We delved deeper into some of the most pressing issues women and young girls are facing right now such as climate change, gender-based violence, the refugee crisis, period poverty, female genital mutilation and poor access to education.
As a community, we felt it was important to have these difficult conversations. They are complex issues and they can often feel impossible to solve, which makes it difficult for people to discuss them. We are surrounded by so many tragic headlines and what can often feel like a constant stream of bad news. But, what gives us so much hope in the face of these threats, is knowing how many incredible individuals and organisations are working to fight for change.
We want to share their stories and share more about the work they are doing to help them raise funding, increase their capacity and reach in terms of the work they are doing, help them gain recognition and connect them with people who would like to support their work. We believe filmmaking can have an impact and through the films we share, we want to amplify their work and voices, lift them up and introduce young girls around the world to these incredible role models.
Our Matriarchs community has grown in a lot of ways this year. We met new Matriarchs, whose stories we are so excited to share with you. We also sadly lost one of our beloved Matriarchs, Professor Anne Rasa.
Professor Rasa was a pioneer in her field. She spent her life researching mongoose species and when she found herself ready to retire, she instead purchased a piece of land in the Kalahari and spent the rest of her life rescuing meerkats from the illegal wildlife trade. Professor Rasa’s dedication, passion and kindness left a lasting impact on our team and those around her. Women like Anne Rasa have led the way for other women and young girls in the conservation space.
She has opened doors that young girls will never know were closed. The impact Professor Rasa has had and the legacy she leaves behind will not easily be forgotten.
We learnt many invaluable lessons this year. None more so important than the power of empowering women and young girls. Empowering girls is one of the biggest catalysts for change, both socially and environmentally.
We know that women and girls are more disproportionately impacted by the effects of climate change, environmental degradation and poverty than any other demographic. Yet, their voices are largely excluded from this narrative.
We also know that women and young girls play a critical role in the fight to save our planet and in creating a more equal and just world for all.
Throughout the challenges that this year brought with it, one thing that really stood out to us was that globally, in so many communities, women were and continue to be on the frontlines of the fight for change.
Sharing the stories of women, amplifying their voices and advocating for the rights of women and girls has never been more important.
Women and young girls around the world are powerful agents of change and their stories are important. Their strength, value, and the impact of sharing their story should never be underestimated.
Thank you to everyone who has joined our herd, supported our Matriarchs and followed along this year; we would not be where we are today without your support.
We know that times are tough and there are so many people and organisations who desperately need help right now.
There are a lot of ways to give back from donating funds or resources, fundraising, or volunteering, but if you do not find yourself in a position to be able to do this, sharing the stories of our Matriarchs and creating awareness around the work that they are doing also plays a vital role in creating change.
We are excited about everything the new year and all that it holds and look forward to continuing to share the stories of inspiring women and young girls who are doing remarkable work in both the humanitarian and environmental space.
Wishing you all a safe, restful and joyous end of year break.
If you would like to support one of our Matriarchs or learn more about how you can make a difference, get in touch with us.
