Women leading change: our Climate Sisters journey with WEN

Over the past ten weeks, a group of inspiring women from the Afrocats community have been taking part in Climate Sisters, a feminist climate leadership programme delivered in partnership with Wen (Women's Environmental Network).

Led by project co-ordinator Ria Phatarphekar-Karmarkar, this exciting programme created a welcoming space for women to come together, explore climate justice and discover how environmental issues connect with the realities of everyday life.

And through open conversations, creative activities and shared learning, participants have explored topics including leadership, communication, gender equality and racial justice, while building confidence in their own voices and expressing their lived experiences.

At Afrocats, we believe the people most affected by inequality should have opportunities to shape the conversations that matter to them, and Climate Sisters has provided exactly that with a supportive environment, where women have encouraged one another, challenged ideas and grown in confidence together.

Check out our videoclip below – and watch to the end for a very special performance!

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/549e43_e0599eec98aa4da788af5e0caed0e41e/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Sharing ideas and building confidence

As the Phase One of programme drew to a close, participants prepared and delivered presentations on environmental issues they felt passionate about. From waste colonialism and pollution to the importance of protecting green spaces, each presentation reflected the unique perspectives, experiences and knowledge within the group.

Standing up to share ideas with others can feel daunting, but every participant embraced the opportunity with courage and determination. Watching confidence grow week by week has been one of the most rewarding parts of the programme, with women supporting one another, asking thoughtful questions, giving constructive feedback, and celebrating each other's achievements.

But the journey doesn't end here. Participants will now move into the Creative Expression phase of Climate Sisters, where they'll transform their learning into creative projects that share their hopes, concerns and visions for a more just and sustainable future.

And of course, there were participation certificates – take a look at all the proud, smiling faces below.

We're incredibly proud of everything the women have achieved so far and look forward to celebrating their work at the Climate Sisters Manchester Showcase later this year.

Together, they're demonstrating that climate leadership begins with community, conversation and the confidence to make your voice heard. 

Find out more about Climate Sisters Manchester by visiting the WEN website.