The webinar delved into the interplay between gender advocacy and programming, examining how they reinforce one another and amplify outcomes. A key focus was placed on the youth, whose dynamic agency is a catalyst for reimagining gender norms, challenging stereotypes, and propelling tangible change in communities and beyond.

Watch the recording here.
View the slides here.

Scroll down for post-event key takeaways.

About the Event

In an era defined by a growing commitment to social justice and equitable representation, the significance of gender advocacy and programming has ascended to the forefront of global discourse. Gender advocacy, an essential catalyst for transformative change, encompasses an array of strategies aimed at challenging and dismantling prevailing gender norms, fostering inclusivity, and empowering marginalized voices. Similarly, gender programming involves the deliberate design and implementation of initiatives that address the unique needs and challenges faced by diverse genders, ultimately striving to rectify historical disparities and cultivate societal transformation. As we navigate a complex landscape marked by evolving perspectives on gender identity and expression, the imperative to integrate both theory and praxis into advocacy efforts and programming interventions becomes ever more pronounced.

The focus of this webinar was to:

• Deepen participants' understanding of gender advocacy and programming, elucidating the nuances of gender dynamics, transformative strategies, and the significance of youth-centered approaches.
• Equip participants with practical tools, strategies, and skills needed to design, implement, and evaluate gender-sensitive advocacy campaigns and programming.
• Foster a dynamic space for cross-sectoral collaboration and knowledge-sharing, facilitating connections among participants to amplify the impact of gender advocacy and programming efforts.
• Share tips on crafting strategic advocacy plans that catalyze the transformation of gender-biased social norms and structures.

Post-Event Key Takeaways

The following takeaways are courtesy of Chisina Kapungu, Samantha Nyakundi, and Candice Chirwa.

Takeaway 1
Intersectionality in Gender Advocacy is fundamental. The importance of recognising and addressing intersectionality opened up my eyes to the multifaceted nature of gender-related issues. Understanding how race, class, sexuality and other factors intersect is essential in developing policies and strategies that genuinely benefit all individuals. 

Takeaway 2
The Power of Prioritising Self Care: The conversations surrounding mental health underscored the significance of taking care of oneself to be able to proactively and effective give back to advocacy work. I was particularly moved by the advice and stories both Raeesa and Mumbi shared. 

The webinar overall deepened my commitment to gender advocacy. 

Takeaway 3
Solidarity Building: Unpacking the Meaning of Meaningful Solidarity- In the pursuit of meaningful solidarity, we must strive to foster connections, empathy, and support among diverse groups, working together to address gender-based issues and inequalities. Building bridges and finding common ground are essential steps toward forging lasting bonds of solidarity that can drive meaningful change.

Takeaway 4
Activist and Political Work: The Collective Dimension-Another crucial takeaway revolved around the significance of activist and political work extending beyond the individual. The speakers highlighted the importance of recognizing that one's advocacy efforts are not solitary acts but rather integral components of a broader collective movement. Understanding that you exist as part of a larger community underscores the interdependence of activist endeavors. 

Takeaway 5
Importance of building coalitions and leveraging organization’s strengths for solidarity and shared mission.

Takeaway 6
Overcoming imposter syndrome and building the confidence to take action to address a problem.

Takeaway 7
Acknowledging that you will face resistance from community, society or from family so making intentional efforts for self-care is important. Activism is hard work and a journey so feeding your own cup is important.

About the Community of Practice

The YP2LE Learning Network brings together diverse stakeholders who seek to learn more and share about youth development. As one of six communities of practice (CoPs), the Gender CoP helps members share and benefit from collective learning. Learn more about the Gender CoP and other CoPs on YouthPower.org and register to connect with these communities.

You must be a registered member of YouthPower.org in order to participate in the discussion group. Register today!

About YouthPower 2: Learning and Evaluation (YP2LE)

YP2LE is a USAID-funded activity focused on building and disseminating evidence on Positive Youth Development (PYD). YP2LE’s goal is to give program implementers, researchers, and young changemakers the information, tools, and resources they need to develop high-quality, impactful, and sustainable youth programs.