Activity 05 — "Women Leaders of Gontougo" Panel

They keep the region alive. It's time to hear them.

Traders, farmers, entrepreneurs, association leaders, elected officials: the women of Gontougo carry a large share of local economic and social life. The panel gives them the stage they deserve — and gives girls role models they can identify with.

Why this panel

Making often-invisible leadership visible

Rural women play a considerable economic and social role, yet it is rarely recognised in public life. That invisibility deprives girls of role models and holds back women’s access to finance, training and responsibility.

By placing this panel at the heart of the day, the festival makes a clear statement: Gontougo will not develop without its women.

Inspire

Authentic journeys that show it can be done, right here.

Pass on

Practical advice, mistakes to avoid, available resources.

Connect

Direct contact between speakers, young women and partners.

Surface needs

Identify concrete needs for future initiatives supporting women.

Proposed themes

Concrete questions, answers from the field

Proposed topics, to be finalised with the speakers.

Women's entrepreneurship in rural areas

Starting and growing a business: farming, processing, trade.

Access to finance

Savings groups, microfinance, cooperatives: what works for women?

Taking a seat at the table

Community, associative and institutional leadership.

Balancing roles

Family, economic activity and public commitment: testimonies and strategies.

Girls' education and future

The role of mothers and communities in girls’ success.

Women and the environment

More sustainable farming and household practices.

Format

How the panel runs

Opening

Welcome

Presentation of the issues and the speakers.

Round table

Shared journeys

Moderated discussion around the chosen themes.

Dialogue

Audience questions

Priority given to the young women in the room.

Afterwards

Networking

Informal time for introductions after the panel.

Speakers will be announced once their participation is confirmed.

Suggest a speaker

Do you know a woman who inspires Gontougo?

Tell us her name: a woman whose journey deserves to be shared, well known or not. You can also put yourself forward.

The Festival

Programme

Get Involved

Partners