In this episode, we focus on the diverse avenues for activism and the significance of South-South partnerships. We bring together two inspiring leaders from the Caribbean, who, despite having different approaches to activism, share a deep dedication to the region and a commitment to driving meaningful change.

Isabelle Clérié focuses on community-based work in Haiti, emphasizing that true development must come from within the country. She believes that aid and development efforts will only succeed if they are rooted in local ownership and driven by the needs and leadership of the Haitian people.

Gaynel Curry, an ICSC Board member, has dedicated her career to raising the profile of the Caribbean in international forums, particularly through her work with the United Nations. Her advocacy highlights the importance of global attention and support for the region, especially for the Bahamas.

Together, Isabelle and Gaynel discuss how their distinct approaches—grassroots activism in Haiti and international advocacy—complement each other in creating sustainable change and how South-South partnerships can strengthen efforts across borders.

The Difference She Makes is a production of the Global Initiative for Justice, Truth, and Reconciliation, which is a flagship program of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience. It was produced and edited by Katie Marquette at MediaMarq. Learn more at www.sitesofconscience.org

Women’s voices, particularly in marginalized communities, are often overlooked in post-conflict and transitional justice processes, despite the diverse and critical roles they play during periods of conflict and authoritarian rule. Their contributions as leaders, caregivers, and survivors are pivotal, yet their experiences are too often excluded from conversations about justice and memory.

Through activism, women around the world are breaking these silences, ensuring their stories are recognized and shaping the pursuit of justice through advocacy, storytelling, and direct participation.

To discuss these efforts, we are joined by two inspiring guests:

Barsha Kairey, project program coordinator for Social Action for Voluntary Efforts, a civil society organization in Bangladesh supporting women’s empowerment and advocacy.

Pooja Pant, founder and director of Voices of Women Media, a Site of Conscience in Nepal that equips marginalized women with innovative media tools to share their stories and strengthen their impact.

The Difference She Makes is a production of the Global Initiative for Justice, Truth, and Reconciliation, which is a flagship program of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience. It was produced and edited by Katie Marquette at MediaMarq. Learn more at www.sitesofconscience.org

In recent years, democratic values have eroded globally, with increasing militarization and authoritarianism disproportionately affecting women. These trends correlate with restricted reproductive rights, limited access to education and careers, and reduced political representation, as oppressive regimes prioritize control over inclusion and justice.

To explore these challenges, we are joined by two distinguished guests:

Shirley Gunn, founder and director of the Human Rights Media Centre in South Africa, who amplifies the voices of survivors of state violence during and after apartheid.

Fatna El Bouih, Moroccan activist and writer, whose experiences as a political prisoner drive her fight for justice, dignity, and women’s empowerment.

The Difference She Makes is a production of the Global Initiative for Justice, Truth, and Reconciliation, which is a flagship program of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience. It was produced and edited by Katie Marquette at MediaMarq. Learn more at www.sitesofconscience.org

Welcome to The Difference She Makes, a new podcast by the Global Initiative for Justice, Truth, and Reconciliation (GIJTR) that explores the ways in which women are uniquely affected by injustice and conflict through the lens of women activists themselves. Over the course of six episodes, we will bring together over a dozen women from as many countries to gain perspective into the economic and emotional toll women face as a consequence of violence, war, and systemic injustice.

To help us understand the countless ways women are affected, guests come from a range of backgrounds. They include former combatants, prisoners, UN representatives, local leaders, mothers, teachers, survivors, and others, but they all share a commitment to using their experiences and expertise to advocate for women today.

The Difference She Makes is a production of the Global Initiative for Justice, Truth, and Reconciliation, which is a flagship program of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience. It was produced and edited by Katie Marquette at MediaMarq. Learn more at www.sitesofconscience.org

Stay tuned!