Claudia Romeu joined Rise Up as an intern in 2013 and is now our Associate Director of  Programs. In her role, Claudia oversees Rise Up’s programmatic work in countries around the world to advance gender equity in education, health, and economic opportunity. This year marks Rise Up’s 15th anniversary and is one of our most ambitious in terms of partnering with local leaders around the world. In 2024, Rise Up will recruit new cohorts of leaders and provide Leadership & Advocacy Accelerator trainings in Kenya, India, Mexico, California, and South Africa. 

We asked Claudia to reflect on the gender equity change she has helped create and why this work matters now more than ever.

What is one of your proudest accomplishments during your tenure at Rise Up?
CR: One of the achievements at Rise Up that I hold with great pride is our contribution to supporting and funding leaders and their organizations in Guatemala, which ultimately resulted in the prohibition of child marriage. Our involvement in this effort began in 2013, when Rise Up made investments in girl-led advocacy initiatives aimed at urging Guatemalan lawmakers to raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 years old. Through strategic funding and collaborative efforts with local organizations, we played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of young advocates and pushing for legislative changes that prioritize the well-being and rights of girls.

Rise Up is committed to empowering girls and ending harmful practices like child marriage. This accomplishment not only demonstrates the impact of collective action and strategic investment but also underscores the transformative power of grassroots movements in affecting positive change at the policy level.

Rise Up has been around for 15 years and we are looking forward to the future. Why do you think strengthening global gender equity and justice is an urgent issue?
CR: Gender equity and justice have long been pressing concerns, but their urgency is heightened at this moment due to noticeable setbacks in previously secured rights, such as the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. The assault on women’s reproductive health and rights is evident in the United States and in numerous other countries around the world. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and proactive in defending these rights, especially as they face increasing challenges and threats.