This ‘On the Ground’ podcast episode explores insights from the Summit of the Future, an initiative by the United Nations to reform global governance and implement sustainable development goals.

• The Summit of the Future aimed to address pathways for reforming the UN Charter and achieving sustainable development goals but faced critique for insufficient grassroots involvement.

• Despite challenges in civil society representation, there were notable documents adopted, like the Pact of the Future and the Global Digital Compact, aiming at equitable internet access and consideration for future generations.

• Global NGO Executive Committee Website: GNEC

• World Yoga Community: https://www.worldyogacommunity.org

• League of Women Voters: https://www.lwv.org

• Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues: https://www.spssi.org

• International Federation on Aging: https://www.ifa.ngo

In this enlightening episode, Adriane interviews two remarkable figures in mission-driven theatre—Joanna Sherman co-founder and Artistic Director of Bond Street Theatre and Michael McGuigan Managing Director of Bond Street Theatre and an accomplished performer.

With a history dating back to 1977, Bond Street Theatre utilizes the arts as a powerful medium for social justice across the globe. Joanna and Michael share their experiences in transforming communities through performance, often venturing into refugee camps, rural villages, and conflict zones to deliver impactful, message-driven theatre.

Throughout the episode, Joanna and Michael delve into the challenges and rewards of their unique form of theatre. They discuss their creative process, highlighting how they partner with local communities to produce performances that resonate deeply with their audiences. The conversation also touches on the logistics of sustaining such an ambitious program, from securing funding through U.S. embassies and NGOs to adapting to technological advances. Key topics include notable projects in Afghanistan, Myanmar, and South Africa, and their adaptive strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Takeaways:

• Theatre as a Voice for Justice: Bond Street Theatre uses performance art to address social justice issues in over 60 countries, shaping performances that resonate with local audiences.
• Community Engagement: Projects are driven by community needs, with local participants often contributing stories and solutions that are then staged as performances.
• Sustaining Efforts: Success hinges on forming enduring relationships with funding bodies like U.S. embassies and adapting proposals to highlight the measurable impact of their work.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Despite challenges like political instability and pandemics, Bond Street Theatre continues to thrive by adapting its strategies and leveraging technology where possible.
• Long-Term Impact: Beyond immediate performances, the organization’s work often results in long-lasting community engagement and empowerment, evident in their projects' ongoing influence.

Resources:

• Bond Street Theatre – Official website for more information on their global initiatives.
• Contact Bond Street Theatre via Email: info@bondst.org

Immerse yourself in the full episode to discover how Bond Street Theatre uses the transformative power of the arts to drive social change worldwide.

About the Guest(s):

Dr. Mayanka Gupta is a gerontologist, academician, and Joint Secretary of the All India Women's Education Fund Association (AIWEFA), an NGO with special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) since 1999. Her work involves advocacy for women's rights in India, focusing on education and empowerment, as well as promoting projects that address climate change and environmental sustainability. Beyond her NGO work, Dr. Gupta has developed a framework for evaluating care institutions and has been deeply involved in research related to the quality of life for older adults.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Mayanka Gupta engages in an enlightening conversation about her role in AIWEFA and discusses the organization's efforts in promoting women's empowerment and education. Gupta delves into the interesting projects spearheaded by AIWEFA, exploring their global impact and collaboration with the United Nations.

AIWEFA, established under the vision of Mahatma Gandhi and Lady Dorothy Irwin, has been instrumental in shaping women's rights in India. Dr. Gupta outlines some key initiatives, such as the employment program for women cab drivers with Ola Cabs and the 'Khadi Goes Global' event showcasing indigenous weaving arts. These projects highlight AIWEFA's multi-faceted approach to empowerment, from economic opportunities to cultural representation.

Listeners will gain insight into the mechanisms of collaboration with the UN, the strategies for involving youth and leveraging technology, and the advocacy for policy initiatives. Dr. Gupta introduces her personal research on developing a Quality of Life Index for older adults and offers opportunities for collaboration in research and policy implementation.

Key Takeaways:

• AIWEFA is dedicated to enhancing women's empowerment, with a history of rights advocacy and education efforts in India.
• The organization has an extensive record of participating in and organizing events in collaboration with the United Nations.
• Dr. Gupta's research on the Quality of Life Index offers a unique perspective on elder care and has potential for broader application.
• Technology and student engagement play crucial roles in expanding AIWEFA's outreach and impact.
• Collaborative opportunities are available for those interested in contributing to AIWEFA's goals or Dr. Gupta's ongoing research.

Notable Quotes:

• "We are dedicated to enhancing women's empowerment."
• "Active engagement with UN agencies, member states, and civil society globally on women's issues."
• "Leveraging the project further [with ECOSOC status]."
• "Investing in youth leadership is very, very crucial."
• "Embracing innovation and technology, NGOs should definitely reach out to broader audiences."

Resources:

• AIWEFA Website: www.aiwefa.org
• Email for Collaborative Opportunities: aiwefa29@gmail.com
• Dr. Mayanka Gupta's LinkedIn profile and contact information for collaboration on the Quality of Life Index project.

Tune in to discover how AIWEFA's legacy intertwines with contemporary efforts to empower women and how individuals and organizations can collaborate for positive change. Stay connected for more transformative dialogue in upcoming episodes.