I've been reading a recent blog by Rebecca Rodskog (who we'll be joining next week in San Francisco for FutureNow! Inspiration Journey #1!) about the importance of mentorship in the workplace, especially for Millenial employees. (And more wisdom about the critical need for mentorship to bridge the generational workforce gap, from Everwise—an innovative business mentorship  model which we'll explore on our trip.)

I'd add that for all generations, there seems to be a natural need for connection and an exchange of wisdom both professionally and personally. I think that women and girls worldwide seek these especially, both within our local circles and across borders. On our Half Sky Journey to Kenya, we were thrilled to meet Lindy Wafula who invited us for lunch at her Project Africa women's center. She has a Rafiki Club ("rafiki" means "friend" in Swahili) which facilitates pen-pal relationships across borders, but also provides a local center of support—for women just needing friendship, professional connections, to women who may need shelter from violence or other extreme circumstances. 

And I'm heartened by the desire for US-based companies to come together and consider the needs and circumstances of communities across borders. 

• Does your business support women-empowering work locally or globally? (What does that look like?)
  
• Does being part of a "giving circle" bring you a sense of community? 
  
• Have you found a mentor or become one from this experience?
  

Would love to hear from you. Please write and tell us more!
Thanks, Rafikis! Now enjoy some Zap Mama...

Half Sky Journeys presents: The Freedom Series—A photography exhibit by The SOLD Project.  Based in northern Thailand, The SOLD Project prevents child prostitution through education, by providing scholarships & resources to children at risk. Celebrate their 5th anniversary, and first ever Portland event!

When: Sunday December 15th from 6 pm to 8 pm.
Where: Urban Nest, 3041 N Williams Ave, PDX

Attendance is free. Please RSVP on Eventbrite!
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/half-sky-journeys-presents-the-sold-project-freedom-series-tickets-9118655143

What:
• Be inspired by an International Photography Exhibit: The Freedom Series
• Discover The SOLD Project with President, Rachel Goble
• Enjoy delicious food and wine

Proceeds from photograph sales fund The SOLD Project’s scholarship, mentorship and awareness campaigns. The SOLD Project prevents child prostitution through culturally relevant programs for vulnerable children. We share their stories to empower creative, compassionate people to act.

See you Sunday!

Have you read this amazing article about a village in India where the tradition is to celebrate the birth of a girl by planting trees? 

We love this eco-feminist concept in action! Reminds us of the powerful link between social justice, human health, and environmental health.