Silent auction supports victims of gender-based violence

THE British High Commission in TT has partnered with local NGO Conflict Women to mark 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Every year, from November 25 to December 10, the world observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

In a news release on November 28, the high commission said the November 26 event featured a silent auction of unique artworks and handcrafted jewellery created by survivors of gender-based violence.

"These pieces are not just objects but represent strength and transformation," the release said.

All proceeds from the auction, it said, went towards supporting these courageous individuals, providing them with essential resources and opportunities for survivors to receive seed capital, mentorship, and business training to launch their small businesses.

The event opened with brief remarks from permanent secretary in the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Rita Toussaint and permanent secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister (Gender Affairs Unit) Vijay Gangapersad
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The release said, there was a "powerful" Indian classical dance performance by Reshma Rajeev from Mahatma Gandhi Cultural Centre that "depicted the journey of empowerment and resilience within women, drawing on the rich storytelling traditions of Indian classical dance."

This year, Conflict Women celebrates its tenth anniversary.

Asiya Mohammed, CEO of Conflict Women, is a recipient of the 100th Commonwealth Point of Light Award from the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2019 for her "exceptional service to survivors of domestic and sexual violence" for her work with Conflict Women.

British High Commissioner Harriet Cross said, “By standing together through initiatives such as this, we all can take action to create a world where gender-based violence is not just reduced but eradicated entirely.”

Mohammed recognised the important steps taken by government, such as the National Strategic Action Plan to end GBV.

She said, "We need to work together strategically and intentionally to implement key mechanisms, such as a special court for GBV, to combat the alarming rise in GBV that we are witnessing.

"Our event with the British High Commission is a first step to shine a light on how women can positively transform their lives beyond victimhood towards entrepreneurship and the arts. Together we can be our sister’s and brother’s keepers.”

One GBV survivor, in her testimony, thanked Conflict Women for its support.

"Through Conflict Women, I have experienced mentorship form some of the best business minds and entrepreneurs both locally and internationally, who have left me with a great wealth of knowledge about starting and managing a business the right way. I am much more confident in myself as an entrepreneur and gained boldness and wisdom to speak and take risks," she said.

Another said, "Conflict Women has empowered me by giving me training and funding tools to fulfil my economic potential through entrepreneurship. These tools allow me to foster personal growth and control my destiny. I am now able to contribute positively to society."

As well as the British High Commission, key supporters included Ernst and Young, the Central Bank, United Way/Youth Business TT, and more, the release said.

Victims of domestic violence can reach out to the National Family Services Division at 623-2608, ext 6701 to 6707. Families in Action offers support at 628-6333 and has a 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-7283 (SAVE).

The Rape Crisis Society has a North Office at 627-7273 and a South Office at 657-5355. Another support group is Lifeline, which can be reached at 645-2800, life@lifelinett.com and which provides 24-hour listening service.

If you or someone you know needs help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to these organisations.