How do you build a feminist movement, a space, a network?
“Investing in women's leadership is the way we are going to change a world from one of conflict and violence to one of peace and hope”- Leymah Gbowee.
Nobel Women's Initiative (NWI) recognizes the indispensable role of women in peace-building, a role that has historically been overlooked and marginalized in formal peace processes. This understanding, coupled with firsthand experiences of NWI’s Nobel Peace Prize laureates in facing and overcoming challenges through solidarity and collective efforts, underpins their commitment to empowering women peacebuilders.
Sister-to-Sister Program
Meet the 2024 Sister to Sister Team here!
For over a decade, the Sister to Sister Mentorship Program has been a cornerstone of the Nobel Women's Initiative's strategy to foster a world where feminist peace and security prevail. Initially running from 2012 to 2019 as a six-week residential program in Ottawa and Antigonish in partnership with Coady Institute, it offered an immersive mentorship experience.
Caption: (l-r) Mairead Magure, Nobel peace laureate; Neesa Medina, Honduras; Htet Htet Aung, Burma; Shirin Ebadi, Nobel peace laureate; Riya William, South Sudan; Jody Williams, Nobel peace laureate in Ottawa, Canada. Sister to Sister Mentorship Program, 2015. Credit: Susanne Ure/Nobel Women's Initiative
However, the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a thoughtful reevaluation and transformation of the program. It was relaunched as an intensive eight-week virtual learning space, specifically designed to bring together young feminist leaders- sisters- from varied backgrounds, including those from areas experiencing states of emergency such as military coups, attacks, and natural disasters. This pivot not only adapted to the global crisis but also expanded its reach and impact.
The program is dedicated to building a robust community of support, enhancing skills in advocacy, communication, and peacebuilding. It connects participants with mentors, experts, and alumni, deepening their engagement with feminist movements and creating a network of solidarity and mutual support.
To date, NWI Sister to Sister program has welcomed 77 young feminist peace activists, aiming to:
- Deepen their understanding of feminist leadership, philosophy, and practice.
- Equip them with tools to challenge and reshape public narratives and policies around peace, social, and environmental justice.
- Broaden their feminist networks for support and collective action.
- Increase their collective insight into the diverse ways feminist leaders drive social change through principles, practices, methodologies, and innovations.
Participants have described the program as more than just a series of sessions; it's a community where they find a sense of belonging, a place that fosters a feminist movement and a strong and powerful network that extends beyond the program's duration. It's a bond they aim to nurture together, sustaining a safe haven for learning, reflection, and even some fun amidst the challenges feminist activists face daily.
“I was expecting for a program that allowed me to learn and expand my network and this program exceeded those expectations.” Sister to Sister participant - Cohort 2023
In a world where feminist activists often feel isolated and struggle to combat various forms of violence, Sister to Sister offers a brave and trusting space. It's where women collaborate, learn, and voice their opinions. Most importantly, it's where they see themselves mirrored in the struggles and experiences of their fellow sisters.