As part of our commitment to empowering women within our communities, Equity and Empowerment (EE) has launched an innovative project aimed at strengthening women’s participation in decision-making and community leadership. This initiative highlights the vital role women play as change-makers and seeks to support their right to lead initiatives and shape the future.

Project Activities and Phases:

1. Mapping Women’s Groups:
   In partnership with Suriana, EE conducted a mapping exercise in Armanaz, identifying ten active women-led groups. The selection was based on clear criteria, including female leadership, a focus on women’s issues, active community engagement, and at least five active female volunteers per group.
2. Intensive Training Sessions:
   Six tailored training sessions were delivered, focusing on core leadership and decision-making structures in the humanitarian context. Topics included:

• Humanitarian Leadership Group (HLG)
• Strategic Steering Group (SSG)
• Gender Working Groups (GWG)
• Community-led and participatory strategies (CSSR)

3. Individual and Group Skill Development:
   The project also offered training on soft skills, leadership, decision-making, and administrative tools such as MS Office, helping participants build personal and group capacities.
4. Participatory People’s Forums:
   Together with the women-led groups, EE established community forums as spaces for dialogue, engagement, and collective action. Two online forums were held, bringing together diverse community members to discuss women’s issues and share perspectives.
5. Research Development:
   Drawing from discussions within the forums, the women’s groups developed ideas and recommendations centered on women’s empowerment and leadership. A dedicated researcher was commissioned to develop a comprehensive study based on these contributions. The research will be launched at a special event in Gaziantep, attended by representatives from the UN, international and local NGOs, and community networks.

Project Message:

This project aims to build women’s capacities and elevate their contributions in humanitarian and community spaces. By providing the necessary tools and fostering inclusive decision-making processes, we work toward transformational change rooted in transparency, equity, and collective leadership.

“Enhancing Women’s Participation in Decision-Making” is not just a series of workshops—it is a journey to empower women as leaders and establish their role as key drivers of change. Through this project, we strive to create a participatory environment where women can express their voices, exercise their right to lead, and help shape a future that is more just, inclusive, and representative.

We firmly believe that women are the cornerstone of social progress, and that their empowerment is not a choice—but a necessity for sustainable development and strong, resilient communities.