Voices Against Violence

From awareness to action

We are on a mission

What began as a one-day event in 2024, #VAV24, has grown into a full-fledged movement—a dynamic, year-round program that amplifies voices against violence. Through ongoing advocacy, virtual conversations, and community-led action, VAV equips individuals with the knowledge and tools to drive real change, culminating in an annual in-person gathering that brings these efforts to life.

VAV Now Encompasses

#VAVWomen

An annual periodical spotlighting top voices leading the fight against GBV.

Monthly Virtual Events

Our approach is rooted in compassion, offering emotional, mental, and practical support to those affected by sexual human rights violations and menstrual inequities

The Annual Gathering – #VAV25

A flagship event bringing together activists, youth leaders, and stakeholders to celebrate progress and take action.

The Hand-to-Mind Club Writing Competition

A platform for young people to use storytelling as a tool for advocacy and change.

Objectives

1. Raising Awareness and Education on GBV

Increase public understanding of gender-based violence, including sexual grooming, intimate partner violence, child marriage, and harmful traditional practices.
Equip young people with sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) education to recognize coercion, resist violence, and advocate for safer communities“
Engage communities through storytelling, media, and educational resources to dismantle harmful norms and misconceptions“

4. Celebrating Changemakers and Inspiring Action

Spotlight outstanding women annually through #VAVWomen, honoring their contributions to ending GBV and fostering safer communities
Host monthly virtual discussions on key observance days, ensuring continuous engagement in gender justice conversations
Organize the annual #VAV25 event, bringing together advocates, educators, survivors, and policymakers to discuss solutions, share best practices, and recognize achievements in the fight against violence

2. Strengthening Youth-Led Advocacy

Empower adolescents and young women to lead campaigns and conversations against GBV.
Provide platforms such as the Hand-to-Mind Club Writing Competition for young voices to express their advocacy through storytelling and creative expression
Establish youth-driven clubs in schools and communities to foster ongoing engagement with GBV-related themes

3. Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue and Support

Share learnings from the adolescent resource centre to help refine resources and tools adolescents use to have guided discussions in the hand-to-mind clubs
Encourage survivor-led storytelling to break the cycle of silence and stigma surrounding gender-based violence
Provide resources and support systems for survivors and at-risk individuals, ensuring they can access justice, mentorship, and community care.

5. Promoting Long-Term Engagement and Sustainability

Ensure year-round engagement through digital platforms, community clubs, and school-based activities.
Leverage storytelling, data-driven advocacy, and real-time impact tracking to strengthen the reach and effectiveness of the VAV program
Scale impact through partnerships, funding initiatives, and volunteer-driven efforts to sustain program growth beyond one-time interventions

6. Driving Policy Influence and Systemic Change

Align advocacy efforts with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 and 16, which focus on gender equality, justice, and strong institutions
Influence education policies to integrate SRHR and GBV prevention into school curricula
Strengthen partnerships with governments, NGOs, and grassroots organizations to push for sustainable legal reforms protecting women and girls

VAVWOMEN

Meet the Top 25 Voices Against Violence

Each year, VAVWomen honors 25 outstanding women making a significant impact in the fight against GBV. These leaders are shaping policies, supporting survivors, driving community-based solutions, and breaking down systemic barriers.

Interested in nominating someone for #VAVWomen? Stay tuned for nomination details for next year’s cohort.

Annual Gatherings – VAV25

This year, #VAV25 will bring together:

Judges from the Hand-to-Mind Club Writing Competition
Past competition participants and winners
Women leaders and activists from VAVWomen
Expert speakers and advocates from our monthly virtual sessions

This event is a space for survivors, activists, and change-makers to share experiences, build networks, and shape the future of gender-based violence prevention.

Events – Monthly Virtual Sessions

Our Voices Against Violence Monthly Events align with key observance days, keeping the conversation alive throughout the year. Each session brings together survivors, activists, educators, and policymakers to discuss urgent issues, share lived experiences, and propose actionable solutions.

Upcoming Sessions:
(A Lu.ma event tracker will be embedded here so visitors can see and plan for upcoming sessions)

Want to join the conversation? Sign up for updates or propose a topic for future sessions!

Partner with Voices Against Violence

At Voices Against Violence (VAV), we believe in the power of collaboration to drive real change. Whether you’re an advocate, educator, institution, or organization, your partnership can help amplify voices, create safer spaces, and equip communities with the tools to prevent gender-based violence.

Together, we can create a future where gender-based violence is actively challenged and prevented.