Who we are

Groundswell was founded by a small team of women from the UK, the US and Myanmar with over 50 years of collective international development experience. United by a passion for empowering women leaders as drivers of transformative change, we were motivated by the devastating impact of aid cuts on gender equality initiatives. Women and girls and disproportionately impacted by gender-based violence, conflict, poverty and climate change.

We have seen how systemic and deeply engrained gender inequality and discrimination hold back women and girls from achieving their full potential. We have also seen the brilliance, courage and commitment of local women leaders. These women leaders can have an incredible impact in their communities. With targeted support, their impact can be transformative. Now more than ever we need women leaders to drive change in a positive and compassionate way.