Social impact professional with over a decade of experience across human rights, social justice and climate action in SE Asia and Europe. Experienced in stakeholder engagement, programme management, advocacy and cross-sector partnerships, with a focus on just transition, equity and meaningful community participation. Skilled at bridging communities and institutions to advance inclusive and sustainable change.

Beyond Participation: Advancing Women’s Agency and Gender Equity for Sustainable Social Impact                                                                                                                                                               Abstract: Women’s participation is widely recognised as essential to inclusive and sustainable development. Yet having women present in programmes, consultations anddecision-making spaces does not necessarily mean they have the agency or influence to shape their outcomes. Beyond Participation examines how we can movefrom representation towards meaningful participation, where women are not only included but are able to exercise agency and influence decisions affecting their livesand communities. Drawing on human rights, community development and stakeholder engagement perspectives, the presentation explores how structural inequalities, unequal access and existing power dynamics continue to shape whose voices are heard and whose experiences inform decision-making, particularly among women from underrepresented communities. It considers how equitable and participatory approaches can bridge grassroots realities with institutional decision-making and strengthen women’s role as rights-holders, partners and contributors to solutions rather than simply beneficiaries of them. At its core, the presentation argues that meaningful social impact goes beyond creating a seat at the table. It requires addressing the barriers that determine whocan participate, whose voice carries influence, and who ultimately has the power to shape decisions.