization of the privileges that shape our world. I acknowledge the privilege of accessing the UN grounds. Not everyone has the means and connections to seize such opportunities. My presence underscores the importance of organizations like ours in creating spaces for diverse voices. Yet, my representation signifies more than a professional achievement—it’s a call to action. Having a “foot at the door” means that there’s much more work that still needs to be done to ensure that other BIPOC professionals have the chance to participate in crucial conversations. Our presence is vital in shaping policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion. By the way, being part of the YWCA Canada delegation brought validation and recognition for the impactful work we do as community builders. In all rooms I’ve been, Canada’s “reputation” for advancing gender equality on both policy and practical levels resonates globally, and more BIPOC participation amplifies this commitment. My role in the YWCA Canada delegation symbolizes a small breakthrough in power and privilege—a recognition that opportunities like these are not easily attained for individuals like myself, but also a reminder of the importance of advocating for inclusivity and representation at every level. #CSW68 #UnitedNations #YWCAMovement #UNWomen #SocialEntrepreneurship #WomenInTech

The Minister of State for Local Government Arbjan Mazniku and the ambassadors of Switzerland and Sweden signed the cooperation agreement on the project 'Strong Municipalities II'. With the signing of the agreement, a grant of 12 million Euros from Switzerland and Sweden will join 2 million Euros from Albania to support local government reforms. ‘This agreement continues our cooperation to strengthen local autonomy and improve services,’ said Arbjan Mazniku, Minister of State for Local Government. "We aim for more effective and efficient services,’ said Swiss Ambassador Ruth Huber. Swedish Ambassador Niklas Ström added: ‘We believe in this project's approach to improving service delivery and local democracy.’ Since 2019, the Strong Municipalities project has increased transparency and established an alliance for gender equality in local government. In this new phase, the project will work with the 61 municipalities to enhance services like preschool education and waste management, and to strengthen municipal administration and communication with citizens. The project began with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and now includes support from the Swedish Agency for Development and International Cooperation. Source: https://lnkd.in/dh9naidN #swissa

I am sooooo looking forward i to the next part of this journey. I am excited to be part of Equal Wales. To hear all about it visit US on Clubhouse 6am Thursday, like here https://lnkd.in/eDysH-Hq In the pursuit of an inclusive society, it's imperative to recognize that the participation of women in politics is not just a matter of gender equality but a fundamental aspect of effective governance. Wales, with its unique political landscape, presents an interesting case study. Wales has made significant strides in recent years in promoting gender diversity in its political arena. The establishment of the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) in 1999 marked a pivotal moment. This institution has allowed for a more localized and perhaps more collaborative approach to politics, potentially creating an environment conducive to diverse voices. One cannot discuss women in Welsh politics without acknowledging the formidable Tanni Grey-Thompson, whose journey from Paralympic champion to the House of Lords exemplifies the potential for diverse perspectives in public service. Her quote, "Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another's uniqueness," resonates deeply in this context. However, challenges persist. Women are still underrepresented in the Senedd, despite constituting over half of the population. This raises questions about the effectiveness of Welsh politics in truly representing its people. As a Head of Service, providing Access to Work for disabled people, I’m acutely aware of the importance of ensuring all voices are heard. The Welsh approach, with its emphasis on community and collaboration, could be a catalyst for change. As a SENCO/ALENCO and trainee Social Worker, I understand the significance of creating a supportive and empathetic environment for marginalised groups. In conclusion, the Welsh way in politics offers promise in fostering an inclusive society. It's not just about women in politics but about diverse perspectives contributing to better public service. As in champion inclusion through your charity and work coaching, remember the words of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, "Do not go gentle into that good night." The fight for an inclusive society, including equal representation in politics, requires passion, persistence, and, most importantly, unwavering authenticity. #inclusion #inclusionmatters #accessibilitypartners #justbettertogether

✊ A fresh initiative is underway: Move 4 Human Rights! As part of the MDT project, this alliance between human rights organisations and educational institutions aims to empower young individuals to create more inclusive societies. In bridging theory and practice on key topics relating to social justice and inclusivity, students will: 🔹 Receive specialized training & conduct human rights action research;  🔹 Provide suggestions on improving the Dutch asylum policy; 🔹 Engage with gender equality advocacy; 🔹 Enhance their critical thinking, data analysis, intercultural communication, and other necessary skills. We are looking forward to embarking on this project alongside De Haagse Hogeschool / The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Hogeschool Leiden, University of Twente, Erasmus University College, Initiatives of Change Netherlands, Human Rights in the Picture, Human Security Collective, Stichting Our Bodies Our Voice, and to this step towards fostering more inclusive communities. 🙌 Stay tuned as more updates and developments will follow soon! #Move4HumanRights #MDT #newpartnership #newbegginings #newproject #humanrights #socialjustice #equality #inclusivecommunities #impactcollaboration #creatingimpact #education #training #nonprofitorganization #socialimpact #EmpoweringChangeMakers #WeAreAllChangeMakers

The latest Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings has placed us in the top 15% in the world for our positive impact on society and the environment. We’ve done particularly well in terms of gender equality and responsible consumption and production. Learn more 👇 https://lnkd.in/e_SSiraq #THEGlobalImpact #THEUniRankings

Among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Quality Education" stands out as the cornerstone for achieving the rest. Why? Because education provides the fundamental base for progress across all fronts. "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela. By ensuring quality education for all, we empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to address the challenges outlined in the other SDGs. From eradicating poverty to promoting gender equality, combating climate change, and fostering innovation, education is the catalyst for change. "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." - Malcolm X. #SDGs #QualityEducation #SustainableDevelopment #Empowerment

🇹🇱 In #TimorLeste, women are joining in community efforts to prevent conflict and build peace. Learn more about the country's policy to promote women in peace & security👉 https://lnkd.in/dgrn22KM #WPSASEAN Mission of Canada to ASEAN | La mission du Canada auprès de l'ANASE , Ministry of Gender Equality and Family , Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Asia Pacific

Last year Germany announced its Feminist Foreign policy and my team was left with the question: how do we mainstream gender across our energy sector investments and grants in Southern Africa? Caroline Peters-Sanchez and I were thrilled to find and contract The Gender Research Alliance as we embarked on a year-long search for answers, relevant to other sectors and geographies in the KfW portfolio as well. Four studies later, we're in the process of finalizing a toolkit that will allow any of our colleagues to incorporate gender into their projects, so that none of us need gender-specific expertise in order to consider this crucial theme in our everyday work. #kfw #BMZ Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) #feministforeignpolicy #gendermainstreaming https://lnkd.in/gS7hcqvm

🌿 Celebrating a Milestone in Sustainable Energy! 🌍 Reflecting on a journey filled with purpose, we're thrilled to share a milestone that resonates deeply with our mission. Following dedicated collaboration with the exceptional Gender Research Alliance (GRA), we've received the final results of the KfW Gender Study in the energy sector for our several countries in Southern Africa—South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, and Zambia. This achievement goes beyond statistics; it's about creating a positive impact on a fundamental human rights issue—gender equality. We firmly believe that by placing this priority at the forefront, we not only contribute to societal well-being but also elevate the effectiveness and sustainability of our endeavors in the energy sector. This milestone reinforces our unwavering commitment to shaping a more inclusive and equitable future through sustainable energy initiatives. It's a testament to the power of collaboration, shared vision, and progress. As we celebrate this achievement, we look ahead with enthusiasm and dedication to furthering positive change in the realm of sustainable energy. 💡🌍 #SustainableEnergy #GenderEquality #CollaborationForChange #MilestoneCelebration 💡🌍 #GenderEquality #EnergySector #CollaborationForChange #SustainableFuture