W4C Promotes Rural Women’s Eco-businesses & Bird Conservation at the IUCN South America Forum
From October 14th to 18th, 2024, Women for Conservation (W4C) played a pivotal role in the 4th IUCN South America Forum held in Santa Marta, Colombia. This milestone event, hosted at INVEMAR—Colombia’s leading marine and coastal research institute—brought together conservation leaders from across the continent to address urgent environmental challenges. For Women for Conservation, it was an opportunity to spotlight the voices and contributions of rural women in biodiversity conservation.
W4C’s founder, Sara Ines Lara, not only supported the logistical organization of this landmark forum but also attended alongside co-founder Isabella Cortes Lara. Both leaders passionately advocated for the inclusion of rural women in international conservation dialogues, emphasizing the critical role these women play in protecting some of South America’s most biodiverse landscapes.
Showcasing Programs that Inspire and Empower
The forum provided a platform to highlight W4C’s impactful initiatives, including their conservation education and sustainable livelihood programs. Central to these efforts is the Reinita Chiva educational bus, which was featured at the conference. This colorful mobile classroom travels to rural towns, reaching over 11,000 children annually with environmental education. Through interactive lessons, the bus inspires communities to conserve critical habitats for migratory birds, such as the endangered Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea). By fostering a deeper connection to nature, the Reinita Chiva empowers children and their families to become active stewards of biodiversity.
The forum also celebrated rural women entrepreneurs supported by W4C’s sustainable livelihoods program. We supported eight representatives of the WOMEN SINESAMA group by facilitating transportation and logistics to the two day event for rural women that live in the Sierra Nevada mountains to sell their sustainable products, including typical sweets, Artesanias, and organic bird friendly coffee. These women showcased and sold their eco-conscious goods at the event’s fair, promoting their small businesses while earning additional income to support their families and children’s education. Their sustainable enterprises—rooted in Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)—not only provide economic resilience but also help safeguard Colombia’s critical ecosystems for endangered species.
Championing Women in Conservation
W4C’s participation in the IUCN South America Forum underscored the essential connection between empowering rural women and achieving effective conservation outcomes. By amplifying women’s voices and showcasing their initiatives, Women for Conservation highlighted how conservation and community well-being go hand in hand.
As the forum concluded, it was clear that W4C’s programs are not only transforming the lives of rural women but also protecting some of South America’s most vital ecosystems. With initiatives like the Reinita Chiva bus and sustainable livelihood projects, Women for Conservation continues to lead the way in ensuring rural communities and wildlife thrive together.
Thank You for Your Support
This incredible impact would not be possible without the support of our donors and partners. Together, we can continue to empower rural women, educate future generations, and conserve biodiversity in Colombia and beyond. Thank you for standing with us as we build a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
