Projects on economic empowerment and inclusion

At Girls on the Lead (GOTLE), we believe that true gender equality begins with economic independence. Through our Economic Empowerment Program, we are equipping young women with the knowledge, skills, and resources to create sustainable livelihoods, lead in their communities, and break cycles of poverty.

Our flagship initiatives the Empower Her: Creating Gender Equality through economic inclusion opf young women in Malawi Project and the Her Livelihood, Her Independence Project are transforming lives in both rural and urban Kasungu. From financial literacy and entrepreneurship training to climate-smart farming and feminist economics, these projects are building a generation of confident, self-reliant young women who are redefining leadership and resilience across Malawi.

The Empower Her Project is at the heart of our mission to strengthen gender equality in Malawi by enhancing the economic independence of young women. Through access to financial resources, entrepreneurship skills, and income-generating opportunities, the project equips young women with the tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods, reduce inequalities, and actively participate in the local economy

“Before this project, I had never thought of myself as a leader. Now, I train others, manage my livestock, and contribute to my family’s income. We are no longer waiting for opportunities we are creating them.”Young Woman right holder, TA Lukwa

In our continued commitment to advancing climate justice, GOTLE implemented a three-month initiative titled Sustainable Livelihoods and Environmental Conservation Project, aimed at addressing environmental challenges in Kasungu Township and fostering community-led solutions for a cleaner, healthier environment.

The project not only improved waste management and environmental hygiene but also elevated the role of women and young people as key players in climate action. By connecting environmental conservation with women’s empowerment, GOTLE continues to advocate for sustainable, inclusive solutions that ensure both people and the planet can thrive.

“When women lead in protecting the environment, communities thrive. Climate justice is not just about the planet — it’s about equality, dignity, and sustainable futures for all.”
— Girls on the Lead (GOTLE)

The Sustainable periods Project was implemented to promote gender equality, economic independence, and environmental sustainability among adolescent girls and young women in Kasungu District. The initiative focused on the production and distribution of eco-friendly reusable menstrual pads, ensuring access to safe and sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions while empowering women through skills development and entrepreneurship.

Through a combination of workshops, menstrual hygiene education sessions, and social media campaigns, the project raised awareness about the environmental impact of disposable menstrual products and addressed cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. It also created economic opportunities for women by training them to manufacture and sell reusable pads, fostering both financial independence and community-led sustainability.

By integrating menstrual health, women’s empowerment, and environmental conservation, the project not only improved girls’ access to education by reducing absenteeism during menstruation but also contributed to reducing plastic waste and promoting climate-conscious living. Its success reflects GOTLE’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and feminist approaches that drive long-term impact in health, education, and economic empowerment for women and girls.