The AWID International Feminist Forum takes place once every four years, and this was the second time that representatives of Feminist Workshop participated. The previous 14th Forum was held exclusively online due to lockdown restrictions. This year, the 15th Forum took place in Thailand. The event brings together feminists from all over the world, making its panels and discussions extremely diverse, covering issues related to women’s rights in different regions.

Co-founder of the Feminist Workshop, Yosh attended International Feminist Forum AWID in Thailand, and shares this experience and advice to those who want to participate in international events

 

Lack of Ukrainian Representation at AWID

Unfortunately, this year, there was a lack of Ukrainian representation at AWID. Due to unclear circumstances, Feminist Workshop’s membership in AWID was not renewed in time, which meant we did not receive information about the event’s preparation. Organizational planning for such a large-scale event takes over a year, during which proposals for panels and activities can be submitted. However, thousands of applications are received, and only a limited number are selected. This is the only opportunity to gain a platform to highlight important issues. If you want to promote your agenda at an event of this scale, you must prepare well in advance and closely follow announcements. AWID’s application deadlines are usually set approximately a year before the forum takes place.

15th AWID Forum in Numbers and Logistics

The 15th International Forum gathered between 3,500 to 4,000 participants and lasted for four days, from December 2 to 5, 2024. This large-scale event featured numerous panels and discussions happening simultaneously. It was essential to plan ahead and choose key events to attend.

Logistics on-site were also challenging—participants had to register through a special app, navigate complex instructions, and orient themselves within a massive exhibition space. As an activist from Ukraine travelling alone, it was difficult to find other Ukrainian participants. Due to security measures, she did not have access to the registration database, so Yosh had to search for fellow Ukrainians independently. Fortunately, she was able to connect with them.

Pre-Forum Activities

Events related to the forum began a day before the official opening, including the opening of the registration desk. Advice: Arriving two days before the event is ideal—one day for adapting to the new environment and another for early registration, participation in preliminary events, and getting familiar with the venue. This extra day is also useful for meeting donors or partners with whom you may have only interacted online before.

Tips for Activists Attending International Events for the First Time

  • Arrive early—ideally two days before the event.
  • Study the forum’s program and decide which events to attend before leaving Ukraine.
  • Print business cards with your personal contacts.
  • Prepare creative flyers or brochures about your organization and key contacts.
  • Wear national symbols or organization merchandise to make yourself recognizable.
  • Bring Ukrainian flags and souvenirs—they will be useful.
  • Take notes—information can be overwhelming and easy to forget.
  • If possible, don’t travel alone or connect with other Ukrainian activists in advance.
  • Consider weather conditions, cultural differences, and food preferences.
  • Pack a first aid kit and sleep aids for jet lag.
  • Create a chat with colleagues—their support, even remotely, can be valuable.
  • Plan an extra day after the conference to follow up with new contacts and donors.

Participation in Discussions & Spontaneous Speaking Opportunity

Although Yosh was not an invited speaker, she attended panels and discussions, actively taking the floor whenever possible. This allowed her to ask questions, network with guests and speakers, and highlight Ukrainian issues. It was also important to monitor event chats for new opportunities.

A concise overview of key issues in your country is useful when introducing yourself. Storytelling is a powerful tool—explaining activism through stories is far more effective than listing dry facts.

This year, organizers made a last-minute announcement—anyone who hadn’t had a chance to speak could register for a one-minute speech during the final event before a 3,000-person audience. The registration was open for only a few hours, and  Yosh had to write her speech overnight. Around 20 people, including us Ukrainian activists, took this opportunity. It was a chance to speak about the war in Ukraine, our national identity, the fight against Russian imperialism, and the role of Ukrainian women. Speaking in front of such a large audience was incredibly inspiring, and I am grateful for this opportunity.

Preparing for such a trip is a complex collective effort. We are deeply grateful to the Ukrainian Women’s Fund for supporting this journey and to ourselves for finding the strength to make it happen.

*The trip to the AWID Forum by Yosh, representing the NGO Feminist Workshop, and participation in this event were made possible thanks to the support of the Ukrainian Women’s Fund. The content of this report is the sole responsibility of the NGO Feminist Workshop. The information presented at the event does not necessarily reflect the views of the Ukrainian Women’s Fund.