06:30, 26 December 2024
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
In recognition of International Human Solidarity Day, we spoke with Sharon Gaffka, a passionate advocate for women’s rights and safety, to explore how she is using her platform for good. Sharon, an award-winning campaigner on Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), has become a leading voice on important issues such as spiking and online safety.
Formerly a civil servant and a familiar face from Love Island, Sharon has used her public profile to raise awareness of key causes, particularly women’s empowerment and the fight against gender-based violence. Her advocacy has sparked vital conversations about women’s safety, both in public spaces and online.
Sharon is also a strong believer in the importance of supporting diverse voices. “We need to listen to a range of experiences—especially those that are often unheard. Whether it’s women from different backgrounds or communities, their voices are crucial in shaping a more inclusive and fair society.”
This International Human Solidarity Day, Sharon’s message is clear: championing diverse voices is essential not only for addressing injustice but also for building a more connected and equal world for everyone.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Refuge. Refuge is one of the largest providers of specialist domestic violence services in the UK, supporting women and children who are fleeing violence and abuse. They provide emergency accommodation, helplines, and advocacy for those in need. Find out more.
50:50 Parliament. This organisation is on a mission to attain 50:50 gender balanced representation on elected bodies throughout the UK by 2030. Learn more here.
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust. This charitable trust focuses on personal safety, particularly raising awareness about stalking and violence against women. They run the National Stalking Helpline and provide support services for victims of violence and harassment. Support them here.
