Marawi City — A transformative two-day workshop, “Empowering Women in Transitions: Capacity-Building and Accompaniment on Peacebuilding and Economic Empowerment,” recently brought together 31 women in Marawi City. Spearheaded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP Philippines) in partnership with the United Kingdom Government and the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, the event sought to empower women as pivotal agents of peace and community development.
The workshop, which took place in the heart of Marawi, centered on enhancing participants’ skills, strengthening community bonds, and fostering dialogue. Its overarching goal was to support women in their transition journeys while positioning them as advocates for peace within their communities.
Fostering a Culture of Peace
Catherine Joy Rumbines, UNDP Project Analyst, opened the event with a heartfelt message about the importance of fostering peace and community engagement. “Women are central to building peace and resilience in their communities,” she emphasized, underscoring their potential to drive meaningful change during transitional periods.
The workshop provided a safe space for the women, referred to as “returning friends,” to share their personal challenges and collaboratively identify solutions. Many of the participants had lived through conflict and displacement, making this an opportunity for healing and empowerment.
Insights and Interactive Sessions
The first day featured an inspiring session by Baicon Cayongcat-Nuska, Executive Director of the Raheema Peace Weavers, who facilitated group discussions focused on the struggles women face and the support they need. These exchanges were deeply emotional, with participants openly sharing their experiences and building solidarity.
The second day was equally engaging, with Provincial Information Officer Salma Jayne Tamano leading discussions on “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” and “Dialogue in Peacebuilding.” Participants explored strategies for conflict resolution, effective communication, and community-building. Interactive workshops allowed the women to exchange ideas and develop actionable solutions tailored to their unique challenges.
One of the highlights of the event was a collaborative project in which participants designed peace-promoting initiatives for their communities. This activity not only encouraged creativity but also strengthened the women’s resolve to contribute to sustainable peace efforts.
A Commitment to Peace
The workshop concluded with a powerful moment: the signing of a peace pledge. Each participant committed to acting as an advocate for peace, promising to bring the lessons they learned back to their communities.
Feedback from the participants underscored the value of the event. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share their voices and learn from others, noting that such dialogues are critical for fostering understanding and cooperation among diverse groups.
“This initiative has given us hope and strength to move forward,” one participant shared. “It reminded us that as women, we are not just survivors—we are builders of peace.”
Empowering Women, Enriching Communities
The workshop in Marawi is part of a broader effort by UNDP and its partners to empower women as catalysts for change in post-conflict settings. By equipping them with the tools for economic empowerment and peacebuilding, the program aims to create ripples of positive transformation across Lanao del Sur.
As the participants return to their communities, they carry with them not only the skills and knowledge gained but also a renewed sense of purpose. Their journey as peace advocates has just begun, promising hope and progress for generations to come.
This workshop reflects the vital role women play in bridging divides and nurturing a culture of peace. As Lanao del Sur continues its path toward recovery and development, initiatives like this serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and resilience.
