Creating Spaces is an Oxfam Canada project that works with local partners to take action on violence against women and girls, including child, early and forced marriage, in six countries: Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan and the Philippines.

Violence comes in many forms and the Creating Spaces project works with communities to educate women and girls about different forms of violence, what their rights are and how to access services and work collectively to prevent violence.

Julie Devi, 18, knew this reality far too well.

A community mobilizer working with Creating Spaces in the Bhainsliwala village in India, Julie remembers a childhood void of equal rights:

"I was treated differently than my brother my whole life."

She had to quit school because her family couldn't afford her education. But, as Julie explains: "They also did not want to invest in my education because I am a girl."

It is then that Julie started attending a local community group, where she learned to advocate for women's rights and gender equality. This was a brave move, as Julie's brother opposed her taking part in the group.

Yet, it didn't stop her.

"I convinced [my family] them and was able to return to my studies. Through the group, I get girls to stay in school and learn about their rights. After all, it is my dream to create safer spaces for girls in my village."

Share this Story