“Water and sanitation operators are critical players in the efforts to achieve sustainable, equitable, and universal access to services. I believe that women have a central role to play as powerful agents of change.”
Empowering Women in Water and Sanitation: A Path to Equality
In line with UN-Habitat’s mission, GWOPA prioritizes gender mainstreaming and inclusive urban basic services within water utilities and WOPs. By collaborating with members and partners, we actively advocate for these strategies, aiming to inspire collective change towards a gender-equal world.
GWOPA is regularly undertaking initiatives in the following areas to promote gender equality with utilities and sanitation providers:
Amplifying the voices of women: GWOPA actively highlights and promotes the achievements and contributions of women in the water and sanitation sector. Through various platforms, including conferences, webinars and publications, we showcase the success stories of women leaders, professionals and innovators, providing inspiration and role models for others.
Knowledge sharing initiatives: GWOPA facilitates the exchange of knowledge and best practices related to gender mainstreaming in the water and sanitation sector. We organize workshops, training sessions and online forums where professionals can learn from each other’s experiences, gain new insights and access resources to support gender equality initiatives within their organizations.
Networking and mentorship: GWOPA fosters networks and mentorship opportunities to support women’s advancement and empowerment in the water and sanitation sector. Through mentorship programs, peer-to-peer support networks, and matchmaking initiatives, we connect aspiring women professionals with experienced mentors and peers who can provide guidance, advice, and encouragement in their career development journey.
GWOPA strives to create a more inclusive and equitable water and sanitation sector where women have equal opportunities to participate, lead, and thrive.
GWOPA Joins the Stronger Together! Coalition
GWOPA is proud to partner with the Stronger Together! Coalition, which unites seven global and regional networks dedicated to empowering women in the water and sanitation sector.
Together, we aim to create an inclusive, equitable space where women can lead, thrive and advance in their careers.
The coalition fosters collaboration, supports professional growth and advocates for gender equality within the sector, amplifying the collective voice for change.
Discover the inspiring journeys of women professionals in the water sector by listening to the 'Women in Water' podcast series, hosted by Su Lat Phyu, Project Coordinator at Mandalay WaterWorX.
Across eight engaging episodes, these conversations highlight the vital role of women in shaping the future of water and sanitation.