A Decade of Courage: Intersectional Feminist Collective Marks 10 Years in Rosendal

This time, in the serene surroundings of Rosendal, they reunited to reflect on a decade of shared struggle, growth, and relentless advocacy for human rights and women´s rights.

Founded in 2015, the collective emerged as a safe, transformative space for women committed to challenging patriarchy, authoritarianism, and exclusion in some of the world’s most difficult contexts. Over the past decade, its members have navigated personal and political upheavals, repression, exile, and burnout. Yet they remained steadfast in their mission.

Now, as they marked this anniversary, their reflections were both humble and bold. “It’s important to learn that this kind of opportunity should not be taken for granted,” one member said. “Many WHRDs never get the chance to experience something like this. So be grateful. Don’t take it for granted.”

Their collective advice to fellow human rights defenders is both practical and profound:

• Listen deeply and hold space for both yourself and for others.

• Feminism is not just a theory, they reminded each other. It’s a day-to-day practice.

• Stay grounded in your principles and never lose your authenticity.

• Value the network. “We believe in the term ‘intersectionality’—everyone comes from different backgrounds. Be patient. It’s easy to leave, but harder to stay.

More than a celebration, the gathering in Rosendal was a renewal of purpose. These women reminded each other and all of us that their fight is a journey taken together, rooted in solidarity.

“This is how we fight,” they said. “And this is how we win.”