Promoting Women as
Community Leaders

Women in Sulu, particularly in conflict-affected areas like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Sulu (BARMM), have been at the forefront of local decision-making. In many families, especially in the absence of male family members, women take on leadership roles, making decisions that affect not only their own families but the broader community as well.

In GMWI's CBRR program, women took on leadership roles in community dialogues. They often acted as mediators between different factions in their communities. Their role as neutral and trusted figures allowed them to facilitate difficult conversations between former combatants, military personnel, and community members.

A specific case is Sherwina J. Said, who led a group of widows in Barangay Sandah, Patikul Sulu. Sherwina and her group were instrumental in encouraging community dialogues, supporting other widows, and advocating for the needs of families affected by conflict.

Further Reading: