NFBPWC Gender Based Violence Blog

From Awareness to Action

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:20:00 GMT

From Awareness to Action

The NFBPWC Gender-Based Violence Committee has continued its commitment to education, awareness, and survivor-centred action in 2026. In April, the committee launched its educational series with a powerful and moving talk by survivor and advocate Elle Amani. Elle courageously shared her personal journey and offered practical insights on recognizing and responding to gender-based violence in families, workplaces, and communities.

On May 23rd, we continued this important conversation with Angie Jackson Wilson, Immediate Past President of Monroe–West Monroe BPW and Chair of the NFBPWC Nominations and Bylaws and Procedures Committees. Angie courageously shared the story of her son, Jay Wilson, who was tragically murdered in 2020 while trying to help someone in a dangerous situation. She spoke about Jay’s character, his passion for martial arts, and how he was posthumously awarded a fourth-degree black belt.

She also shared the community’s response, including tributes, a memorial fund, and an annual tournament renamed in Jay’s honour. Throughout her talk, Angie highlighted the profound and lasting impact of violence not only on families but on entire communities and the strength required to transform personal tragedy into purposeful advocacy. She also reflected on the difficult journey through the justice system and how some actions have consequences that families carry for a lifetime.

The session was attended by Barbara Bozeman, President of NFBPWC and a member of the Gender-Based Violence Committee, BPW members including Sher Singh, Barbara Davis, Gillian Crooke, and Gloria Salas, members from BPW NAC, and members of the Jackson family.

Several participants, including Lileth Nelson, BPW St. Andrew, Jamaica, shared their own experiences with trauma and offered words of support to Angie.

Reflecting on these powerful sessions, I am reminded that violence changes lives forever. But as Angie has shown us, even in the deepest pain it is possible to choose purpose, to choose advocacy, and to choose healing not just for ourselves, but for others.

As the Gender-Based Violence Committee, we remain committed to creating spaces where stories like Angie and Jay’s are heard, and where we continue working towards prevention, support, and justice.

We are making steady progress on our flagship project, the “Inform Guidebook on Gender-Based Violence”. This practical resource will provide members and allies with clear information, safety tools, and actionable steps. Insights shared during our educational sessions will directly shape its content.

Our next committee meeting is June 3rd. We warmly invite all members to participate in upcoming events and to consider volunteering with the committee. Your voice and support are vital as we continue moving from awareness to meaningful, survivor-centred action.

Sujata Tiwari
Chair Gender-Based Violence
gbv@nfbpwc.org

Gender-Based Violence

Kemi Oyebade — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:15:00 GMT

SDGs in Action: One Woman’s Journey from Personal Resilience to Global Impact

Recently, at the CFBPW Annual Conference, the powerful message rang clear: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Action begins with individual efforts. No grand organisation or government policy can create real change unless ordinary individuals decide to stand up, speak out, and act.

I was deeply honoured to receive the Certificate of Recognition as “Changemaker for Resilience, Women’s Empowerment, and Social Transformation (India)” from the Icons of Change Global Secretariat on December 10, 2025 – Human Rights Day.

This award recognises my contributions toward advancing United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality. For me, it is not just an honor, it is a powerful reminder that one person’s lived experience and determination can ripple outward and touch many lives.

My own journey began in the most difficult circumstances. Losing my father at the age of 10, facing gender bias, workplace harassment, stalking, and my daughter’s traumatic experience taught me firsthand the devastating impact of gender-based violence. These challenges could have broken me. Instead, they became the fuel for my life’s work.

Through my book Against All Odds: No Retakes, No Manuals, Real Life Lessons, my podcast Hangout with Sujata, along with my roles as Regional Vice President – Asia Pacific for the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) and their representative to the UN, I work every day to turn pain into purpose.

As Chair of the NFBPWC Gender-Based Violence Committee, I lead efforts to educate members, raise awareness, and build practical support systems for survivors.

I also serve as a Voluntary Case Officer with the Singapore Prison Service and as a befriender with the Rain Tree Project under Rotary, supporting formerly incarcerated individuals and their families.

Every workshop I conduct, every story I share, and every survivor I mentor is a small but meaningful step toward SDG 5. When one woman finds her voice, when one community begins to challenge silence around violence, when one leader chooses to elevate others instead of gatekeeping, that is SDG 5 in action.

The Icons of Change award is not the end of a journey; it is confirmation that individual efforts matter. Each of us, in our own sphere, whether in our clubs, workplaces, families, or communities has the power to create change.

As BPW members, we are uniquely positioned to turn awareness into action. Let us continue to support one another, speak up for those who cannot, and build a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence.

Because real change does not start with grand declarations.

It starts with one woman deciding to rise and then helping others do the same.

Sujata Tiwari
Chair Gender-Based Violence
gbv@nfbpwc.org

Gender Based Violence Committee Report

Kemi Oyebade — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:20:00 GMT

Gender Based Violence Committee Report
By: Veera Mahajan, NFBPWC Gender Based Violence Committee Chair

Unraveling Gender-Based Violence: Confronting Our Inner Demons

Gender-based violence, a pervasive and insidious social issue, continues to cast a dark shadow over societies worldwide. Its roots run deep, intertwining with cultural norms, power dynamics, and personal attitudes. In our quest to eradicate this menace, it’s essential to recognize that the problem often lies not only in external forces, but within ourselves – in our discomfort, fear, and pride.

At the heart of the matter lies discomfort. We are often uneasy discussing gender-based violence, as it forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the society we live in. This discomfort can lead to avoidance, denial, and harmful behaviors. It’s crucial to acknowledge this discomfort and actively engage in open dialogues, creating safe spaces to challenge and transform the narratives that sustain gender-based violence.

Fear, too, plays a significant role. Fear of backlash, ridicule, or retaliation can prevent individuals from speaking out or intervening. Fear of losing societal acceptance or personal relationships can keep victims trapped in silence. By acknowledging these fears, we can work towards fostering a culture of empathy and support, empowering survivors to come forward and allies to stand up against violence.

Pride can also be a stumbling block. Our ego sometimes blinds us to our own biases, making it challenging to recognize and address harmful behaviors. A culture that normalizes toxic masculinity or reinforces outdated gender roles feeds into this pride. Unlearning these ingrained beliefs is essential for dismantling the foundations of gender-based violence.

To combat gender-based violence effectively, we must embark on an introspective journey, examine our discomfort, fear, and pride. By acknowledging these internal barriers, we can actively work towards creating a more equitable and just society.

Only through collective self-awareness and action, can we hope to bring an end to the cycle of violence and abuse, fostering a world where every individual can thrive without the shadow of gender-based oppression.

Combating Period Poverty: Ensuring Menstrual Hygiene for All

Period poverty, a grave concern that affects women and girls in impoverished societies, sheds light on the need for comprehensive education about menstrual biology and hygiene, as well as the provision of essential period products. Menstrual cycles are a fundamental aspect of female biology, serving as a natural process indicating reproductive health. However, societal taboos and misinformation have led to a lack of understanding and proper management of menstrual hygiene.

Understanding menstrual biology is crucial for both genders. Menstruation is a sign of reproductive health and is essential for fertility. Proper menstrual hygiene is not only vital for health but also for dignity and confidence. Lack of access to menstrual products can lead to unhygienic practices, affecting physical health and psychological well-being. Girls may miss school, limiting their education and future opportunities.

Addressing period poverty requires a multifaceted approach. Comprehensive sexual education that covers menstrual health, anatomy, and hygiene must be integrated into school curricula. Open conversations about menstruation help dispel myths and reduce stigma. Moreover, access to affordable and sustainable period products is pivotal. Governments have a role to play in ensuring that basic menstrual products are available to all women and girls, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

Government-mandated provision of period products could help break the cycle of period poverty. By considering menstrual hygiene as a basic human right, governments can empower marginalized communities. Collaborating with NGOs and private sector partners can make these products accessible in schools, healthcare facilities, and public spaces.

In conclusion, menstrual hygiene education and the provision of period products are essential components in the fight against period poverty. By promoting awareness about menstrual biology, dismantling stigmas, and ensuring affordable access to period products, societies can uplift women and girls, contributing to their overall well-being, educational attainment, and empowerment. Government initiatives that mandate the availability of menstrual products are crucial steps towards a more equitable and inclusive future.

NFBPWC Gender Based Violence Blog

From Awareness to Action

From Awareness to Action

Sujata TiwariChair Gender-Based Violencegbv@nfbpwc.org

Gender-Based Violence

SDGs in Action: One Woman’s Journey from Personal Resilience to Global Impact

Sujata TiwariChair Gender-Based Violencegbv@nfbpwc.org

Gender Based Violence Committee Report

Gender Based Violence Committee ReportBy: Veera Mahajan, NFBPWC Gender Based Violence Committee Chair

Unraveling Gender-Based Violence: Confronting Our Inner Demons

Combating Period Poverty: Ensuring Menstrual Hygiene for All

Sujata Tiwari
Chair Gender-Based Violence
gbv@nfbpwc.org

Sujata Tiwari
Chair Gender-Based Violence
gbv@nfbpwc.org

Gender Based Violence Committee Report
By: Veera Mahajan, NFBPWC Gender Based Violence Committee Chair