RECOFTC launches second cohort of Weaving Leadership for Gender Equality (WAVES)

RECOFTC’s regional initiatives for gender equality and social inclusion promote gender equality in the governance, management and use of forest landscapes across the Asia-Pacific region. We launched the second cohort of our Weaving Leadership for Gender Equality (WAVES) programme on 11 September 2024 at the RECOFTC main office in Bangkok, Thailand. The event was split into two parts: a two-hour opening session and a three-day, in-person training programme. 

A 15-month tailored programme that will engage young women and men in addressing gendered inequalities in the forestry landscape, the second WAVES aims to amplify the leadership of 21 early-career professionals from nine countries in the Asia-Pacific region. At the opening session, we highlighted and celebrated the achievements of the first WAVES cohort and demonstrated the tangible outcomes and societal benefits of the programme.

The event provided a platform for reflection, networking and inspiration for participants and donors, encouraging continued financial support for WAVES. Three participants from the first cohort – Deepa Oli (Nepal), Ibu Ida Kusdamayanti (Indonesia) and Nguyen Khac Lam (Viet Nam) shared their motivational journeys as gender leaders. 

David Ganz, RECOFT’s executive director, welcomed the participants to the inaugural. The opening remarks were delivered by My Olivares, senior advisor for gender equality, democracy and human rights, Government of Sweden. Olivares highlighted the importance of supporting gender equality initiatives in the context of climate change through WAVES. 

The opening was attended by 54 participants, including dignitaries from donor organizations, partners and projects. The three-day training programme introduced participants to the interconnected topics of climate change and gender and social inclusion, focusing on advocacy for climate and environmental justice. It also fostered cross-learning and networking among the participants.

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To learn more about WAVES, visit the initiative’s dedicated webpage.

RECOFTC's work through the WAVES initiative is made possible with the continuous support of the Government of Sweden.

RECOFTC’s work is made possible with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and the Government of Sweden.