Celebrating the Launch of the OZA Regional Feminist Fellowship Programme
Bertha Retreat, Western Cape – The picturesque Bertha Retreat Centre set the scene for the induction launch and first workshop of the OZA Regional Feminist Fellowship Programme from April 15–21, 2024.
This Oxfam initiative aims to integrate gender equality into development work focused on climate change, labour rights, regenerative agriculture, waste management, and climate justice.
A memorable start
We designed the induction and orientation sessions to welcome and prepare 20 selected fellows from diverse backgrounds. These fellows will embark on an 18-month journey to become leaders in their fields, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive meaningful change.
A collaborative effort
The workshop featured an array of expert presenters from partner organizations such as Climate Action Network South Africa (CANSA), Ubuntu Rural Women and Youth Development, Extinction Rebellion South Africa, and Oribi. These partners delivered insightful lectures on critical topics, including Climate Justice, the Food Systems and Value Chain, Regenerative Agriculture, Labour Rights, Innovation and Movement Building. The collaboration underscored the importance of community and partnerships in achieving the fellowship’s goals.
Fellows engaging in a group discussion at the Regional Feminist Fellowship Workshop, Cape Town, April 2024.
Achievements and highlights
The launch event was a resounding success, not only in terms of participation but also in the depth of knowledge shared. Highlights included:
- Induction of 20 fellows into the feminist fellowship.
- Hosting a launch event with external partners, including feminist scholars from local universities and the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).
- Meeting the learning objectives by focusing on small-scale farming, addressing the food value system, climate justice, regenerative agriculture, and harmful pesticides.
The Regional Feminist Fellowship Programme is OZA’s flagship initiative. Check this page on a regular basis for more information on the OZA Regional Feminist Fellowship Programme, as well as to stay updated on upcoming events and modules.
Summary of topics covered
- Feminist food systems and social entrepreneurship
- Regenerative Agriculture as a Climate and Justice Strategy in the Just Transition of Food Systems
- Climate justice and feminism
- Movement building and strengthening
- aGILE approach to solving deep-rooted problems
- The impact of pesticides in agriculture and labour rights
- Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)
Blogs
- Ecofeminism and Sustainable Agriculture: Insights from the OZA Feminist Fellowship
- Exploring Sustainable Agriculture that is Rooted in Feminism
Oxfam South Africa Fellows, Cape Town, April 2024.
