Scaling Gender Equality: Funding, Policy, and Action for Lasting Impact
Despite overwhelming evidence of the economic and social benefits of gender equality, funding for gender equity remains minimal and fragmented. In a resource-scarce world, how can we move from research to large-scale implementation? What policies, financing mechanisms, and community-driven strategies can drive sustainable progress?
This session will explore scalable interventions—from feminist philanthropy and cash transfers to taxation policies, mass media campaigns, and community activism—that can effectively shift gender norms and reduce gender-based violence. We will discuss how trust-based philanthropy can better support grassroots organizations, why investment in girls' education and women's leadership is both a moral and economic imperative, and how we can create inclusive solutions that address gender alongside other intersecting issues such as disability and economic access.
Key Questions:
How can feminist philanthropy—long-term, flexible, and locally-driven—transform gender equity funding?
What large-scale, cost-effective interventions (e.g., cash transfers, alcohol taxation, mass media, and community activism) can drive real change?
How can funding models ensure gender equality is embedded in all sectors, including STEM, agriculture, and disability inclusion?
What role does the media play in advancing gender rights and holding institutions accountable?
How can we engage youth, build networks, and support feminist movements to sustain long-term change?
This session will bring together funders, policymakers, activists, and practitioners to explore how we can move beyond symbolic efforts to implement sustainable, systemic solutions that drive gender equality at scale.
Session Co-Leaders:
Alexis Atlani is co-founder and co-director of NOVAH, using media to prevent domestic violence through radio dramas in Rwanda.
Amaka Ndirika is an independent CEO focused on leadership and social impact.
Amanda Sadalla is founder and CEO of Serenas, a nonprofit working with public institutions in Brazil to prevent violence against girls and women.
Clara Mlemba is a podcast host promoting STEM education and gender inclusion through interviews with scientists, educators, and policymakers.
Leah Tronel is Director of Development at The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, with a decade of fundraising and grantmaking experience.
Maryangel Garcia-Ramos is Executive Director of Women Enabled International, advocating for inclusion and rights of women with disabilities.
Sunghee Tark is CEO and co-founder of Bean Voyage, a feminist nonprofit co-creating sustainable value chains with women coffee producers.
Maudlyn Awuku is Founder of Anijie Global Foundation & GEWE Network.