Sally Baden Quickfire

Why do you support Women for Women International?

Because I believe in the power of women supporting each other and organising for change, even in the most difficult of situations. 

Why are you passionate about gender equality and women’s rights?

I am passionate about social justice and gender equality is a key part of that. We are living through major disruptions in our ecological, political, economic and social systems right now. Women are mobilising, to protest about what is happening to our world and the violations of their rights, but also to create new systems based on mutual support and solidarity, caring for others and the environment.  

 What is your feminist origin story/what is your earliest memory of witnessing gender inequality and wanting to do something about it?

My feminist consciousness developed when I was quite young, from witnessing how my Mum was expected to do all the housework as well as her full-time job.

Growing up in the UK in the late 1970s and early 1980s, I was influenced by the Women's Liberation Movement of that time, including campaigns such as wages for housework. At that time sexist and misogynistic behaviour and language was rife in the media and daily life.

In my first year at university in Leeds, the Yorkshire Ripper was at large, there was a very active student campaign against violence against women. I went to kung fu classes for a while to learn self-defence, that was when I started to think of myself as a feminist. 

What is the proudest moment of your career to date?

I had the privilege of leading a Masters Programme on Gender and Development for two years, whilst working at the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex. It was a very rewarding experience to learn from, with students from all over the world, many of whom have gone on to be leaders in women's rights and gender equality.  

What skills do you bring from your day job to your role as a trustee?

I bring some experience of how to promote diversity and inclusion in organisations, though I am still very much learning about this in my day job at a leading university. 

I worked for 12 years as a policy adviser in an international development NGO, and spent a fantastic seven years in West Africa. My focus was on supporting small scale farmer organisations, including grassroots rural women's groups and networks, strengthening them, so they could influence policies. So I also bring that experience of the power of collective action and organising to sustain livelihoods, and how to transform women's lives.  

What have you learnt during your time as a trustee?

To listen and give supportive feedback, generously. To not be afraid to question or challenge, when I feel something is not right, or I need more information.  

What has been your favourite part of being a trustee?

Learning from inspiring people from across the globe, especially from programme staff about the amazingly, creative ways they and the women we serve have adapted to the pandemic, often while dealing with major personal challenges and trauma. 

What else are you passionate about? How do you spend your spare time?

I love cooking and entertaining, which I sadly can't do at the moment, but have been trying out new recipes anyway. The pleasure of being creative with food has sustained me. I've also become an outdoor swimmer and am enjoying cold dips when I can get to a lake or river.    

Who is one woman who inspires you and why?

There are so many inspirational women, many not well known. Stacey Abrahams is one of many leading African American women fighting for social justice. On the global stage, I am particularly inspired by the courage and determination of young women leaders like Malala [Yousafzai] and Greta Thunberg.  

 Do you have any advice for a first-time trustee?  

Take your time to build relationships with staff as well as your fellow trustees. Don't worry if you don't feel like you are 'doing' very much, the most important thing you can do is to ask questions, listen and give honest but supportive feedback and challenge.