On February 23-27, 2013, USAID and the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDF) co-sponsored “Gender Academy” training in Oguz, which brought together 30 young civil society activists, comprised of 10 men and 20 women. The aim of the training was to empower women’s active participation in decision-making by strengthening women’s leadership skills. The “Gender Academy” is part of two-year  “Establishment of Women’s Center for Raising Public Awareness” initiative funded by UNDF and implemented by “Young Leaders” and “Bridge to the Future”, both Ganja-based civil society organizations.

The training covered such topics as women in business, the role of PR in increasing women’s leadership skills, gender equality and women in politics.

The USAID-supported Women’s Participation Program (WPP) contributed to the training by sharing costs and involving well-known experts on business planning, women in political participation, and prevention of domestic violence. Notable guest lecturers invited to speak to the participants included a judge of the Constitutional Court, a leading professional on gender-sensitive budgeting, and young women leaders, among others invited by the WPP organizers.

Sabina Alekperova, Head of “Young Leaders” Public Union, noted the successful cooperation with the WPP: “I received a lot of positive feedback from our young participants on the high quality of the training and professionalism of the trainers. I have no doubt that continued cooperation will be mutually beneficial for both our programs”.

Aynur Hasanzadeh, a young leader from Samukh district, stressed the importance of the training for her work with youth: “The “Gender Academy” strengthens our knowledge and shape our skills on leadership. It really gives a strong sense of self-confidence which is so necessary for young activists working in the field of youth development and women empowerment”.

The Women’s Participation Program, supported by USAID and implemented by Counterpart International, seeks to improve the socio-economic status of women in Azerbaijan by raising public awareness on issues that affect women, and empowering more women to engage in the political and decision making processes.