2024 SMO Conference: Pathways to Gender Equality

The Pathways to Gender Equality conference aims to advance gender equality and empowerment by showcasing the impactful work of small and medium organizations (SMOs) in international cooperation. The conference will also gather insights from these organizations on the support needed for future capacity-building programs. This initiative aligns with the core Action area of Global Affairs Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP), Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a cross-cutting theme.

Join us in Ottawa and let’s explore together the important role of SMOs in advancing gender equality worldwide! Learn more about the conference below.

Objectives

1. Showcase impact: Provide opportunity for SMOs to share their achievements, innovative approaches and good practices in contribution to gender equality and empowerment in the spirit of knowledge sharing amongst peers.  
2. Engage with international leaders: Promote global voices through international speakers, partnered and working with Canadian SMOs, to open discussion and share their knowledge across the sector.
3. Cultivate collaboration and community: Foster connections and strengthen the SMO community through informal gatherings, encouraging collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the development of supportive networks among participants.
4. Consult on capacity building: Gather insights from SMOs on the support and resources they need to enhance their impact, informing the development of potential future capacity-building programs.

What to expect

• Keynote presentation from a leading expert on gender equality and empowerment;
• Interactive sessions to exchange best practices and innovative approaches led by peer SMOs;
• International perspectives shared by international partners of Canadian SMOs;
• Networking opportunities to foster connections and informal discussions among participants;
• Consultation activities to gather input on the needs and challenges faced by SMOs.

Audience

The Pathways to Gender Equality conference is designed for representatives from SMOs funded by the Development Impact Window and FIT program, as well as any SMOs involved in international cooperation and committed to advancing gender equality and empowerment.

How to Apply:

Click here to apply!