ARUSHA: The International Indigenous Women Forum (FIMI) is hosting the 2024 Indigenous Women Leadership Award ceremony today, August 13, 2024, in Arusha, Tanzania, it has been announced.
A statement issued on Tuesday by Press Public Relations Consultant, Saba Zahara HoneyBush stated that the event will celebrate the remarkable leadership and innovative initiatives of Indigenous women from across the globe, recognizing their contributions to advancing the rights and empowerment of Indigenous communities.
This year’s awards will focus on “Economic Entrepreneurship,” highlighting Indigenous women-led initiatives that have created substantial economic opportunities and fostered community development.
Out of 147 applications received from various regions, four standout organizations have been selected for their extraordinary contributions.
The award ceremony will bring together Indigenous women leaders, activists, and allies from around the world to honor these achievements and share insights on advancing Indigenous women’s rights and economic empowerment.
“These awardees represent the Wayuu People of La Guajira in Colombia, the Batwa People in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Bunong People in Cambodia, and the Goroka Indigenous Peoples in Papua New Guinea,” reads the statement.
According to the statement ,the event will feature keynote addresses, cultural performances, and opportunities for networking and collaboration among global leaders.
Since its inception in 2013, the FIMI Indigenous Women Leadership Award has honored exceptional women and organizations that have made significant strides in promoting Indigenous rights and driving positive change in their regions.
“The award is a testament to the leadership, dedication, and groundbreaking approaches of these trailblazers who are shaping the future of their communities”.
FIMI, a global organization that brings together Indigenous women activists and human rights leaders from Asia, Africa, the Americas, the Pacific, and the Arctic, was established following the participation of Indigenous women in the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995.
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The Beijing Declaration of Indigenous Women, approved at this conference, laid the foundation for the demands for their rights as both Indigenous people and women.
Institutional Communication Officer at FIMI, Isabel Flota, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming ceremony, stating, “We are excited to celebrate the exceptional work of these Indigenous women and organizations who are making a profound impact on their communities.
Their leadership and innovation are inspiring and crucial to advancing the rights and economic opportunities of Indigenous women worldwide.”
The 2024 Indigenous Women Leadership Award ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, shining a spotlight on the vital role.