In the project’s target villages, there was a significant shift in women’s empowerment and social perceptions of gender equality. In terms of gender equality and community development, this was a key outcome of the project’s implementation. Women positioned themselves to improve gender equality in their communities, as well as shift women’s power in their households and village authorities to a new power relationship. After joining in the project’s training sessions, the communities’ women leaders demonstrated their confidence and active participation in sharing knowledge, experiences, and skills in order to change the situation within their villages. The women became aware that they can participate in all social activities and community development without barriers, as determined by the local village authority. They began to speak out about their rights and contributions to community development, particularly the women who serve on village councils and forest management committees. 

“Actually, I used to present and discuss with friends and other villagers in my village in this manner, but I never had IEC materials and practice during training, and neither did my team, so I believe it is beneficial for us to participate and develop our workplan in this manner. I appreciate this training, and I believe that having a picture related to the topic discussion for this type of activity will help participants understand and believe what we are talking about.” – Community women leader, Miengnalam village authority 

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