Yasmina Benslimane: A Trailblazer for Gender Equality & Global Empowerment
In a world where gender equality remains a distant dream for many, Yasmina Benslimane emerges as a guiding light, igniting change and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Born and raised in Morocco by a single mother, her early encounters with patriarchal norms ignited a fire within her to challenge the status quo and champion the rights of women and girls worldwide.
As an award-winning feminist activist, consultant, and women's empowerment coach, Yasmina's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Armed with a profound commitment to enhancing the political participation and representation of young women and girls, particularly from Global Majority countries, she has carved out a path that resonates with courage, resilience, and unwavering determination.
At the heart of Yasmina's mission lies Politics4Her, a groundbreaking initiative amplifying the voices of marginalized groups and addressing critical issues ranging from climate justice to gender-based violence. With six regional hubs and over 100 team members, Politics4Her has become a force to be reckoned with, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of hundreds of thousands globally.
Yasmina's academic prowess, coupled with her hands-on experience, underscores her expertise in navigating complex issues with finesse and precision. With degrees from esteemed institutions such as Saint Louis University and the United Nations Mandated University for Peace, she brings a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights to her work.
Her accolades, including being named in Forbes 30 Under 30 and recognized as one of BBC's 100 most influential women of 2023, are a testament to her monumental impact on society. From prestigious platforms like the United Nations to grassroots movements, Yasmina's voice reaches far and wide with a clarity and conviction that demands attention.
In harnessing the power of digital technology, Yasmina has transcended geographical boundaries, connecting women leaders globally and equipping them with the tools to effect tangible change. Her innovative approaches have not only raised awareness but have also empowered women to assert their rights and assume leadership roles in their communities. Beyond her remarkable achievements, Yasmina's unwavering resolve in times of crisis sets her apart as a true humanitarian. Whether mobilizing funds for menstrual care in Morocco or supporting the evacuation of young women in Sudan, her actions speak volumes about her compassion and commitment to making a difference, one life at a time.
In a world fraught with inequalities and injustices, she stands as a shining example of what is possible when individuals dare to dream and strive for a more inclusive and equitable future. This week in conversation with TXP Talk…
Yasmina, what inspired your vision of a world where women's voices are not just heard but influential in shaping policies and societal progress?
I was deeply influenced by my upbringing in Morocco, raised by a single mother who struggled against societal barriers. Witnessing the injustices she faced first-hand ignited a passion within me to challenge these oppressive structures. I saw how women were often silenced in decision-making processes, particularly in areas like law, culture, and social norms. This experience propelled me to envision a world where women's voices are not only heard but also hold significant sway in shaping the policies and progress of societies.
Can you tell us more about Politics4Her and its mission in elevating the voices of marginalized groups, and how it addresses issues like climate justice, forced migration, and peace-building?
Politics4Her was born out of my studies in Political Science and Communications. Recognizing the glaring absence of diverse voices in mainstream discourse, Politics4Her focuses on amplifying the voices of marginalized groups, particularly in global majority countries. We address interconnected issues like climate justice, forced migration, and peace-building because we understand that these are not isolated problems but symptoms of systemic inequality. By centering the experiences and perspectives of those most affected, we strive for more inclusive and effective solutions.
How do you envision women's voices shaping policies and driving societal progress in the world, especially in regions where they are often marginalized?
I firmly believe that women are natural changemakers and leaders within their communities. Despite historical erasure, women have always played pivotal roles in societies worldwide. In regions where they are marginalized, women's voices have the power to challenge oppressive systems and drive meaningful progress. By empowering women to assert their rights and participate in decision-making processes, we can unlock the full potential of societies and create more equitable and prosperous futures for all.
Can you share some examples of systemic barriers that hinder women's participation in leadership and decision-making processes, and how your initiatives address them?
Certainly. Systemic barriers such as forced displacement, climate change, and period poverty disproportionately affect women and hinder their participation in leadership roles. Politics4Her tackles these challenges head-on by providing support, mentorship, and resources tailored to the needs of marginalized women and girls. For example, our initiatives include mentorship programs for displaced women, advocacy for climate justice in marginalized regions, and campaigns to address period poverty through education and access to menstrual hygiene products.
Can you discuss some of the challenges you've faced in leading fundraising efforts for humanitarian causes, especially in crisis situations, and how you've overcome them?
Leading fundraising efforts, especially in crisis situations, presents numerous challenges, from bureaucratic hurdles to limited funding. As volunteers without core funding, we rely on ourselves to provide time and resources. Overcoming these challenges requires resilience, creativity, and strategic partnerships. Despite the obstacles, our unwavering commitment to our mission drives us forward, finding innovative ways to secure funding and support for those most in need.
Can you share more about your long-term goals for Politics4Her and how you envision it evolving in the future?
My long-term vision for Politics4Her is one of global impact and sustainability. I envision expanding our reach to empower women and girls on a larger scale, developing capacity-building programs that empower them to become leaders in their communities. By fostering a network of empowered individuals and advocating for systemic change, Politics4Her will continue to evolve as a driving force for gender equality and social justice.
As someone deeply involved in international platforms and advocacy work, what legacy do you hope to leave behind in the fight for women's empowerment and gender equality?
My greatest hope is that Politics4Her transcends any individual contribution. I want our legacy to be one of collective empowerment, where every woman and girl knows that her voice matters and her potential is limitless. By nurturing a culture of solidarity and activism, I hope to inspire lasting change and pave the way for a more equitable and just world.
How do you envision the landscape of women's rights and gender equality shifting in the coming years, and what role do you see yourself playing in that evolution?
I am optimistic about the future of women's rights and gender equality, especially with the increasing momentum driven by technology and social media. I see myself continuing to advocate for change, amplifying marginalized voices, and pushing for policy reforms that address systemic inequalities. By leveraging my platform and resources, I aim to be a catalyst for positive change and contribute to the ongoing evolution towards a more inclusive and equitable world.
Are there any specific milestones or achievements you aspire to accomplish in your advocacy journey?
My ultimate aspiration is to inspire and impact as many young women and girls as possible. Every individual empowered is a milestone in itself, contributing to the larger movement for gender equality and social justice. I hope to continue breaking down barriers, challenging norms, and paving the way for future generations to thrive without the constraints of gender-based discrimination.
Finally, if you could paint a picture of the world you envision for future generations, what would it look like, and how do you hope your work contributes to making that vision a reality?
In my ideal world, equality and peace reign supreme, and no one is discriminated against because of their gender. I envision a world where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to fulfill their potential and live free from oppression. My work with Politics4Her is a small piece of the puzzle, contributing to a larger movement for social change and empowerment. Through collective action and solidarity, I hope to play my part in creating a future where gender equality is not just a dream but a reality for all.
Photos: Yasmina Benslimane
