In many Commonwealth countries, women play a critical role in managing and sustaining their families. Due to the dependence by women on the natural environment for income generation, subsistence agriculture and other activities to support their families and local communities, women possess a wealth of information and experiences that can contribute to national strategies and policy making to protect the environment. However, while women have an important role in their families, they do not have the power to inform decision making and influence policies at local or national levels.
This webinar will explore various issues which can assist women and young girls to make their voices heard in protecting their local environment, improve their sustainable livelihoods and eventually promote the protection of the planet. You are invited to join our session to:
- share experiences with women and girls on how to contribute to a healthy planet.
- encourage women and girls to embrace their inner strength to support climate change activities.
- share experiences and perspectives regarding sustainable development strategies and policymaking.
- discuss lessons learnt from the impact of COVID-19 for women across the world in the context of a safe environment.
Moderator
Ms Frances J. Ferreira
Education Specialist Gender, COL
Panelists
Dr Pamela Were -Kogogo is a Senior Lecturer of Environmental Studies at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. Her specialization is in conservation and management of environmental resources and her research areas include environmental biology, gender & biodiversity management for sustainable development. She presented numerous papers at conferences and is an editor and reviewer of training materials in water and environment.
Dr Dick-Forde is a social and environmental accounting expert and a Senior Administrator at the University of the West Indies Open Campus. She served as a Government Senator and Minister of Planning, Housing and the Environment in the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (2007-2010). Emily has a passion to advance responsible leadership for a just and fair society.
Ms Ta’hirih Fifita Hokafonu is the Principal Assistant Secretary and Head of Islands & Ocean Ecosystems Division for the Department of Environment in Tonga. She also coordinated the Tonga Ridge to Reef Project which was funded by Global Environment Facility (GEF) and UNDP. With a passion to look after and respect nature, while inspiring others to follow suit, her aim is to ensure that stewardship of the environment is a collective effort.