Leading Change in Environmental Communication and Women's Empowerment
The story of Samira de Gobert is a truly remarkable one. Since joining UNEP OzonAction in 1998, Samira has been driven by her passion for the environment to play a role in disseminating crucial information about protecting the ozone layer and mitigating climate change. Almost 25 years ago, she created OzoNews, a fortnightly e-news service, that is received globally and appreciated by several thousands of subscribers.
Gender, Communication, and Environmental Advocacy: A Synergistic Approach
In her journey, Samira adeptly intertwines the themes of gender and communication, underscoring their pivotal role in environmental advocacy. By sharing her personal experiences, she sheds light on the broader issues of gender equality within the environmental sector and beyond.
Despite not facing gender-based challenges herself, Samira is aware of the different challenges that women face across different cultural and social contexts. Her narrative is imbued with a sense of pride in her identity as a woman and an unwavering demand for respect, which she extends beyond her personal sphere to advocate for gender equality as a cornerstone of a healthy and equitable society. Through her work, she exemplifies how effective communication and gender inclusivity can act as catalysts for change, driving forward global environmental goals.
Empowering future generations: A vision of inclusivity and action
Raised in Lebanon and trained in marketing and communications, her multicultural background and global experiences have enriched her approach to work. From these experiences, she articulates a clear call to action, emphasizing the collective impact of individual contributions towards environmental preservation and gender equality.
Her advocacy for a world where every action is valued and every individual, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to contribute, resonates as a message of hope and empowerment. By specifically encouraging women to recognize the significance of their actions, regardless of scale, in the broader context of global environmental efforts, Samira aims to foster a sense of responsibility.
Samira hopes that her vision of a world without gender discrimination, where equality is not just an idea but a reality, will inspire different sectors of society to harness the "untapped potential of women for societal advancement."
Samira’s tips for young girls and women
In commemorating International Women's Day, Samira’s reflections serve not only as a tribute to her contributions to environmental advocacy but also as an inspiration for future generations. Her message underscores the importance of perseverance, inclusivity, and the power of communication in overcoming barriers and fostering a more equitable and sustainable world. "Imagine a world without gender discrimination, where every action counts towards a better future. Let's believe in and work towards that world”.
This story was written for the occasion of International Women's Day, 8 March 2024
_______________________________________
To download the article, hover over the image, right-click, and "save image as"
