United Village Global (UVG) has embarked on a transformative journey with the launch of the Women In Sustainable Prosperity (WiSP) project, a beacon of hope and innovation in the quest for a sustainable future. WiSP will spotlight the power of female stewardship, particularly those hailing from marginalised communities, and the role they play in creating sustainability and prosperity.
A Foundation Built on Empowerment and Growth
Co-Founded by Elizabeth Nasaka and Rune Kongshaug, the formulation of WiSP was in recognition of women’s unparalleled contributions to sustainable economic development. By advancing an environment where women can thrive, UVG aims to uphold its foundational principles: “Stabilise, Grow, and Prosper”. The project spotlights women who have turned adversities into opportunities, establishing opportunities that not only secure their livelihoods but also energise local economies. With a proven track record of success, these stewards are poised to scale their ventures, creating waves of positive change that ripple through communities and transcend generations.
Unlocking the Full Potential of Women for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Sustainable prosperity is a multidimensional concept that aims for a balance between economic advancement, social equity, and the preservation of our communities. It envisions a future where the well-being of both present and future generations is safeguarded. Central to this vision is the empowerment of women, who represent half of the global population and whose potential remains largely untapped. When women are granted equal access to education and employment, they not only enhance their personal prospects but also contribute significantly to the broader economic landscape through heightened productivity and innovation.
Addressing the Gaps: Towards Gender Equality
Despite progress, the journey toward gender equality is far from complete. Women around the world still confront significant barriers that limit their educational, economic, and political participation. These include, but are not limited to, restricted access to essential services, discriminatory legislation, unequal pay, and a lack of representation in decision-making forums. Such obstacles not only impede individual women but also stifle the global movement towards sustainable prosperity.
A Multi-faceted Strategy for Empowerment
Overcoming these challenges demands a comprehensive approach. Governments, corporations, and civil society must unite to enact and enforce policies that promote gender equality at every level. Legislative reforms, investment in women-centric venture and recognition of women’s contribution in sustainability are all steps in this direction. Furthermore, empowering women through participation ensures their voices and contributions are supported paving the way for more inclusive and equitable development.
Empowering Women, Enriching Economies
The initiative to upscale sustainable prosperity by empowering women is both a moral obligation and an economic imperative. Tackling the barriers to equality and cultivating an environment where women can excel in economic, social, and political spheres is essential for building vibrant economies. The WiSP project is a clarion call to recognise and harness the transformative power of women as agents of change. It’s a call to action for all of society to work collectively towards a future where sustainable prosperity is not just a goal but a reality for everyone.
“Women’s empowerment and economic development are deeply intertwined. While development can reduce gender inequality, empowering women can further enhance development. However, a continuous policy commitment to equality may be necessary to achieve sustained progress (Duflo, 2012).”
