Why Women?
Gender inequity is recognized as one of the reasons keeping us from a better, more sustainable world. Despite growing evidence of the positive outcomes of girls’ and women’s empowerment, women and girls continue to face gender-based discrimination, marginalization, and violence, across the world, including unequal access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, which stifles their potential for leadership and participation. No country or region can achieve sustainable economic development if half of its population — women — are oppressed and/or disempowered!
The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #5 is to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls. By 2030 we want to see a Planet 50/50. We surely need relevant laws, policies, and services, however bottom-up, grassroots level is also critical to achieving this goal.
Why Travel?
We see meaningful travel as an alternative way to steer these social and gender issues and empower women in a practical and FUN way. Whatever economic situation might be, people intrinsically strive for joy, happiness, companionship and leisure.
Travel is an amazing way to experience those, as well as acquire new skills and competencies necessary for life. Travel cannot solve society’s problems or women’s issues on its own, but can be a very empowering element in women’s lives. It can contribute to development of their leadership and independence, building confidence and simply be a source of joy from exploring the world and making meaningful friendships.
By meaningful travel we understand that the girls from the start put some meaning, or mission, in their travels. It can be creating space for girls and women, capacity building, social engagement, community development and other positive changes in women’s lives.
Travel seems to be less accessible to women as opposed to men (safety component and the traditional role of women); and to be less accessible to those living in poorer countries and more traditional cultures. We want to challenge this reality and inspire girls around the world not to be stopped, and search for ways to make travel accessible, safe and affordable.
