Amid the numerous social challenges facing the world, gender inequality further amplifies the obstacles for women in their daily lives. In response to this reality, civil society, by organizing itself into initiatives focused on female empowerment, works to build bridges so that girls and women can overcome these barriers and transform their lives.
Global employment data, for example, shows how enormous the disparity is. According to a report by the ILO (International Labour Organization), women's participation in the global labor market was 47.4% in 2022, compared to 72.3% for men – the difference means that for every economically inactive man, there were two women in that situation.
With so much inequality, it is necessary to act strategically to ensure that everyone has equal rights and opportunities not only in work, but also in salary, education, security, housing, health, and in all areas, without stigma or prejudice. Supporting institutions that champion female empowerment is a fundamental step on the path that will lead us to a more just future.
To celebrate International Women's Day, celebrated this Wednesday (8), the MBM Blog presents five initiatives that have received or are receiving support from the Bem Maior Movement in projects that represent, precisely, bridges to female empowerment and the reduction of inequalities. Learn more below:
Net makers of the Far South
The Association of Artisan Net Makers of the Far South is a group formed in a fishing community in Pelotas (RS), which transforms what would otherwise be thrown away into art. Fishing nets, once used to catch shrimp, become bags, wallets, and toiletry cases . Fish scales, which would otherwise be discarded, serve as material for the production of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and other pieces.
In the region where the Redeiras operate, local activities revolve around the waters of Lagoa dos Patos. Within this world linked to fishing, the women's union to create handicrafts has opened up more job opportunities. The pieces produced there are sold in stores in several states, such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Pará, and Pernambuco.
The group's values include a sense of community and forms of social, economic, and environmental sustainability. The necklaces, bags, and earrings they sell embody not only beauty but also the strength of women in transforming their realities.
…
Marianas, Women Who Inspire
In an unassuming way, a small group of women in Mariana (MG) began to meet to chat on the porch of a house. There, they talked about dreams, needs, and expectations. The meetings gained new followers, and the group grew exponentially and organically. After the dam rupture in the city in 2015, the movement grew significantly: in such a difficult period, they united, and each sought to support the other.
This is the story of the beginning of Marianas, Women Who Inspire, which today is a powerful network that supports and encourages entrepreneurship initiatives (such as starting your own business) and intrapreneurship (such as innovating within the company where you already work).
Among the activities they undertake, the Marianas organize meetings and events such as forums and fairs, which focus on fostering a sense of belonging, establishing a large network of relationships, and stimulating economic development. With unity and a desire to change their harsh reality, the Marianas are truly inspiring women.
…
Black Women Connections Network
The Elas Negras Conexões Network was created in 2007 to develop actions to strengthen and empower young Black women from quilombola communities in the Iguape Basin and Valley, in Bahia. By bringing together other initiatives from the interior of the state, a large network of women who are protagonists in social struggles was developed.
The movement is today an incredible network of Black women, young people, and leaders who come from quilombos (maroon communities) and who are dedicated to promoting the rights of traditional communities, focusing on the autonomy of women and youth.
For example, one of the projects carried out supports the struggle and participation of Black and Quilombola women, through the strengthening of social organization, in the realization of socio-environmental rights. This action takes place in a context where fisherwomen and shellfish gatherers live in areas directly and indirectly impacted by enterprises that have established themselves in the region.
…
Piauí Association of Transvestites and Transsexuals - APTTRA
The activities carried out by the Piauí Network of Transvestites and Transsexuals (APTTRA) seek to generate positive results that impact the lives of cisgender and transgender women who are in situations of social vulnerability.
The group strives to promote women's financial autonomy and self-esteem through actions defending citizenship. These initiatives aim to overcome situations of social risk, guarantee rights, and combat violence.
One of the projects carried out by APTTRA with the support of the Futuro Bem Maior program offered training in manicure, pedicure, and nail design for LBT women in vulnerable social situations. By learning these techniques and participating in the activities, the women become professionals, increasing their chances of obtaining a stable income and improving their quality of life.
…
Queens of the Sea Collective
Rainhas do Mar (Queens of the Sea) was born as a collective of Black and Quilombola women entrepreneurs specializing in traditional shellfish harvesting techniques. It was a response to the unfavorable situation faced by Quilombola fishing communities in the Acupe district of Santo Amaro, in the Recôncavo region of Bahia.
The group works to strengthen activities that promote the financial autonomy of shellfish gatherers and rural producers in the region, where a large part of the population depends on fishing, shellfish harvesting, and family farming.
The defense and preservation of fishing territory, the right to territory, and the fight against environmental racism are some of the causes championed by Rainhas do Mar. Among the activities offered are political training workshops, academic support, and sports classes.
">
