The goal of GLOW camp is to initiate change and impact on a group of young girls (age 13-18) who grow up in a culture where women's opportunities and chances for success are severely compromised. During a four day overnight camp the girls will have the opportunity to learn, among other topics, self-esteem, defining gender roles and overcoming challenges that confront Ecuadorian women, development of healthy relationships, sexual education, and taking on leadership roles.
In Ecuador, gender roles are deeply ingrained into the culture. Men usually have the upper hand and women become less involved in their community. The province of Manabi, where GLOW, Girls Leading Our World, camp will take place, has the highest rate of domestic violence against women and is also high in teen pregnancies. GLOW camps seek to empower young women in these communities to become aware of these gender roles and training them to be leaders in their families and communities.
By focusing on themes such as self-esteem, leadership, gender, and sexual education during the GLOW Camp, girls will leave feeling more confident and capable as women and citizens of Ecuador. They will have a deeper understanding of gender roles, equality, life skills, healthy relationships, and career planing. This, in return, will decrease the likelihood of them becoming a victim of violence or a young mother and increase the likelihood that they become community leaders and active citizens.
An estimated 60 young women will attend our GLOW Camp to be hosted in March 2017. The girls will become the second group to attend and spread the message of the lessons presented at the camp. They will be given the tools and resources to continue advocating for gender equality in Ecuador with confidence.
