Celebrating Women, Empowering Change

Over the last 20 years, women’s participation in the global workforce has steadily grown, creating more opportunities for women to contribute to economies and communities (World Bank). In Canada, enrolment of women in STEM programs rose by 62% between 2010/2011 and 2022/2023 (Statistics Canada). Globally, more than 90% of girls are now enrolled in primary school (UNESCO), reflecting significant progress in access to education.

International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of women, while also recognizing the need to address persistent gaps that remain in the movement for women’s rights and equality.

This year, we recognize the theme Give To Gain: the power of reciprocity and support. Through sharing knowledge, training, education, advocacy, donations, and so much more, we know that when we help break barriers, everyone thrives.

At Cuso International, we take pride in our continuous recognition, support, and championing of women around the world. As a core priority, we actively address inequality, injustice, and marginalization in the pursuit of equity and inclusion for all.

In Ethiopia, many girls face early marriage, discrimination, and unsafe or unsupportive schools, making education a daily challenge. With the help of local partners, the U-GIRLS 2 program, girls receive support from their families, schools, and communities to stay in school and pursue their dreams. As a result, more girls are continuing their education, with school enrolment among participants increasing by 8.1%

Beyond education, strengthening women’s voices and leadership is also critical to advancing equity and inclusion for all. In many parts of the world, women’s rights organizations play a vital role in advancing equity and inclusion, yet they often face limited resources and barriers that restrict their impact. Through the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) program, Cuso has reached 90+ women-led organizations and local partners. These organizations strengthen leadership, advocacy, and organizational capacity. By supporting these organizations to influence policies, challenge harmful norms, and expand opportunities, the program helps ensure that women’s voices are heard and their rights are upheld.

In St Vincent and The Grenadines, an EmpowerHER Wellness Conference equipes young girls with knowledge and resources about their health, wellness, and personal growth through interactive workshops and expert-led discussions. Participants explore essential topics related to women’s health, including menstrual health, mental well-being, feminine hygiene, and Gender-Based Violence response and prevention.

Every day, we see brilliant, inspiring, strong, and resilient women making a change, improving not only their lives, but their families and communities.