The Birth of Ney’tay: From Volunteering to a Formal Organization
Ney’tay’s journey began two years ago when a group of passionate women friends started volunteering to support high school and college girls in their community. Our informal initiative focused on helping these young women navigate the challenges they faced in education, personal development, and safety. While the efforts were inconsistent, the group’s commitment to empowering girls laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a more formal and impactful organization.
Recognizing the need for more sustained and comprehensive support for women and girls, the group officially founded Ney’tay as a charitable organization. The name “Ney’tay,” meaning “Come forth (forward) and shine” in Amharic, beautifully aligns with the mission of the organization: to empower women and girls to rise above adversity and embrace their full potential. As a women-founded and women-led initiative, Ney’tay is uniquely positioned to advocate for the rights and well-being of women and girls, focusing on preventing and responding to gender-based violence (GBV) and women empowerment.
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Neytay’s Role in the 16 Days of Activism
For Neytay, the 2024 16 Days of Activism is a landmark moment. This marks the organization’s first official involvement in the global movement. Neytay uses the opportunity to introduce itself to the wider community while calling others to join the cause. The organization aims to raise awareness about the challenges that women and girls face in Ethiopia and to take active steps toward ending gender-based violence and fostering empowerment.
Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, Neytay will focus on educating communities about the importance of gender equality and the urgent need to prevent GBV. Through workshops, seminars, and community dialogues, Neytay will engage with local leaders, parents, and young women to discuss the root causes of violence, the significance of education, and the role everyone can play in creating safe, supportive environments. By raising awareness around these critical issues, Neytay hopes to spark a cultural shift towards greater respect, equality, and safety for women and girls.
In addition, Neytay will advocate for stronger laws and better enforcement of protections against gender-based violence. Through collaborations with local authorities, schools, and community groups, Neytay will work to amplify the voices of survivors and ensure that their rights are respected. This includes pushing for improved legal frameworks, better access to support services and stronger protections for girls and women who are at risk of violence.
A Commitment to Lasting Change
Neytay’s efforts during the 2024 16 Days of Activism reflect the organization’s deep commitment to creating a society where women and girls are not only free from violence but, are also empowered to reach their fullest potential. The organization believes that empowerment is the key to lasting change and that every woman and girl has the right to shine, lead, and live a life free from fear and abuse.
As Neytay continues to grow and expand its reach, its participation in the 16 Days of Activism serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against gender-based violence is not just about protecting women, but about transforming society. By challenging harmful cultural norms, advocating for gender equality, and promoting systemic change, Neytay is helping to create a world where every woman and girl can come forth and shine—confident in their ability to shape their futures.
In 2024, Neytay’s involvement in the 16 Days of Activism will stand as a testament to the strength, resilience, and potential of women and girls everywhere—a call to action for everyone to contribute to building a world where gender-based violence is no longer tolerated.