WUNRN
Global Fund for Women
LEBANON - GIRLS CAMP FOCUSES ON
TECHNOLOGY FOR EMPOWERMENT
Equipped with writing, filming and editing skills, “Geekettes” are ready
to take back the tech and introduce audiences to an entirely new way of looking
at the world: through the eyes of Lebanese girls ages 15-19.
During the weeklong Girl Geek Camp in
July, girls from across
“When I think of technology, I immediately think of data and really
complicated stuff,” said 16-year-old geekette, Reem Chamseddine. “Geek Camp
showed me that technology could be used to create beautiful things.”
This was the first session of Girl Geek Camp, and trainers spent weeks
putting together a program that empowered young girls through technology.
“This is a sensitive age where girls are very much aware of social
issues, and are in a transitional period when it comes to career choices,” said
Chantal Partamian, a filmmaker and Geek Camp trainer. “I wanted to make them
realize that film is a tool of expression, and that the availability of simple
video-making tools give them another way to express, explore and shed light on
their issues.”
Geek Camp session
one participants.
Girl Geek Camp is an initiative of Nasawiya, a
collective of feminist activists in
Members of Nasawiya argue that there is no such thing as
one-size-fits-all feminism. Rather, they are a learning organization that
listens and challenges its members: men and women who are almost all under the
age of 30. In 2009, they put their mission to the test by taking to the streets
of Lebanese neighborhoods to talk to over 2,400 women about feminism.
“I am a feminist because I believe in social change, equality and making
society and the world a more equal place,” said Partamian, who is also one of
Nasawiya’s founders. “I believe in empowerment, autonomy and the right to our
own bodies and thoughts.”
Although there have been many gains for women’s rights in
“Girls at the camp were the most amazing group of young people I have
worked with,” said Partamian. “They are aware of inequalities, and are driven
to work towards bettering things.”
Even though the first session of Girl Geek Camp ended, Chamseddine says
that the girls take keeping in touch seriously by communicating via Facebook
and in person. They are also planning a reunion in 2013.