"Every journey must start with self-confidence, awareness of one's strength and potential in order to overcome the limits imposed by society and fight against gender-based violence." - Benedicta Aloakinnou, FJAD President
FOCUS ON THE "BREAKING INEQUALITIES" PROJECT
The Foundation's flagship social project enables local young women to collectively identify the levers of their empowerment and see how to improve their living conditions as a priority. By organizing charity galas, FJAD raises funds to meet identified needs. The third edition supported 25 young women in their professional reintegration by making and selling biodegradable bags. This year, the fourth edition aims to support 50 girls and young women with disabilities or single mothers with a disabled child. Through financial management training, enrolment in certification courses at partner centers and the provision of funds, the Amazones are helping these women to achieve economic independence.Equipop's sorore support Equipop supports the Foundation in implementing new organizational development practices to improve the association's efficiency. FJAD has been able to put in place an Organizational Development (OD) manual which has strengthened their credibility with donors. In addition, the association benefited from Equipop's support in securing funding and developing the School of the Engaged against SGBV project. This initiative is revolutionary in Benin in the fight against gender-based and sexual violence. Equipping professionals committed to combating SGBV At institutional level, the FJAD works with activists, police officers, lawyers and prosecutors to raise awareness of the issues surrounding SGBV and to strengthen their ability to respond to victims' needs. The Foundation facilitates exchanges and partnerships between these actors and activists in the field, creating a solid, committed network and enabling an effective, coordinated response. In the medium term, the Amazons intend to lobby the Ministry of Justice to include specific modules on gender stereotypes in law courses. Towards more power The foundation also applies the principles of empowerment to itself. It aims to strengthen its financial independence, and consolidate and develop its organization by setting up departmental coordinations. In order to better carry the voice of women and unite feminists, the Amazones aim to create a strong sorore feminist movement in northern Benin. Networking and building alliances to accentuate the impact and reach of feminist movements is their objective.
