IWD: Expert advocates women participation in creative arts

Creative art expert Elizabeth Charles-Dede has advocated women’s participation in the arts, emphasising that arts are a powerful tool for social change and self-reliance.

In a statement on Friday, Dede, who organised a webinar on the Impact of Women in Arts in celebration of International Women’s Day, said the event highlighted the remarkable contributions of women in the creative industry.

“Organised with passion and purpose, the webinar not only celebrated the achievements of women in the arts but also fostered meaningful dialogue about the challenges they face and the opportunities for growth.

“It served as a reminder of the power of arts to drive social change and the importance of creating spaces where women’s voices can be heard and celebrated. It was a step forward in the journey toward gender equality in the arts, and a testament to the incredible impact women continue to make in this field,” Dede said.

The voiceover artist also advocated for arts-driven conflict resolution.

Highlighting her collaboration with a nongovernmental organisation, Put a Smile, she underscored their drive as an unwavering commitment to using art as a tool for social change by mentoring young talents and promoting diversity in the arts.

The webinar featured a panel session where five accomplished women from various creative fields and a male observer, offered perspectives on creative arts and the role women can play.

“One of the standout moments was the discussion on the sobering prediction that gender parity may not be achieved until 2158. This sparked a thoughtful conversation about the need for systemic change and the importance of creating spaces where women can thrive without prejudice.

“The webinar’s impact extended beyond the virtual stage, with two young adults selected for mentorship in photography and scriptwriting under the supervision of Put a Smile. This initiative, though modest in scale, is a shining example of how such events can translate dialogue into tangible action, empowering the next generation of female creatives,” Dede added.