This blog post was written by Margarita Spasova, who participated in the How to Be a Gender Trainer course with Dr. Lucy Ferguson in February 2024. Check out the next session of How to be a Gender Trainer here.

Taking the course "How to Be a Gender Trainer" was an inspiring and transformative  experience that resonated with me on multiple levels. The focus on applying feminist pedagogical principles throughout the whole training cycle to ensure participatory learning, validation of personal experience, encouragement of activism and accountability and developing critical thinking aligned perfectly with my background in the field of non-formal education. One aspect that struck a chord was the emphasis on how to work with resistance to gender equality in a training context. As a passionate gender equality advocate, remaining calm and composed in certain situations has not always been easy so the practical exercises in a safe and brave space have been beneficial.

The course challenged some of my preconceived notions about conducting gender trainings and pushed me to confront my own biases. Through thought-provoking discussions and interactive activities, I gained a deeper understanding how to address the role of privilege in shaping societal norms and how to navigate difficult conversations in a training context. Of course, this would not have been possible without the fantastic group of gender professionals from across the world who were part of this journey and our instructor, Dr. Lucy Ferguson, who skillfully navigated us.

I wholeheartedly recommend the course to others interested in becoming gender trainers or championing gender equality in their respective fields. Beyond providing practical skills and knowledge, the course offers a supportive learning environment where individuals can engage in critical dialogue, challenge societal norms, and emerge as agents of change. I can’t wait to start planning my next training to fully integrate what I learned from the training and pay forward my passion for a more just, equal, and inclusive society for everyone.

~ Margarita Spasova