Despite comprising a significant portion of the global conservation workforce, women continue to face systemic barriers that limit their participation and leadership opportunities in environmental initiatives. In light of these challenges, it is imperative to underscore the pivotal role that women play in driving forward conservation efforts and unlocking a wealth of innovative solutions to address the complex environmental challenges.
In the heart of Guna Yala, Panama, a story unfolds that exemplifies the transformative power of women in the realm of conservation and economic diversification. Here, indigenous women, harnessing their ancestral skills, embarked on a journey to intertwine traditional artistry with environmental stewardship through the creation of needlepoint Mola art masks. This initiative, born amidst the global upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, not only provided a vital source of income but also championed sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation and supported environmental education efforts. The Mola masks, vibrant with marine motifs, became symbols of resilience, culture, knowledge and a commitment to Guna Yala’s well-being.
Besides this tale of artistic and economic innovation, research indicates that gender-balanced teams are more adept at generating innovative solutions. By empowering women as partners and leaders in conservation, organizations can effectively address complex environmental challenges. Daneira Brown, a young Guna woman and our very own Education & Outreach Officer in Guna Yala, has dedicated her life to marine conservation. Raised in the Guna tradition, Daneira’s bond with the ocean and its inhabitants, particularly the hawksbill turtles, inspired her to lead efforts in research and education within the Guna community of Masargandub. Her work, deeply rooted in her cultural heritage, emphasizes the critical role of local knowledge and engagement in safeguarding marine biodiversity. Coupling her local and theoretical knowledge from her current science degree, she is inspiring and now mentoring other youth – especially young women, and community members to study and steward sea turtles in her region.
These narratives underscore a broader truth: integrating women into conservation projects is not simply about achieving gender equality but is fundamental to enhancing the efficacy, sustainability, and impact of these initiatives. Women, often at the forefront of livelihood activities such as handicraft production, small-scale fisheries production, and ecotourism, bring unique perspectives and solutions to the challenges of environmental conservation and economic development.
Reinforcing Social Equity and Empowerment
The success of the Mola art masks initiative and Daneira Brown’s conservation work exemplifies the importance of providing targeted guidance and support to women. By ensuring women’s active participation and leadership in conservation efforts, we unlock a vast potential for creative and sustainable solutions to environmental challenges that have a considerable replicative effect, inspiring and engaging others, that are the foundation for conservation movements.
By valuing and incorporating women’s knowledge and perspectives, especially in historically marginalized communities, conservation strategies become more comprehensive and effective. The case of Guna Yala vividly illustrates how indigenous women’s participation can lead to innovative approaches to conservation and sustainable livelihoods, fostering deeper connections between cultural heritage, their cosmovision of nature and environmental stewardship.
This unified approach not only amplifies the conservation message through a gender-inclusive lens but also fosters socially equitable economic opportunities. The active participation of women in conservation is a strategic move that bolsters the long-term viability of these efforts, as studies have shown that gender-balanced teams are more innovative and adept at solving complex environmental challenges.
The experiences in Guna Yala serve as compelling evidence of the critical role women play in driving forward more sustainable and equitable conservation efforts. By recognizing and harnessing the unique strengths women bring to the table, conservation organizations worldwide can ensure that every contribution is valued, and every voice is heard. This is not just a call to action but a roadmap towards a more just and resilient future for our communities and the planet.
