Storytelling a powerful tool for advocacy, promote equality & positive gender norms

Storytelling is a wonderful medium for changemaking. An effective way to understand struggles and achievements of individuals. If anything, storytelling is a powerful tool for advocacy, promote equality and positive gender norms. A reason why footwear brand Charles & Keith has partnered with the UN Women ahead of International Women’s Day 2023 to amplify voices of women across the Asia-Pacific region through storytelling. Therein also reinforcing the brand’s commitment to empower women to forge an inclusive world.

As part of the project Charles & Keith has launched a special purple coloured edition of one of its best-selling handbag styles ‘The Alia’. The brand has pledged a $100,000 donation including 20% of all proceeds from the special edition handbag to fund the UN Women’s ‘Storytelling for Gender Equality’ project.

The project aims to build a network of women storytelling advocates around the Asia-Pacific region and bring their stories closer to a diversity of audiences to inspire positive social norms, policies to tackle violence and create an environment in which survivors of violence against women feel free to speak up about their experiences.

“Storytelling transcends cultures, allowing people to connect with each other through shared experiences. Stories allow us to explore themes and topics that may otherwise be hidden or stigmatised, including women’s experiences with violence. Storytelling about the realities of women and girls across the region informs and amplifies advocacy for social change by challenging mainstream narratives, diversifying perspectives and strengthening a sense of community – ultimately opening the door for changing policies,” stated Melissa Alvarado, Regional Manager on Ending Violence against Women, UN Women Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.