Empowering women in developing countries | Jennifer Lonergan | TEDxMontrealWomen

In the developing world, where the basics of food, education and health are at stake, the need to transform women’s role is critical. When women are economically empowered, they are able to exert a powerful influence over their own lives, their families and their communities, and effect positive social change. Making this happen starts–and ends–with daring to care.

Jennifer Lonergan is the Founder and Executive Director of Artistri Sud, a Canadian charity supporting the empowerment of women in developing countries. She has worked with over 50 artisans and artisan groups in Latin America, Asia, and Africa.
As a buyer for fair trade and ethical wholesale and retail markets in North America—in particular, for her own boutique, Artistri—and in partnership with international development organizations in the US and Canada, she has helped support artisans’ efforts to generate revenue by capitalizing on their strengths to meet the needs of fast-paced marketplace.
Jennifer has a PhD in women’s history and fifteen years’ experience in education and curriculum development, both critical tools in her efforts to build capacity among artisans to meet market needs while supporting cultural heritage preservation.

[mommonyratana]

I am from a developing country (Cambodia), and the story is really heart-touching, in fact many women in my country experiences similar thing as Florence whom you have mentioned in your story too. A splendid speech on women empowerment. Keep up the good work.

[daisynovoavasquez]

I loved your talk, and of course the product of your work. As you said, we need to DARE to care.... You were brave; we need more brave women and people in this world willing to help others, and more importantly willing to be kind to themselves and able to revive their own souls. You did that by redirecting your life through a purposeful and meaningful path. Just by touching one person and not given up on her/him we can make a difference, and I think you have already done so. Keep up the great work. Very inspiring talk!

[sandrajones]

What an incredibly moving story and what an inspiring journey you have taken. Hope you raise the funds to continue your wonderful work with these women!!

[darlenehassall]

A great story Dr. Lonergan. Thank you for sharing. Hope you raise the funds for your great work.

[bintaonyibe]

Great job Jennifer and this is quite inspiring for me because am a lover of the subject matter empowering women in the developing world and thanks for what you are doing.

[johnbuggy]

This stinks of propaganda. How many young boys and young men have to perform menial chores in Africa? I don't believe this woman's story that it is just women who suffer in third world countries. Far too one sided.

[Cheretruck_]

Main source of empowerment - is financial independence + having at least a small pistol with ammos. While others is just liberal blah-blah-blah talks.