Achieving SDG 6 requires both innovative and inclusive approaches that harness diverse talent and perspectives. This session will explores how gender-balanced, multidisciplinary teams enhance effectiveness, equity, and resilience in water and sanitation. Participating organizations will examine divesity through strategies, solutions, and real-world case studies.
The session will be structured in two parts:
Part I – Organizational Pitch Presentations
Each participating organization will deliver a one-slide presentation , highlighting their key focus areas, initiatives, and perspectives relevant to the panel theme.
Part II – Panel Discussion:
Following the presentations, a moderated panel discussion will take place, allowing for in-depth dialogue, cross-sector insights, and audience engagement.
- AfWASA will present on the design and implementation of gender-transformative investment programs on the African continent. This includes the development, revision, and integration of gender considerations into institutional policies, strategies, guidelines, and standard operating procedures.
- CWiW will highlight the critical need to enhance employment opportunities and address the persistent lack of diversity within the sector. It will examine how limited representation impacts innovation and the implementation of sustainable solutions. It will also showcase the role of CWiW and the “Stronger Together Coalition” in attracting, supporting, and retaining diverse talent across the sector.
- DWA will present its structured mentoring programme, which targets four key groups: young professionals, women, career-break returners and lateral entrants, as well as international professionals. In addition, DWA will share key findings from a recent survey on the working conditions for women in the water and wastewater sector, offering insights into current challenges and opportunities for improvement.
- eThekwini Water and Sanitation will present joint webniars and exchanges between women in water utilities in Durban and Hamburg. These initiatives address topics like the gender pay gap, care work, career development, and male allyship, highlighting diverse perspectives in the water sector.
- WaterLinks will showcase the transformative role of women in a Self Help Group (SHG) managing the Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant in Jatni, Orissa, India. The presentation will also highlight how S/WOP supported capacity building for SHG members. While Jatni's SHG is all-women, other plants include transgender members, promoting inclusivity. The success of these efforts is now being replicated in over 100 FSTPs across Orissa.
- Coop16, a water and sanitation cooperative from Argentina, will share its climate action and community engagement model. It combines technical plans for climate resilience with public awareness initiatives. With 134 emplyees, they promote gender inclusion and yout participation through university partnerships and internships