About Connecther
ConnectHER: Empowering Women and Girls through Storytelling and Projects
ConnectHER is a non-profit organization that aims to inspire global change by empowering women and girls through storytelling and projects. The organization envisions a world where women and girls are seen, heard, and encouraged to reach their full potential. ConnectHER believes that by sharing the stories of women from all walks of life, they can inspire others to take action towards gender equality.
The organization was founded in 2011 by Lila Igram, who saw the need for a platform that would amplify the voices of women around the world. ConnectHER's mission is to support innovative projects led by girls and women that address critical issues such as education, health, economic empowerment, human rights, environmental sustainability, peacebuilding, and more.
ConnectHER's approach is unique in that it uses storytelling as a tool for social change. The organization believes that stories have the power to connect people across cultures and inspire action towards positive change. Through its film festivals, grants program, mentorship opportunities, advocacy campaigns, educational resources, and partnerships with like-minded organizations worldwide; ConnectHER has been able to make significant strides towards achieving its vision.
One of ConnectHER's flagship programs is its Girls Impact the World Film Festival (GITWFF), which invites young filmmakers from around the world to submit short films about issues affecting women globally. The festival provides an opportunity for these young filmmakers to showcase their work on an international stage while also raising awareness about important issues such as child marriage or access to education.
Another key program offered by ConnectHER is its grant-making initiative which supports innovative projects led by girls or young women aged 10-30 years old who are working on solutions related to gender equality or social justice issues in their communities. These grants provide funding for project implementation as well as mentorship support from experts in various fields.
ConnectHER also offers educational resources such as lesson plans designed to help teachers incorporate gender equality and social justice issues into their curriculum. These resources are available for free on the organization's website, making them accessible to educators worldwide.
In addition to its programs, ConnectHER also engages in advocacy campaigns aimed at raising awareness about critical issues affecting women and girls globally. The organization has partnered with other like-minded organizations such as UN Women, Plan International, and Girls Not Brides to amplify its message and reach a wider audience.
ConnectHER's impact has been significant since its inception. The organization has supported over 200 projects led by girls or young women from more than 50 countries worldwide. These projects have addressed a wide range of issues such as menstrual hygiene management, access to education for girls in rural areas, ending child marriage, promoting peacebuilding initiatives in conflict-affected regions; among others.
ConnectHER's work has been recognized by various organizations worldwide. In 2019 alone, the organization received awards from the United Nations Association of Greater Boston (UNAGB) and the National Women's History Museum (NWHM) for its outstanding contributions towards gender equality.
In conclusion, ConnectHER is an inspiring non-profit organization that is making significant strides towards achieving gender equality through storytelling and innovative projects led by girls and young women around the world. Its unique approach using storytelling as a tool for social change sets it apart from other organizations working towards similar goals. With continued support from donors and partners worldwide; ConnectHER will undoubtedly continue to inspire global change for years to come!