Empowering Bonds: My Transformative Journey with Ashoka Fellows and the Gender Community in Mexico City

Introduction:

In a world marred by systemic inequalities, finding allies who share a common purpose in dismantling oppressive structures is crucial. Through the gathering organized by Ashoka México, Centroamérica y El Caribe, I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with members of the Gender Community in Mexico City. Together, we embarked on a journey of bond-building and tactical thinking, focusing on addressing gender issues and the stronghold of patriarchy within our respective organizations and countries. As a Black man from the USA, this experience has profoundly impacted me, transforming my perspective while allowing me to witness the brilliance of individuals dedicating themselves to creating spaces where all can thrive.

A New Perspective:

Growing up in the United States, I often faced racial discrimination and systemic inequalities. While these experiences helped shape my understanding of oppression, my time with Ashoka and members of the Gender Community exposed me to different challenges. Through open and honest discussions, I learned about the unique struggles faced by individuals directly affected by the patriarchal systems society perpetuates. This new perspective allowed me to view the fight against inequality through the lens of intersectionality, understanding the interplay between various forms of discrimination.

The Power of Collaboration:

Collaboration was at the heart of our journey within the retreat. As a diverse group passionate about fostering meaningful change, we found strength in our collective effort. We delved into our shared experiences, discussed strategies to challenge the patriarchal norms embedded within our countries, and explored innovative approaches to promote gender equality.

Bond Building:

Beyond the professional aspects of our collaboration, our bond was equally transformative. Our host facilitated various activities and workshops where we could deepen our connections and learn from one another's experiences. These powerful interactions fostered a sense of trust and empathy, allowing us to challenge one another constructively and offer support when needed.

Shedding Light on Patriarchy:

The gathering provided a platform for us to shed light on the pervasive effects of patriarchy. We dissected how patriarchal systems manifest in our societies, beliefs and personal lives through our discussions. By addressing the root causes of these issues, we aimed to create spaces where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute their talents to building a better world.

Moving Forward with Impact:

As the program progressed, we saw the tangible impact of our collective efforts. By challenging the status quo, we began to witness positive changes unfold. Our shared experiences and tactical thinking helped us develop innovative approaches to address gender issues and dismantle patriarchal structures. Together, we aimed to create more inclusive spaces where every voice is heard and valued.

Conclusion:

My transformative journey with the Ashoka Fellows and the Gender Community in Mexico City allowed me to recognize the brilliance within each individual committed to addressing gender inequality. By collaborating, sharing experiences, and challenging patriarchal norms, we worked towards creating meaningful impact and fostering spaces where everyone can thrive. This experience has broadened my perspective and fueled my determination to continue advocating for social justice, framed within an intersectional lens, back in the USA. I eagerly await our next gathering, knowing that each step brings us closer to shedding light on the effects of patriarchy and building a more equitable world for all. As such, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the individuals who made our stay and engagement with one another possible despite the language barriers: Carolina Nieto, Veronica Escalante, Maria Razquín Gomara, Andrea Nijssen, Darlymar Ruocco, Maria Cerdio, Ada Andreoni, and Valentina Valech.

Amazing Attendees

Last but certainly not least, I want to thank the newest members of my village and share their brilliant work with you so you can learn more about their movements.

Carlos Guida Leskevicius | DVCN

Carlos Güida is promoting new attitudes towards safe sexuality and reproductive health, focusing on men and masculinity.

Cheryl Perera | One Child

Cheryl is creating the social and structural conditions for sexually exploited children and children-peers to design, develop, and deliver self-empowerment programs, policies, and educational curricula.

Daniela Maudeth Valdivia Gutiérrez | Huellas y Futuro

Daniela led a movement to change the cultural mindset toward the treatment of women in Bolivia.

Jennifer DeCoste | Life.School.House

Jennifer advocates for an enhanced caring culture where people feel less isolated and more connected by participating in community-led, barter-based skills-sharing experiences.

Mara Virgínia Martins Rebeca dos Santos | Girl MOVE

Mara is the Head of Stakeholder Engagement (Europe/USA) and global Partnerships at Girl MOVE Academy. This Mozambican leadership academy promotes women's education and leadership through an intergenerational circular mentoring model.

Maryam Montague | Project Soar

Maryam is overcoming the socio-cultural inequalities that have hindered rural Moroccan girls from being masters of their destinies.

Mauro Vargas | GENDES

Mauro activates processes of reflection, intervention, research, and advocacy from a gender perspective, emphasizing masculinities and human rights to promote and strengthen empathetic and egalitarian relationships that contribute to social development.

Nani Zulminarni | PEKKA

Nani Zulminarni is reversing the pattern of discrimination against women who head their households by educating and enabling them to generate resources to provide for their families and raise their position in the community.

Sonal Kapoor | Protsahan India

Sonal Kapoor is bridging the gap in childcare systems by introducing an empathy-based system to heal and transform girl children who are either survivors or at high risk of abuse.

Sylwia Chutnik | MaMa Foundation

Sylwia Chutnik has created several initiatives to prevent mothers' social, economic, and cultural exclusion.

Viviana Waisman | Women's Link

Viviana uses the power of law to define and accelerate the rights of women and girls.