THE British High Commission in TT has partnered with local NGO Conflict Women to mark 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Every year, from November 25 to December 10, the world observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
[caption id="attachment_1123975" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Asiya Mohammed, CEO of Conflict Women, fourth right, and other guest look on at the proceedings. -[/caption]
In a news release on November 28, the high commission said the November 26 event featured a silent auction of unique artworks and handcrafted jewellery created by survivors of gender-based violence.
"These pieces are not just objects but represent strength and transformation," the release said.
All proceeds from the auction, it said, went towards supporting these courageous individuals, providing them with essential resources and opportunities for survivors to receive seed capital, mentorship, and business training to launch their small businesses.
The event opened with brief remarks from permanent secretary in the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Rita Toussaint and permanent secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister (Gender Affairs Unit) Vijay Gangapersad
.
The release said, there was a "powerful" Indian classical dance performance by Reshma Rajeev from Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Centre that "depicted the journey of empowerment and resilience within women, drawing on the rich storytelling traditions of Indian classical dance."
This year, Conflict Women celebrates its tenth anniversary.
Asiya Mohammed, CEO of Conflict Women, is a recipient of the 100th Commonwealth Point of Light Award from the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2019 for her "exceptional service to survivors of domestic and sexual violence" for her work with Conflict Women.
[caption id="attachment_1123976" align="alignnone" width="683"] The unique artworks that were sold at the silent auction. -[/caption]
British High Commissioner Harriet Cross said, “By standing together through initiatives such as this, we all can take action to create a world where gender-based violence is not just reduced but eradicated entirely.”
Mohammed recognised the important steps taken by government, such as the National Strategic Action Plan to end GBV.
[caption id="attachment_1123973" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The jewellery that was auctioned off at the British High Commission and Conflict Women – 16 days of activism event on November 26. -[/caption]
She said, "We need to work together strategically and intentionally to implement key mechanisms, such as a special court for GBV, to combat the alarming rise in GBV that we are witnessing.
"Our event with the British High Commission is a first step to shine a light on how women can positively transform their lives beyond victimhood towards entrepreneurship and the arts. Together we can be our sister’s and brother’s keepers.”
One GBV survivor, in her testimony, thanked Conflict Women for its support.
"Through Conflict Women, I have experienced mentorship
