I was asked earlier this week why I was so passionate about the work of TIAW – why does this work matter when there is so much in the world that needs ‘work’.

My answer?

• ·       It is good for women.
• • Women’s financial empowerment is central to realizing women’s rights and gender equality. Financially empowered women have greater access to and control over productive resources, decent work, and broader control over their own time, lives, and bodies.
• ·       It is good for businesses and communities.
• • Organisations greatly benefit from increasing employment and leadership opportunities for women generally showing increased organizational effectiveness and growth. Communities flourish when women flourish.
• ·       It is good for the world.
• • When more women are paid to work, economies grow. Women’s financial empowerment boosts productivity, increases economic diversification and income equality in addition to other positive development outcomes

Each year TIAW recognises up to 100 women (and men)  whose work supports the financial empowerment of women in their community, and around the world. The World of Difference Awards tells  the stories of those women and men that are working to build a better future for women – which, as we know builds stronger families, communities, and nations. Go to The International Alliance for Women - wod: nominate (tiaw.org) and tell us about them so we can shine a light on their stories. Nominations close this weekend – don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate someone!

I am very sorry to again report sad news: Candace Straight, a long-term member of TIAW and of The Old Girls Club since its inception, passed away in June.  Candy spent decades working to elect women to government positions and supporting the education and advancement of women.  As one friend stated: she “absolutely believed in moving the needle for women  She truly was an inspiration and will be sorely missed.  Inspiring people and words have been very much on my mind as we move through the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic - where we have seen the world both move closer and also draw further apart under the pressures of this global challenge. In particular, I keep thinking of an African proverb: ‘If you want to go fast, travel alone; if you want to go far, travel together. We have a long way to travel and much work to do. Why not join us on the TIAW journey by becoming a member? Go to www.tiaw.org to find out more. Stay safe and be well.

Donna Meredith President TIAW Empowering Women; Changing the World