Two of Australia’s most prominent human rights activists, Grace Tame and Nyadol Nyuon, will band together this International Women’s Day to shine a light on how women, who are disproportionately affected by poverty, are also the solution to defeating it — particularly in times of economic uncertainty.
Grace Tame and Nyadol Nyuon are joining CARE Australia to call on Australians to bring together friends, colleagues and networks to celebrate the incredible power that women hold in their communities. As authors, lawyers, friends, teachers, colleagues, sisters or mothers, women are the changemakers, connectors, and mentors that drive change for themselves and those around them.
Both from diverse backgrounds and with incredibly inspiring personal stories, Grace and Nyadol — who is rejoining the campaign for its second year — will work with CARE Australia to form a ‘circle’. This speaks to the ‘multiplier effect’ — the incredible fact that when a woman escapes poverty, she brings four others with her — a powerful way to make change.
“In times of growing economic inequality, climate catastrophes and geopolitical conflicts, we know women and girls are disproportionately affected,” explains Suzi Chinnery, CARE Australia’s Head of Capability and Impact. “At CARE Australia, we are thrilled to relaunch the Her Circle initiative, to spark conversation about how Australians can join the fight against poverty by supporting women in particular.”
“Through CARE Australia’s work with people affected by poverty across the Asia-Pacific region, we have seen firsthand how uplifting women can have a powerful multiplier effect. We look forward to working with our esteemed ambassadors, Grace Tame and Nyadol Nyuon, to build a movement championing women’s leadership and power. We’re creating meaningful and lasting change across the globe — getting more Australians on board will make a powerful difference.”
Grace Tame, Australian activist and author, said on the campaign: “Supporting women to overcome poverty starts with awareness that poverty can come in different forms. I know women in my ‘circle’ that have access to resources and wealth but, by virtue of their circumstances, are still oppressed by barriers and constructs of society.
“Oppression can be a vicious cycle passed down from generation to generation — and even passed on, from men to women. As someone who has experienced firsthand the trauma of gender-based inequality and oppression, it is extremely important to me, and close to my heart, to work with CARE Australia as an ambassador for Her Circle 2023.
“It’s essential to have ongoing discussions at all levels and put pressure on decision-makers to ensure the right legislation, policies, and opportunities are in place to support women and fast track equality all around the world.
“We must celebrate and recognise women, because lifting them up has a multiplier effect — I have seen first hand women bringing others with them when they’re given the opportunity to speak, to lead, and to make decisions about their lives. Women create intergenerational change.
“That’s why I’m proud to join CARE Australia this year, and work closely with them to create a fairer, safer, and more sustainable future for all women.”
Nyadol Nyuon, Australian lawyer, human rights advocate and mainstream
