By Victoria Cornelio | Communications Manager
For many girls in Colombia, harassment in public spaces can begin at a young age and become normalised as part of everyday life. Catcalling and unwanted sexual comments can leave girls feeling unsafe, anxious and unable to move freely through their own communities.
Through our Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) prevention project, Children Change Colombia is supporting young people to challenge these harmful behaviours and create a culture where girls and young women can live free from violence and discrimination.
Recently, a group of young women in Cartagena took the lead in educating students aged 14–17 about street harassment through our “No Es Piropo, Es Acoso” (It’s Not a Compliment, It’s Harassment) initiative. The young leaders created a space where girls could openly discuss their experiences, recognise that they were not alone, and understand that harassment is never their fault.
The workshops also encouraged participants to become advocates within their own school communities. By speaking openly about street harassment and promoting equality, they are helping to challenge behaviours that have too often been treated as normal.
One young participant, Diana, reflected on the importance of connecting with other girls who had experienced harassment:
“We are people, not toys.”
Her words capture the heart of this project: girls deserve to feel safe, respected and empowered in the spaces where they live, learn and grow.
Our work goes beyond raising awareness. We are helping young people develop the confidence to speak out, challenge harmful gender norms and become active agents of change in their communities.
Your support helps us continue creating safe spaces for children and young people to understand their rights, challenge violence and build a future rooted in equality and respect.
Thank you for helping us make that future possible.
By Victoria Cornelio | Communications Manager
By Victoria Cornelio | Communications Manager
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