sdg 5 gender equality

5.1 End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
5.2 Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls
5.5 Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership

This project was designed by the Madre Oliva Association to assist 15 girls between the ages of 11 and 14 who are struggling. Some have been the victims of sexual violence. Others face troubles at home. These girls are often burdened with caring for younger siblings and the family home, making it hard for them to continue their studies or follow other paths.

Two girls stand in front of a colourful mural.
Grecia (R) and Nayelí (L) participate with 11 other girls in the program.

“It’s a support for us to have a safe space to be free to think and imagine other possibilities, and forget for a while some of the bad things that happen at home,” says Nayelí, one of the program participants. “We learn how to cooperate and show solidarity with each other.” Nayelí says one day she wants to become a lawyer so she can “defend people from injustice.”

The program provides the girls with counselling as well as a space where they feel comfortable, safe and valued. The girls participate in workshops that build self-esteem, help them learn to manage relationships and help them understand their rights. They also set and achieve goals through small hands-on projects such as making jewelry they can sell.