Why should we invest in women?

"If you strike the women, you strike the rock." African proverb

All over the developing world, women constitute the bedrock of their communities. They represent a significant part of the agricultural labour force, they do the majority of the domestic work, and they care for children, the sick and the elderly. Their hard work, however, goes largely unrewarded; women represent around 70 per cent of the world's poor.

At Find Your Feet, we recognise women's valuable contribution to the health, well-being and productivity of their families and communities. We bring women together to form self-help groups, Village Savings and Loans Groups and other community associations. We provide them with access to information, training and affordable credit, and we support them to start up profitable small businesses that will increase their income.

We work closely with both men and women, to ensure that women's burden is shared and they have the full support of their families.

So why do we invest in women?

Because of the positive impact the economic empowerment of women has on economic growth and poverty reduction. Because investing in women's earning power boosts their confidence, increases their influence in household decision-making and improves their social status. Because when women increase their income, they invariably invest in improving the lives of their families – in better food, healthcare and education – bringing lasting change for the next generation. But also, because we believe in equality: a world in which women have the same opportunities as men to achieve their full potential.

Investing in women benefits us all.

"We will never leave the self-help group now, it has benefitted us so much. Before the group we had ever been exposed to saving, to hygiene and keeping our water clean. Now we are free from moneylenders, we have money for agriculture, medicines and emergencies. But most importantly we can send our children to school." Teresa Hembron, self-help group member, India (pictured above).

Find out more about the difference you can make and where your money goes when you invest in Find Your Feet.