World YWCA International Training Institute to focus on development of new YWCA women leaders
As the YWCA movement continues to grow, newly affiliated YWCA member associations have gathered in Geneva, Switzerland for an International Training Institute (ITI) on capacity building and leadership training facilitated by World YWCA from November 24- 28, 2008. The YWCAs of Honduras, Indonesia, Burundi, Sudan, Mozambique and Congo Brazzaville were affiliated at the World YWCA Council 2007 in Nairobi, Kenya and the ITI provides an opportunity to develop the organisational capacity of the newly affiliated member associations.
"One year down the line, we wanted to ensure our new YWCAs are OK. Affiliating is one step. Surviving is another," said World YWCA General Secretary Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda.
The weeklong training features a range of skills building workshops on advocacy, management, fundraising, programmes, communications and monitoring and evaluation. "The ITI’s of World YWCA have been around a long time," said World YWCA Deputy General Secretary Natalie Fisher-Spalton on the opening morning. "For decades, the World YWCA has been bringing together YWCA women leaders for training to learn together and share our skills together".
Participants expressed their excitement at taking part in the ITI and shared their expectations for the training. "I hope to build on my leaderships skills," said one participant while others listed fundraising skills and advocacy tips on how to combat HIV and violence against women as a priority. Along with skills building sessions, participants will also have an opportunity to visit international organisations such as the United Nations, Ecumenical Centre and other NGOs in Geneva.
"At the heart of the YWCA is building the leadership and development skills of women, said Fisher-Spalton. "We have a busy week ahead but we look forward to getting to know our newly affiliated member associations and furthering the work of the World YWCA to improve the lives of women and their families around the world."
