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She Empowers!
Collaboratively creating an inclusive water and sanitation sector.

Engagement: What do we do and why?

#SheEmpowers!
The Women in Water & Sanitation Network (WWSN) addresses gender imbalances in the water and sanitation sector. Traditionally, this sector has been male-dominated, but with efforts like advocacy, mentorship and networking, WWSN can push positive change.

Let's break down some key points of our activites on advocacting for gender equality and mentorship in the sector:
  1. Gender Balance for Success: Gender-balanced workplaces have been shown to enhance creativity, innovation, and overall business success. By promoting gender diversity, organizations can tap into a broader range of perspectives and talents, which can be especially valuable in sectors like water and sanitation, where diverse viewpoints are crucial for effective problem-solving.
  2. Networking and Boundaries: It's important to acknowledge that professional networking often happens within the boundaries of a company or organization. This can sometimes limit opportunities for women to connect with mentors or peers who can help them advance in their careers.
  3. The Role of WWSN: Organizations like the Women in Water & Sanitation Network are vital for providing a platform for women in the sector to connect, share experiences, and support each other. Such networks can help break down the isolation that some female professionals may feel in male-dominated environments.
  4. Mentorship Programs: Mentorship programs tailored to female professionals are indeed one of the top strategies for closing the gender gap in business leadership. Here's why they are important:
  5. Skill Development: Mentors can help mentees develop essential skills, offer guidance on career advancement, and provide insights into navigating the specific challenges women may face in the sector.
  6. Networking: Mentors can introduce mentees to valuable contacts and opportunities, helping them expand their professional networks beyond the confines of their current workplace. And not even being in a mentor-menteeship relation, equal-minded peers are a valuable source of inspiration for career advancement for all of us. Female networking makes us stronger, #SheEmpowers!
  7. Confidence Building: Female professionals may sometimes lack confidence in male-dominated fields. Mentors can provide the encouragement and support needed to overcome imposter syndrome or self-doubt.
  8. Visibility: Mentorship can increase the visibility of women in the sector, showcasing their skills and potential for leadership roles. 
  9. Diversity Benefits: Having more women in leadership positions can help organizations better reflect the diversity of their stakeholders and communities. This can lead to more inclusive and effective decision-making processes.

LATEST EVENT

WWSN online workshop
Join us for an engaging session from our online series: "Pitch Yourself in 2 Minutes!"
In this interactive online workshop, we’ll explore the art of crafting a powerful, concise introduction for different professional settings—using a "speed dating" approach to networking. It’s a valuable tool to break old habits, boost confidence, and connect with like-minded women in the sector.

This is your chance to practice in a safe space, gain inspiration, and expand your network—all while having fun! Don't miss the opportunity to refine your pitch and meet amazing colleagues.

📅 Date: 12 February 2025
🕑 14:00h CET (2pm)
💻 Format: Online
🙂 WWSN members + friends, women only
✏️ Register here

Let’s lift each other up! Let's meet and get inspired! See you there! 🙌

READ MORE...
We the Women of WWSN

We the Women of WWSN

JOIN US

Would you like to shape the agenda for women's empowerment in the water and sanitation sector—nationally, regionally, and globally? Do you want to help steer the future of our network?

Are you eager to connect with women worldwide and make a meaningful impact on SDGs 5, 6, 8, 17, and beyond?

Join the Women in Water & Sanitation Network (WWSN) as a member—and, if you’re interested, take an active role in one of our working groups!

Join us

 
Join Us!
Speaking up for women working in the WASH sector with our WWSN working groups

What do we wo and why? Read more ...

• Mentorship:
Setting up our mentor-mentee-ship programme.
• Communications & Advocacy: 
Branding, messaging, and development of our communication material.
• Membership:
Design and implement the strategy of enrolling and engaging members.
• Events:
Develop and design events for our membership engagement.
Guide WWSN´ s strategy on outreach events  - participation of the network in international conferences, congresses, fora and events.
• Fundraising:
Raising the funds we need to do this great work. 

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CONTACT US

Find us on LinkedIN!