Ruskin College Oxford marked International Women’s Week 2010 with a five day seminar at Stoke House.

Sponsored by the Webb Memorial Trust, NGO and trade union activists from Bosnia and Croatia to Georgia, Russia and Ukraine took a week to identify specific challenges facing women who aspire to leadership in their region, and set about tackling them together.

“The international approach allows for exchange of experience and a new dimension of learning”

Context

The week began with an exploration of the historical struggle for gender equality in each country represented. The British perspective came courtesy of visitors including Maria Jaschok (International Gender Studies Centre) and Teresa Hanley (Joseph Rowntree Foundation). Also sharing their expertise and personal insights were Megan Dobney (Regional TUC Secretary), and a team of Unison lay representatives from around the country, graduates of the Webb Institute’s UK programme.

“Very interactive and dynamic – a great atmosphere”

Strategies for change

Thirza White (TSSA) led an inspiring day devoted to issues around campaigning. Through dynamic small group work and action planning, participants learned how to prioritise gender equality in their organisation, and better organise themselves to effectively challenge combat domestic violence and other issues.

“Good lecturers, excellent facilitation”

Coalition building

Feedback from participants celebrates the opportunity to meet, study and network with like-minded individuals from different organisations and countries. Participants returned home to continue their discussions via the interactive website, which also links them to the wider community of former Ruskin students in the region.

”A good combination of theory and practical work”

A bright future

This was the Webb Institute’s fourth ‘Women, Leadership and Gender Equality’ course. Future plans include in-country training based on the Oxford module, adapted and offered to both women and men. But, with its warm welcome and first-class facilities, Stoke House will always be first choice for those who have the chance to study and stay there.

“Bravo for Cook!”