International Women's Day 2024: Uniting Through Survivor Leadership with Nasreen Sheikh
Namaste Everyone,
A Journey of Hope and Resilience
Celebrating International Women's Day on March 8th, 2024, brings me back to 2008 when I first learned about this day while founding Local Women's Handicrafts in Nepal. Among the consequences of a devastating earthquake, our vision was to create a resilient community for the most vulnerable.
Transforming Dreams into Reality:
Over the years, our collective effort has nurtured a strong sisterhood, empowering hundreds of women and reaching out to thousands more, including men and children. Our approach of circular leadership has enabled healing, prosperity, and a deep sense of connection, making previously vulnerable women leaders of change. This year, we stand united under the banner of #inspireinclusion.
The Power of Women's Leadership
The transformation I've witnessed reaffirms my belief in the power of women's leadership to end modern slavery. It's amazing to see what we can achieve when we support women's resilience and leadership.
Strategies for Empowering Survivor Leadership:
This International Women's Day, I advocate for three key strategies to integrate survivor leadership into our efforts, aiming to protect and promote human creativity:
1. Foster Inclusivity:
Ensure that survivors' voices are central to organizational decision-making, enhancing innovation and empathy.
2. Promote Resilience:
Implement resilience and leadership training that leverages survivors' experiences, improving individual and collective strength.
3. Encourage Circular Leadership:
Adopt a circular leadership model that nurtures a supportive, innovative environment through shared learning and growth.
Commitment to Collective Progress:
Our journey towards healing and empowerment requires collective action, encompassing all genders and ages. This International Women's Day, let's envision a world where women are leaders in their communities, in control of their own lives, rights, and decisions.
In solidarity,
Nasreen Sheikh
