Bringing gender equality into homes within a patriarchal society is both a significant challenge and a transformative opportunity. In deeply entrenched patriarchal contexts, such as much of India, the home must become the first site where gender roles are learned, practiced, reinforced, and—most importantly—reimagined. This lecture will share strategies designed to foster gender equality within households. Eight model villages have been developed to showcase the outcomes of these efforts and to replicate best practices across many more communities. The impact of promoting gender equality at home extends far beyond the household—it reshapes the very fabric of society. Families that embrace equitable values are becoming catalysts for broader cultural, economic, and social transformation.

Shubhra Dwivedy is the CEO and founding member of the Indian non-governmental organization SEEDS. For several years, she has worked extensively on the empowerment of indigenous women and the rights of children in conflict areas. Under her leadership, a strong team of indigenous grassroots women leaders and barefoot counselors has successfully fostered gender equality in nearly 8,000 families over the past five years.

Im Rahmen von Global ConnAct Hochschulwochen Salzburg: Visionäres Denken und Handeln, 13.11.-5.12.25, https://www.suedwind.at/global-connact-2025-salzburg/