Support AFARI Fellow's High-Impact Rural Projects

Thanks to your continued support, the Asian Rural Institute welcomes a new class for rural leaders this April. On April 13, ARI hosted the opening ceremony for the class of 2024: seventeen of the 22 participants have arrived on the ARI campus in Nasushiobara, Tochigi. Hailing from 13 different countries, for many of them, this trip is their first on an airplane, or to travel outside their home country. Since then, two more have arrived and have quickly caught up on their orientation. 

Looking ahead, there is still work to be done: the last 3 participants have to clear their paperwork before they can travel to ARI. Their classmates, already engrossed in ARI training, must start their preparations and assist them to catch up when they arrive. For those already here, the particiapnts have started on their nine months intensive training in sustainable agriculture and servant leadership, to test their abilities in fostering sustainable communities.

Today, we'll highlight just one of these rural leaders, to give you an idea of her work back home and why she has journeyed to ARI for her intensive training.

Director of Women-Initiated Projects at Environmental Development Youth Movement (EDYM)

Volta Region, Ghana

"In every woman is a seed of greatness waiting to blossom, and it's our duty to nurture it with education, empowerment, and equal opportunities." These words by Rosemond Victoria help define her role at EDYM as leader of women-directed projects.

Victoria is a passionate advocate for women's rights, hailing from Ghana. Her community in Ho, situated in the vibrant Volta region, is characterized by its strong agricultural tradition and reliance on farming for livelihoods. In Ho, Victoria is actively involved in community development initiatives, particularly focusing on empowering women through education, economic opportunities, and leadership roles. She is known for her dedication to fostering unity and collaboration, by using her skill in agricultural means fostered from her years of training inside the LF Farmers School and volunteering three years at EDYM. Victoria’s work revolves around engaging with community members, building trust, and implementing projects that promote gender equality and sustainable development.

At ARI, Victoria aims to expand her knowledge of sustainable agriculture, community development, and gender equality. She plans to use this expertise to strengthen ongoing projects and lead new initiatives empowering women, enhancing livelihoods, and fostering inclusive growth in her community upon her return to Ho.

Links:

• Read more about ARI's 2024 opening ceremony