Voice & Views
Voice & Views
Promoting the human rights of women with disabilities for an inclusive world
Voice & Views is a non-profit organization that aims to create a positive and inclusive society for all people by raising our voice on various social and environmental issues. The acronym V&V represents both our name and our mission. Our founder and executive director, Jannatul Ferdous, is a burn accident survivor and a woman with disabilities in Bangladesh. She faced many challenges and discriminations in her life because of her physical appearance and gender. Her lifelong struggle inspired us to advocate for the human rights of women with disabilities, especially burn accident survivors, in our country. Voice & Views works to promote the dignity, inclusion and empowerment of women with disabilities in Bangladesh through awareness campaigns, capacity building programs, policy advocacy and networking with other stakeholders.
What we do?
Regardless of one’s physical characteristics, gender, or disability, every person has the right to live in decency and respect, according to Voice & Views. We also think that if given the chance and assistance they require, women with disabilities can actively contribute to the advancement of our society.
That is why we speak out on a variety of social and environmental concerns in an effort to build a just and inclusive society for everyone. Our main area of interest is Bangladeshi women who have impairments, particularly those who have survived burn accidents.
Policy Advocacy
We advocate for the rights and interests of women with disabilities at the local, national and international levels. We monitor and influence the implementation of policies and laws that affect them, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the National Action Plan on Disability (NAPD). We also participate in various networks and coalitions with other civil society organizations, government agencies and international bodies.
Awareness
We raise awareness about the challenges and opportunities faced by women with disabilities in Bangladesh, and challenge the negative stereotypes and stigma that often surround them. We use various media platforms, such as social media, radio, television and print media, to spread our messages and stories to the public. We also organize events and campaigns, such as workshops, seminars, rallies and exhibitions, to engage with different audiences and stakeholders.
Capacity Building
We empower women with disabilities to become active agents of change in their own lives and communities. We provide them with training and skills development programs, such as leadership, entrepreneurship, self-defense, health and hygiene, and digital literacy. We also facilitate their access to education, employment, health care and social services.
Networking
We build strong and sustainable relationships with other organizations and individuals who share our vision and mission. We collaborate with them to exchange knowledge, resources and best practices. We also seek to create a platform for women with disabilities to voice their views and opinions on various issues that affect them.
Legal Authenticity
Voice & Views was formally established and registered on 03 February 2015 by the Social Welfare Department of Bangladesh. Additionally, the organization is registered with the NGO Affair’s Bureau of Bangladesh, as of 26 October 2016. These registrations serve as recognition of the legitimacy and accountability of Voice & Views as a reputable organization in Bangladesh.
Celebrating Jannatul Ferdous Ivy: A BBC 100 Women 2023 Honoree
We are thrilled to share the remarkable achievement of our Executive Director, Jannatul Ferdous Ivy, who has been recognized by the BBC 100 Women 2023 list. This prestigious accolade celebrates inspiring and influential women from around the world, and Ivy’s inclusion is a testament to her unwavering commitment and resilience. Jannatul Ferdous Ivy is not only a survivor but also a beacon of hope. Despite facing adversity, she has transformed her challenges into opportunities for change. Here’s a glimpse into her extraordinary journey.
The BBC’s annual list celebrates women who make a difference in various fields. Ivy’s inclusion highlights her impact on society, her resilience, and her unwavering commitment to positive change.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Jannatul Ferdous Ivy’s remarkable journey. Her story reminds us that adversity can be a stepping stone to greatness.