The “Inspiration Day” Model: Fostering Women's Leadership by Connecting National Leaders with Grassroots Candidates

The “Inspiration Day” Model: Fostering Women's Leadership by Connecting National Leaders with Grassroots Candidates

Evidence from around the world indicates women are leading efforts to promote good governance. These leaders in government foster participation and transparency by promoting collaboration across ideological lines and social sectors, engaging diverse stakeholders in the governing process, and bringing a unique set of concerns to policymaking.

Unfortunately, local rules, attitudes, and customs often inhibit women's participation in government.
Women need programs to build their self-confidence, make them aware of election laws and procedures, and provide them with skills to be effective candidates and leaders.

Connecting experienced national women leaders with potential female candidates at the grassroots successfully encourages women to run for office. A study of women in local political positions in Colombia, Iraq, and Serbia found that “establishing support systems, mentoring programs, and exchange of experiences with other women in leadership” builds the confidence of women and encourages them to seek office. Inclusive Security put this research into practice through programs in Liberia and Rwanda that enabled established female elected officials to nurture the next generation of leaders by sharing their experiences, priorities, and strategies with local women.