Chamas for Change is a gender-responsive, microfinance-based program supporting women and children in Kenya through the crucial early stages of life. Led by Moi University and the University of British Columbia, this project examines how Chamas—a community health volunteer-led initiative—helps women during pregnancy and the first 1,000 days of their children's lives, particularly in mitigating COVID-19’s impact. Using a participatory approach with the Community Advisory Board, the team found that Chama participants showed positive health outcomes, such as increased CHP visits and exclusive breastfeeding. Storybooks are also being co-created with participants to share these impactful findings. #ChamasForChange #WomenRise #MaternalHealth

As part of the Women RISE project, Ukuvula Isango sheds light on the resilience of rural women in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The project documentary captured the lives of women—before, during, and after COVID-19—revealing the socio-economic and health challenges they face. Through a 'People’s Science' approach, researchers lived alongside these women for six months, documenting their unique perspectives and knowledge. Together, they open a path toward empowerment and post-pandemic reconstruction. Join us in witnessing their strength, stories, and journey. #WomenRISE #UkuvulaIsango #resilientwomen

The Cwel Plus program, a collaboration between the South African Medical Research Council and Canada’s Simon Fraser University, seeks to uplift women caregivers of children and adolescents living with HIV (CALHIV) in KwaZulu-Natal. Through a combined cash transfer and gender-transformative livelihood intervention, this initiative is driving positive change in caregivers’ lives. Using a mixed-methods approach, including a cluster randomized trial and qualitative interviews, the project evaluates the program’s impact, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness in fostering psychological well-being and gender equality. #CwelPlus #WomenEmpowerment #CALHIV

The Gender Desks were part of the Advancing Gender Equity in Media & Civil Society in East Africa (AGEMC-EA), which aimed to strengthen media organizations and civil society in addressing gender and social barriers to equality.