Embracing Diversity and Empowerment: Insights from a workshop on sexuality and stereotypes

In a world striving for inclusivity and equal opportunities, education emerges as a powerful tool. Every individual, irrespective of their background, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to society. Such values are the core essence of the Foundation, which recently organised a remarkable workshop led by Dr. Rosaida Ochoa Soto and Norma Guillard Limonta. This workshop was not only about education; it was a celebration of diversity and empowerment that left a lasting impact on all participants.


Setting the Scene: A Party of Ideas


Dr. Rosaida's presentation technique had a unique twist – participants were invited to imagine a party where each person was to bring something starting with the initial of their name. As the room buzzed with excitement, the icebreaker led to meaningful introductions. This approach set the stage for an engaging, collaborative environment, where everyone had a voice.


Expectations Unveiled: Brainstorming for Transformation


The workshop's success hinged on understanding participants' expectations. Through the Brainstorming technique, two questions took centre stage: "Why are you here?" and "What do you hope to achieve from this workshop?" As the responses flowed, a tapestry of ambitions emerged:

  • Enriching work tools
  • Elevating cognitive levels
  • Connecting with fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community
  • Reuniting with old friends and allies
  • Creating community awareness about LGBTQ+ issues
  • Sharing personal experiences for mutual growth
  • Multiplying new techniques in various spaces


The aspirations showcased a commitment to growth, diversity, and a drive to make a difference.


Eyes on the Screen: The Visual Journey Begins


An audio-visual presentation on the "Advancement Program for Women" brought new dimensions to the discussions, and lively debates ensued as the video was analysed:

  • Concerns arose about gender diversity, as it did not address orientation.
  • The absence of sexual health education for lesbian, bisexual and transsexual women was noted.
  • Dr. Vivian, a gynecologist, discussed the need for informed consent and choices in health procedures, in particular the the cytological test.
  • Stereotypes and clothing barriers were highlighted, hindering comprehensive health care, including the cytological test for trans-men.
  • The importance of communication and gender perspective integration was emphasized.
  • Education's role in eradicating discrimination and delivering equity was underscored.

 

This video was reviewed in the Municipality of Plaza de la Revolución by the FMC, and suggestions for improvements were made, but in this viewing it was seen that these recommended changes were not made.



Championing Equality: Confronting Racism and Discrimination


The focus then shifted to the "Program against Racism and Racial Discrimination." Dr. Rosaida prompted the group to explore where Afro-descendant lesbian women faced discrimination and where progress had been made. The ensuing discussions encompassed various facets:

  • Racial discrimination awareness was lacking among many.
  • Policies often failed to account for intersectionality.
  • Inequities persisted in employment, socioeconomics, and living conditions.
  • Communication gaps hindered the program's effectiveness.
  • Historical reparations and knowledge dissemination were deemed vital.

 

Knowledge Dialogues: Breaking Stereotypes and Promoting Empowerment


Norma introduced the Knowledge Dialogues Methodology, focusing on sexuality and sexual stereotypes. Groups engaged in dynamic discussions, revealing insights on the following areas:

  • The struggle for leadership recognition due to stereotypes.
  • The tension between feminine appearance and harassment from men.
  • Beliefs about lesbian roles and relationships.
  • The power of intercultural dialogues to foster trust.
  • The importance of horizontal communication in empowerment.


The workshop was praised for its positive impact on awareness and identity, though challenges of stereotypes persisted.


Reflections and Forward Movement


The workshop's conclusion sparked reflections on its significance. Participants voiced their evaluations in a single word: Pride, Positive energy, Freedom, Joy, Satisfaction, Courage, Love, Resilience, Enrichment. It was evident that this event had ignited a fire of positive change within each attendee.


A Brighter Tomorrow: An Education for All Vision


As the workshop closed, the echoes of discussions reverberated in the air. The Foundation's commitment to diversity, empowerment, and inclusivity shone brightly. This gathering wasn't just a workshop; it was a journey that embraced differences and fuelled progress, leaving behind a legacy of understanding, respect, and unity. In a world striving for education and equity, events like these illuminate the path towards a brighter tomorrow for all.


Steve Sinnott • August 23, 2023

An Education Revolution

By Ann Beatty • April 6, 2025
This week while out and about in Hertfordshire and we visited the British Schools Museum. We discovered the first school opened by Joseph Lancaster, was known as the ‘Poor Childs Friend”, was in 1810. It was his lifelong mission that all children regardless of their circumstances, should benefit from an education. Apparently, Joseph heard a small girl say, “Oh that I could read!” and this inspired him to create a simple education system that eventually would benefit children across the world. Joseph was the tenth son of a poor man himself from South London. His aim was to offer free education for everyone. However, it would be 93 years before the U.K. government finally made education free for all. There are still many countries today where education is still not free to access and it is certainly not compulsory for primary and secondary age pupils. Joseph’s mission really resonates with that of the Foundation, to support access to education for all. We enjoyed our visit and appreciated the tour given by two of the Museum’s volunteers, Angela and Clare. They described some of the challenges faced in the early years of formal education and shared some of the rules that teachers and students had to abide by with us. 

Sparks Bristol

By Ann Beatty • April 4, 2025
Sparks Bristol is a collaborative community project initially envisioned by The Global Goals Centre, (GGC) more of which below. A few years ago, GGC took over an empty Marks and Spencer store and that’s how Sparks was born. Sparks is a department store with a difference, co-created by Global Goals Centre and Artspace Lifespace. On the ground floor is a huge range of shops, installations, events and more. Upstairs is a hub for local artists, it offers affordable studios as well as rehearsal and performance space. The Global Goals Centre is a Bristol-based educational charity inspired by the Sustainable Development Goals. (SDGs). GGC believe the SDG’s or Global Goals as they are sometimes known, can be reached, with imaginative solutions and widespread education and engagement. They work with partners to promote creative solutions and deliver ground breaking projects that work towards these ambitious goals. The Steve Sinnott Foundation supported the Global Goals Centre with seed funding when it first started over 5 years ago. This month we went to visit them to see how they are getting on and we were taken aback by the volume of work they have achieved since they started. It is amazing to see how though working together with other local community groups it has grown into the vibrant centre it is today. All of the creative projects they host are linked to the SDGs. They cover topics that tackle poverty, education, climate change, fashion recycling and upcycling, to name a few.

Spring is Here! Looking Ahead!

By Ann Beatty • March 28, 2025
Spring is definitely here, daffodils, blossom and crocuses are all basking in the bright sunshine. There is still a chill in the air in the shade but it's happening and all the seeds that were sown over the last few months are coming to fruition. At the Foundation, we have been planning the year ahead and our Positive Periods and Prevention of Gender Based Violence programmes got underway this weekend in Haiti and Ghana. These projects will have a long-lasting effect on the lives of the women and girls who take part: tackling the root causes of gender-based violence and enabling girls to attend school every day when they have their period, to feel safe at school and know how to take action when they are faced with violence. These are the first of many projects planned for the year ahead as we continue to work towards Education for All children everywhere.