GEWO Magazine | Issue 01

OUR STORY: Driven by the ‘Why’ of Women’s Empowerment

Founded in 2019. GEWO has evolved from a grassroots movement into a global force for women’s empowerment. Our story is one of triumph and transformation, marked by ground-breaking initiatives and empowering stories of women who’ve turned challenges into opportunities.

Global Empowering Women Organisation (GEWO) stands at the forefront of advocating for women’s empowerment and gender equality, firmly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals, an initiative spearheaded by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, represent a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

GEWO’s mission resonates deeply with these objectives, particularly in advocating for gender equality and empowering all women and girls – a critical SDG target.

Our organisation is dedicated not just to supporting these goals but to actively working towards their realisation. We collaborate with various organisations and entities, enhancing their efforts through focused advocacy, and driving impactful change across the globe.

Our approach is holistic and inclusive, aimed at creating a world where peace and equality are not mere aspirations but tangible realities. By inspiring change and fostering a global culture that uplifts and supports women, GEWO plays a pivotal role in building a better, more equitable world for all.

Building on this foundation, GEWO has developed innovative platforms and initiatives that directly respond to these challenges, with a focus on creating lasting, positive change.

Pioneering Initiatives for a Brighter Future

• GEWO TV: A dynamic platform offering inspiring content to foster women’s leadership and empowerment. GEWO TV is dedicated to connecting women with their purpose, advocating for peace, and empowering them to rise above oppression and poverty.

• GEWO Magazine: More than just a publication, GEWO Magazine is a voice for women globally. Each issue is filled with stories of resilience, educational insights, and resources geared towards empowering women and advocating for their rights.

• GEWO Symposium: This annual event is a convergence of global thought leaders and changemakers. It serves as a forum for discussing strategies, sharing experiences, and building partnerships to further the agenda for women’s empowerment.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Our story is not just about recognising the challenges women face; it’s about actively working towards solutions.

We invite you to be part of this transformative journey. Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, is vital in driving our projects and making a tangible impact in the lives of women and communities worldwide.

Together, let’s work towards a world where every woman has the opportunity to realise her potential, where equality is not just a goal but a reality for all.

EMPOWERING VOICES: A Journey Towards Change

Welcome to a journey of empowerment, advocacy, and innovation. In the heart of every woman lies the potential to create, lead, and inspire. The Global Empowering Women Organisation (GEWO) is dedicated to unlocking this potential, fostering a world where women are not just participants but leaders in shaping their destiny.

This edition of our magazine is a mosaic of stories, insights, and initiatives aimed at elevating the

status of women globally. From the boardroom to the grassroots, our mission is clear: to advocate for equality, educate for empowerment, and inspire through action.

As you turn these pages, expect to find a blend of hard-hitting facts, heartfelt narratives, and pragmatic solutions. We delve into issues that women face in the developed world, the silent epidemic of poverty and homelessness among ageing women, the global impact of femicide, and much more.

Join us in this voyage of discovery and action, as we not only highlight challenges but also celebrate the triumphs and resilience of women worldwide. Together, we can write a new chapter in the story of women’s empowerment.

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THE WORKPLACE: Beyond the Glass Ceiling

In the modern professional landscape of developed countries, the journey of women towards workplace equality is marked by subtle, yet profound barriers. The narrative begins with personal stories, each a unique testimony to the challenges faced: unequal pay for equal work, opportunities missed, and glass ceilings unacknowledged. These stories are not just anecdotes, but reflections of a deeper, systemic issue rooted in historical contexts and organisational cultures.

As we delve into these personal accounts, a pattern emerges, one where implicit biases in hiring and evaluations, coupled with societal expectations, create an environment where women’s professional achievements are often undervalued. The psychological impact of these inequalities is significant, leading to phenomena like imposter syndrome, where despite their competence and success, women feel like frauds, fearing they might be ‘exposed’ at any moment.

The implications extend beyond individual experiences, affecting broader societal structures. Economic disparities and the perpetuation of outdated gender roles find their sustenance in these workplace dynamics, shaping the fabric of society and influencing future generations.

Yet, amidst these challenges, there is a narrative of resilience and progress. Initiatives aimed at breaking down these barriers are gaining momentum. Legislative changes, corporate policies promoting gender equality, and grassroots movements advocating for women’s rights are rewriting the story. These efforts, combined with the growing awareness and support for gender equality, pave the way for a future where the professional landscape is devoid of these hidden barriers, a future where women’s contributions are recognised and

valued on an equal footing with their male counterparts.

In this evolving narrative of workplace equality, the Global Empowering Women Organisation (GEWO) emerges as a beacon of hope and support. GEWO is committed to contributing to this progress, offering resources, advocacy, and a platform for women to voice their challenges and triumphs. Their involvement represents not just a commitment to change but an active participation in shaping a future where professional women are empowered and valued equally. This journey, though complex, is illuminated by GEWO’s dedication to breaking down barriers and fostering an environment of true gender equality in the workplace.

This journey, though fraught with challenges, is a testament to the strength and resilience of women striving for equality in the workplace. It is a narrative of ongoing struggle, but also of hope and relentless pursuit of a more equitable world.

CULTURAL NORMS AND THE WEIGHT OF EXPECTATION

The societal expectations placed on women often start in early childhood, with cultural norms dictating how girls should behave, dress, and even think. These early experiences lay the foundation for a lifetime of navigating expectations, often internalising societal norms to the point where they significantly influence major life decisions.

In professional settings, women frequently face the challenge of balancing their careers with societal expectations around family and caregiving roles. This balancing act is not just a matter of time management but also a psychological struggle, as women grapple with feelings of guilt and inadequacy, regardless of the choices they make.

The impact on mental health is significant. The pressure to conform can lead to chronic stress

and anxiety, affecting women’s overall well-being. Mental health professionals emphasise the importance of acknowledging and addressing these cultural pressures, advocating for greater support systems and community awareness to help women navigate these challenges.

While cultural norms and expectations play a significant role in shaping women’s lives, there is a growing movement towards redefining these norms. As society becomes more aware of these pressures, there is hope for a future where women are free to make choices based on their aspirations and needs, rather than the weight of societal expectations. This evolution requires collective effort and understanding, moving towards a world that celebrates diversity in women’s choices and experiences.

GEWO recognises the profound impact of cultural norms on women’s mental health and choices. They are dedicated to providing support and resources to help women navigate these societal expectations.

Through advocacy, education, and empowerment programs, GEWO aims to foster a culture where women are free to make their own choices without the weight of societal pressure. Their work is pivotal in driving the conversation and action needed to reshape these cultural norms, paving the way for a future where every woman can thrive unencumbered by traditional expectations.

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We celebrate the resilience and strength that many women have shown in challenging and reshaping cultural norms. As they break barriers and redefine expectations, they pave the way for future generations to live in a world where choices are not dictated by gender. This shift is not just empowering for individual women but transformative for society as a whole. It promises a future of greater equality, understanding, and respect. The Global Empowering Women Organisation (GEWO) stands at the forefront of this change, championing the cause of women everywhere as they journey towards a future where expectations are not weights to carry, but wings that allow them to soar.

DOMESTIC RESPONSIBILITIES: The Unseen Labour

Sarah’s evenings are a flurry of activity: preparing dinner, checking homework, and tidying up. It’s a routine that resonates with many working women who transition seamlessly from their professional role to their domestic one. The invisible second shift begins the moment they step into their homes, a shift that is as demanding as their day jobs, yet often goes unrecognised.

According to UNICEF Data (2023), the numbers paint a stark picture: women spend more hours on housework and childcare than men, even when they are equally committed to their careers. Globally, the burden of unpaid domestic and care work falls disproportionately on women. This pattern starts from an early age, with girls aged 5-14 spending 160 million more hours every day on unpaid care and domestic work than boys of the same age. This disparity continues into adulthood and is perpetuated by longstanding norms and beliefs about the roles of women and girls in society. This unequal distribution of unpaid work has serious implications for the well-being of women and girls, limiting their time for learning, personal development, and leisure, thereby impacting their future socioeconomic prospects Additionally, the mental health consequences of this imbalance in unpaid work are significant. Providing

long-term or high-intensity care for a sick or elderly relative has been linked to higher rates of psychiatric morbidity in women, such as depression, anxiety, and lower life satisfaction. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the gendered nature of unpaid work became even more apparent, with surveys revealing that women reported spending more time on domestic chores compared to men. In households, women were more likely to reduce working hours and adapt employment schedules due to increased time spent on unpaid care. This has been associated with greater levels of psychological distress among women than men.

This disparity isn’t just a matter of physical effort; it’s a reflection of deep-rooted societal norms that designate domestic tasks as primarily women’s work. The consequences of this imbalance are far-reaching, impacting women’s opportunities for leisure, self-care, and professional growth.

These women’s stories are tales of juggling and multitasking. One woman talks about rushing from a crucial meeting to make it in time for her child’s awards assembly, another about her nightly ritual of preparing for the next day once her children are asleep. Each story is unique, but they all share a common thread of relentless effort and sacrifice in managing both home and career.

Amidst these challenges, there’s an underlying theme of extraordinary resilience. These women often become experts in time management and prioritisation, skills honed out of necessity. Their ability to adapt and excel in both domains is a testament to their strength, yet it raises questions about the sustainability of this dual burden.

The emotional ramifications of this double duty are profound. Feelings of being constantly overwhelmed and under pressure are common, with little time for self-reflection or relaxation. Many women speak of the guilt associated with not meeting their own or others’ expectations in both their professional and personal lives.

In many households, these unbalanced responsibilities can lead to tension and resentment. When one partner consistently carries a heavier domestic load, it can create an undercurrent of imbalance in the relationship. Relationship counsellors often highlight the need for open communication and shared understanding to navigate these challenges effectively.

Recognising the impact of these challenges, some forward-thinking companies are introducing policies aimed at creating a more balanced life for their employees. These include initiatives like jobsharing, telecommuting, and onsite childcare, acknowledging that supporting employees in their domestic roles is beneficial for overall productivity and job satisfaction.

GEWO has a vision for the future – a future where domestic responsibilities are shared equally, regardless of gender. It’s a call for a cultural revolution that values domestic work and sees it as a shared responsibility. This vision is not just for the benefit of women but for the betterment of families and society as a whole.

NAVIGATING THE INTERSECTIONAL LABYRINTH

Understanding

Intersectionality

Intersectionality, a concept introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw, is essential for understanding the unique challenges faced by women with intersecting identities. It’s about recognising how being a woman intersects with other aspects of one’s identity, such as race, sexual orientation, and disability. Intersectionality sheds light on how overlapping identities compound experiences of discrimination and privilege, often leading to unique challenges that are not fully addressed in broader discussions of gender inequality. For instance, a woman of colour may navigate distinct challenges in the workplace, facing both gender and racial biases. Similarly, an LGBTQIA+ woman may encounter specific societal stigmas and legal hurdles.

Understanding these intersectional experiences is crucial in grasping the multifaceted nature of discrimination and working towards more inclusive solutions.

Women of Colour

Women of colour embody a powerful blend of racial and gender identities, which shapes their experiences in profound ways. In the realm of professional development, they often confront a landscape marred by systemic barriers and subtle biases. This reality, however, is met with remarkable fortitude and an unwavering spirit of resilience. Their journey is one of navigating through and rising above these dual challenges, redefining leadership and success in their unique voice. By celebrating their achievements and understanding their struggles, society can move towards a more

equitable landscape where the diversity of women’s experiences is fully recognised and valued.

LGBTQIA+ Women

The experiences of LGBTQIA+ women are characterised by a pursuit of authenticity in a world often rigid in its understanding of gender and sexuality. They face a tapestry of challenges – societal stigma, unequal legal protections, and often, a lack of visibility in mainstream narratives. Yet, within this struggle lies immense strength and solidarity. These women are at the forefront of advocating for inclusivity and equality, shaping a world where every individual has the freedom to express their true identity without fear or prejudice. Their stories inspire change and foster a deeper understanding of the richness and complexity of human identity.

Women with Disabilities

Women with disabilities experience a unique intersection of gender and disability, leading to distinct challenges and perspectives.

Navigating a world that is often not designed for their needs, these women demonstrate incredible resilience and ingenuity. From advocating for accessible environments to challenging societal stereotypes, their contributions are pivotal in promoting a more inclusive society. Their experiences highlight the importance of viewing disability through a lens of ability and potential, where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and make her mark.

The stories and challenges of women with intersecting identities underscore the necessity of an inclusive approach in our social, legal, and political frameworks.

Organisations like GEWO play a crucial role in advocating for these diverse groups of women, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.

By embracing intersectionality, we can work towards a world where the richness of every woman’s identity is recognised and celebrated. This journey towards inclusivity and equality requires empathy, understanding, and action from all corners of society, making it a collective endeavour towards a more just and equitable world.

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TWILIGHT STRUGGLE: The Silent Crisis of Older Women’s Financial and Housing Insecurity

In the twilight years of their lives, many women face a silent crisis. It’s a time when the cumulative effects of a lifetime of economic disadvantages begin to take a profound toll. For those who have gone through a divorce, this period can be particularly challenging. The financial stability they once knew, often built on the foundation of a dual-income household, crumbles. Suddenly, they find themselves grappling with the loss of a partner’s income, compounded by the challenges of re-entering the workforce late in life or the inadequacy of retirement savings that were never meant for single-income living.

These struggles are not isolated incidents but are symptomatic of broader systemic issues. Throughout their lives, women often earn less than men due to the gender pay gap and are more likely to take career breaks for caregiving or work parttime. These factors result in smaller pensions and inadequate savings, leaving them financially vulnerable as they age. For older women, especially, the consequences of these disparities are stark, often leading to a precarious financial situation in their retirement years.

Amidst these economic challenges, the shadow of domestic violence looms large for some. Escaping abusive relationships later in life can plunge women into financial

instability. They may face legal fees, lose access to shared income, and bear the psychological toll of years of abuse. The scarcity of support systems for older women who are survivors of domestic violence adds another layer of difficulty, making recovery and stability even more challenging.

One of the most distressing outcomes of these compounded factors is the increased risk of homelessness and housing insecurity. The harsh reality is that more older women are finding themselves without a stable place to call home. Their stories, marked by resilience in the face of adversity, paint a vivid picture of the urgent need for support and intervention. This article advocates for a societal response to this growing crisis. It calls for policies that specifically address the unique challenges faced by older women. There is a pressing need for affordable housing initiatives, social security reforms, and targeted support services, all aimed at ensuring that older women receive the security and dignity they deserve. “Twilight Struggle” is not merely an exploration of the challenges faced by these women but a call to action for change, underscoring the critical need to address the financial and housing insecurity that threatens the well-being and dignity of many older women in their later years.

48,800

Femicides/Feminicides: In 2022, approximately 48,800 women and girls worldwide were killed by their intimate partners or other family members, meaning more than five women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family.

United Kingdom (2020)

53% of femicide perpetrators had a history of violence against women.

52% of women were killed by a current or former partner.

70% of the killings occurred in the home.

South Africa

A woman is killed every four hours.

The femicide rate is five times the global average.

Europe (2020)

Poland recorded approximately 400 femicides. In Italy, a woman is killed every three days on average.

Middle East

Iran reports 400-500 honour killings annually.

Latin America & the Caribbean

In Argentina, one woman is killed every 32 hours. El Salvador and Jamaica have the highest and second-highest rates of femicide in the world, respectively.

USA & Canada

In the US, 3 women are murdered daily by current or former partners.

45%

Impact of COVID-19 on Violence: The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified violence against women and girls. In 2021, 45% of women reported that they or a woman they know has experienced a form of violence.

Prevalence of Violence: Globally, an estimated 736 million women, almost one in three, have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence at least once in their life. This figure does not include sexual harassment.

6%

Sexual Violence: Globally, 6% of women have been subjected to sexual violence by someone other than their husband or partner.

Trafficking in Women: In 2020, for every 10 victims of human trafficking detected globally, about four were adult women and two were girls. Most victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation (91%) are women.

736 million

Violence Against Women and Girls: Globally, approximately 736 million women, almost one in three, have experienced physical and/or sexual violence at least once in their life. Most violence against women is perpetrated by current or former partners. Violence against women and girls intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic.

388 million

Global Poverty Among Women and Girls (2022 Estimates): An estimated 388 million women and girls globally live in extreme poverty, primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa (62.8%) and Central and Southern Asia (20.9%).

Women’s poverty rates exceed those of men in all regions, with the disparity most pronounced when national poverty lines are used, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean (UN Women, UNDP and Pardee Center for International Futures, 2022)

Homelessness in Women: Studies show an underestimation in the number of homeless women. Effective responses require strategies that recognise women’s specific needs, including the link between domestic abuse and homelessness (University of York, 2021)

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THE POWER OF HUMANITY: Lighting a Path for Women’s Rights

In a world where women and girls often face daunting challenges, the power of humanity shines as a beacon of hope and progress. Across the globe, individuals, communities, and organisations are joining forces to combat the pervasive issues of violence, poverty, and discrimination against women. This united front exemplifies the strength and resilience inherent in human solidarity.

At the forefront are grassroots movements and local initiatives that are making significant strides in supporting women in need. From small villages to bustling cities, people are coming together to provide safe spaces, legal assistance, and emotional support for those escaping violence and abuse. These efforts often go beyond immediate aid, focusing on empowering women through education, skill-building, and advocacy.

In regions facing high rates of violence and femicide, community response has been particularly inspiring. Local groups are not only offering refuge and support to survivors but are also actively working to change societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate gender-based violence. Through educational programs and awareness campaigns, they are challenging deeply ingrained beliefs and paving the way for a more equitable society.

The global response to women’s poverty and homelessness is another testament to the power of humanity. Understanding that these issues are often interlinked with domestic abuse, organisations and governments are developing targeted strategies to address the specific needs of women. Efforts include providing access to affordable housing, financial assistance, and comprehensive support services.

The collective action in response to these issues is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when compassion, empathy, and determination come together.

It is a story of hope, a narrative that underscores the potential for positive change in the face of adversity. This global movement serves as a call to action for continued support, advocacy, and solidarity to ensure that the rights, dignity, and safety of women and girls are upheld worldwide. The power of humanity, in its most empathetic and action-oriented form, is indeed a formidable force in the fight for women’s rights and equality.

UNDERSTANDING THE GAP IN WOMEN’S HEALTH

In the realm of modern healthcare, a critical yet often overlooked issue stands out: the significant disparities in women’s health research and understanding. Historically, medical research has been largely centred around male physiology, leading to a substantial gap in comprehensive knowledge about women’s health. This lack of focus on women in medical studies has resulted in treatments and medications that may not be fully effective for women, or may produce different side effects.

According to an article “Closing the data gaps in women’s health” (Burns, Grabowsky, Kemble, & Perez, 2023), there are several critical

findings which can be highlighted in addressing the disparities in women’s healthcare:

• Physician Gender and Diagnosis: Women are more likely to be diagnosed with female-specific conditions such as menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis if their physician is a woman. This suggests that gender biases in diagnosis exist, influenced by the sex of the diagnosing physician.

• Educational Gaps in Medical Training: A significant number of internal medicine residency programs do not include essential women’s health topics like

menopause and PCOS in their core curriculum. This lack of training in women’s health issues among medical professionals contributes to the underdiagnosis and mismanagement of these conditions.

• Disparities in Healthcare

Utilisation: Despite women being more likely than men to seek healthcare, there are still significant gaps in understanding and addressing their specific health needs. This discrepancy highlights the need for more focused research and attention on women’s health issues.

• Data Collection and Analysis:

There is a global inconsistency in the collection of women’s health data. Less than 10% of countries reported data related to female access to contraception in 2020, and many countries still only provide data for married women. This lack of comprehensive data undermines the ability to understand and address women’s health issues effectively.

These findings underscore the urgent need for a more gendersensitive approach in medical research, education, and practice to address the unique health needs of women.

A key area where these disparities become evident is in the misunderstanding of women’s health symptoms, especially for conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders. Women’s symptoms can differ significantly from men’s, yet these differences are not widely recognised, leading to

misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. This lack of awareness in the medical community can critically impact women’s health outcomes.

Mental health is another domain where gender biases in diagnosis and treatment manifest.

Conditions like depression and anxiety, which are more prevalent among women, may not be diagnosed correctly or taken as seriously as they should be. This impacts the quality of care and support provided to women.

Reproductive health, often narrowly associated only with childbearing, is a much broader field encompassing menstrual health, menopause, and conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. These areas require more attention and understanding to provide adequate healthcare solutions for women.

The disparities are further complicated by cultural and socioeconomic factors. In many societies, there are restrictive cultural norms around discussing

women’s health openly, while economic barriers can prevent women from accessing quality healthcare. This can lead to significant health risks being overlooked or inadequately addressed.

The need for a shift in medical research and practice is clear. This involves actively including women’s health in all its complexity in medical research and healthcare practices. By enhancing research, increasing awareness, and advocating for more inclusive healthcare, the aim is to bridge the gap in women’s healthcare, ensuring all women receive the comprehensive and effective healthcare they deserve.

The call to action is for the healthcare industry, policymakers, and society at large to work towards bridging these disparities. Through increased awareness, research, and inclusive healthcare practices, it’s possible to ensure better health outcomes for women globally.

ADVANCING WOMEN’S RIGHTS IN SOCIETY AND POLICY

As we stand at the crossroads of societal transformation, it’s imperative to recognise the critical role of dismantling gender inequality in shaping a more equitable future. This journey involves not just recognising the challenges women face but actively engaging in efforts to create change. From redefining societal norms to advocating for progressive policies and embracing

Societal Change

The need for a cultural shift, advocating for increased awareness and education to change attitudes towards gender equality. It highlights the importance of redefining traditional gender roles and promoting equal representation in all spheres of life.

individual advocacy, each step is vital in building a world where gender equality is not just an ideal, but a lived reality.

The path to gender equality is one of collective effort and unwavering commitment. It calls for a holistic approach that intertwines societal change, policy reform, and individual action. As we forge ahead, the goal remains clear: to create an inclusive

Policy Reform

Advocating for policies that support gender equality and women’s rights. Key areas include ensuring equal pay, combating workplace discrimination, enhancing women’s healthcare, and promoting education for girls and women.

society where every woman is empowered to live without the constraints of inequality.

This vision for the future is not just a beacon of hope but a testament to the power of collective action in dismantling the barriers that hold back half of humanity.

Individual Advocacy

Encourages individuals to become advocates for change, highlighting the impact of personal actions and community involvement. It provides practical tips on how to support women’s rights in everyday life and engage in community initiatives promoting gender equality.

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Lighting a path for Women’s rights