1st

1st for Women has built a reputation as a brand dedicated to supporting and empowering women. However, the rising incidence of gender-based violence presented an urgent challenge that required a strategic response from an industry leading brand. The brand needed a CSI strategy that would not only address the immediate needs of GBV survivors but also contribute to long-term societal change by tackling the root causes of violence against women. The primary challenge was to create a focused and impactful CSI strategy that could effectively address the complex issue of gender-based violence. This required a careful balance between prevention and response initiatives, ensuring that the strategy could drive real, measurable change while also aligning with 1st for Women’s brand values of empowerment and support for women.

We developed a comprehensive CSI strategy for 1st for Women that focused on both preventing gender-based violence and providing holistic support to survivors. The strategy included the following key components: Flagship Prevention Programme: The development of a flagship prevention programme within a selected community, focusing on shifting attitudes and behaviors related to gender inequality and violence. This programme would involve gender equity training for both men and women, with a particular emphasis on young people aged 16-19. By addressing the root causes of GBV—such as toxic masculinity, rigid gender roles, and societal norms—the programme aimed to create a safer, more equitable environment for women. Holistic Support Services: In addition to the prevention programme, we recommended continued investment in community-based support services for GBV survivors. This included the provision of comprehensive services such as legal, medical, and psychological support within a community center. The approach was designed to ensure that survivors receive the necessary care and assistance from the moment of trauma through to legal resolution. Digital Tools and Resources: To extend the reach and impact of the CSI initiatives, we recommended the development of a digital platform - that would provide survivors with immediate access to resources, emergency contacts, and information on their rights. This platform would also serve as a public awareness tool, helping to educate the broader community about GBV and the available support mechanisms. Strategic Partnerships: We emphasized the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, including NGOs, government bodies, and academic institutions, to amplify the impact of the CSI strategy. By partnering with organisations 1st for Women could leverage additional expertise and resources to enhance the effectiveness of its initiatives.

The implementation of this CSI strategy has positioned 1st for Women as a leading advocate in the fight against gender-based violence.