Written by Bernard Otu Assim-ita
Why are women and young people still excluded from key leadership roles in health and rights advocacy? Despite making up a significant portion of the global population affected by health challenges, women and youth remain underrepresented in decision-making spaces. They are often invited to the table but not given the power to shape policies, influence funding decisions, or lead transformative change.
From the fight for sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) to tackling gender-based violence, menstrual dignity, and access to quality healthcare, young leaders and women have been at the forefront of advocacy efforts. Yet, barriers such as gender biases, lack of mentorship, financial exclusion, and tokenistic youth engagement continue to hold them back.
In the latest episode of Rights & Realities, titled “Breaking Barriers: Women & Youth Leadership in Health & Rights” we explore how young leaders and women can move from the sidelines to the center of decision-making in health and rights advocacy.
Our panelists will share personal experiences, policy insights, and solutions to build a future where women and young people are not just included but leading as they discuss:
✔️ What prevents young women and youth from leading in health and rights?
✔️ How can we move from youth tokenism to real leadership?
✔️ What role do policies, funding, and mentorship play in empowering young leaders?
✔️ What can be done to ensure sustained leadership opportunities for women and youth?
At Education as a Vaccine (EVA), we have seen firsthand the impact of youth-led and women-driven leadership in health and rights advocacy. Through our work on:
Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights & Justice (SRHRJ) – Ensuring young people, especially women, have access to accurate information and healthcare.
Gender Justice & Sexual Harassment Advocacy – Fighting for policies that protect young women in education and workplaces.
Climate Justice & Gender-Responsive Financing – Advocating for policies that empower women and youth in economic and environmental decision-making.
Community Engagement & Youth Leadership – Creating spaces where young people don’t just participate but lead advocacy efforts.
We understand that barriers to leadership are deeply rooted in systemic inequalities, cultural norms, and lack of institutional support. This episode is about tackling those challenges head-on and offering real, actionable solutions.
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UWwMJTgnvZE
Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel!
