Chuuk Women in Climate Change Learning Exchange
The Women in Climate Change Learning Exchange Workshop took place in Chuuk from November 8th to 10th, as part of the Pacific American Fund Project in partnership with the Micronesia Conservation Trust (MCT), the Nature Conservancy (TNC), Rare and in Chuuk, the Chuuk Women’s Council (CWC). The primary objective of the project is to empower women from Chuuk to actively participate in climate change mitigation, adaptation, and advocacy within their communities.
The learning exchange focused on the important theme of “Building community and ecosystem resilience through gender-focused, nature-based solutions.” The workshop brought together ten women's associations from Chuuk State. Two of these associations were from the Northern Namoneas Region, seven came from the Southern Namoneas Region, and one association was from the Faichuk Region. These dedicated women's associations participated in the learning exchange not only to gain knowledge from the expert presenters but also to share their own valuable insights and experiences.
The learning exchange was thoroughly enjoyed by a vast majority of the participants, who are eagerly looking forward to more projects like this in the future. One participant stated, “Thank you because we have gained so much from what you all have brought to us.” While another shared “I, along with our association are very happy and eager to join more project activities like this workshop.”
The carefully curated workshop agenda featured presentations from esteemed agencies and departments from the Chuuk State Government with expertise on climate change. These sessions explored actionable strategies women can undertake to combat climate change challenges using nature-based solutions. The diverse range of presenters deepened the participants’ understanding of the implications of climate change while also inspiring them to become influential agents of positive change. Each presenter brought a unique perspective, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of climate change challenges while presenting promising opportunities for women’s leadership. Topics covered included cutting-edge climate science, impact assessment on vulnerable communities, sustainable agricultural practices, and renewable energy initiatives.
The learning exchange fostered an environment that encouraged collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants. Small group discussions and interactive activities sparked imaginative thinking and empowered women to brainstorm ideas for addressing climate change within their communities. It effectively enhanced participants’ comprehension of climate change impacts as well as instilling a sense of urgency and responsibility. The women groups now grasp the interconnectedness between personal actions, community resilience, and global climate goals. They also gained invaluable knowledge and skills necessary to spearhead climate change initiatives in their respective communities. They emerged with elevated self-confidence, robust leadership capabilities, and unwavering belief in their work to drive effective change.
The integration of women-led climate initiatives along with their proposed action plans sometimes encounter obstacles due to limited funding, resources, prevailing gender stereotypes, and traditional roles within society. Continued support from governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations will be vital to the success and expansion of the efforts initiated during the workshop.
This learning exchange has undeniably proven itself to be a powerful milestone towards empowering women as leaders in combating climate change at a local level. This transformative workshop significantly enhanced the women’s knowledge base, equipped them with essential skills, while also fostering unshakeable confidence needed for driving meaningful change. Moving forward, sustained collaboration amongst partnering agencies, local authorities, stakeholders is crucial towards ensuring long-term success while amplifying the impact of the initiatives conceived during this inspirational gathering.
