The city of Loja hosted the symposium “Voces que Inspiran, Mujeres que Lideran y Transforman” at the Santa Mariana de Jesús Educational Unit. The event was organized by the local Education, Sports and Culture District with the aim of highlighting and strengthening women’s leadership in various sectors of society. It brought together 450 students from 14 educational institutions along with authorities, teachers, and community leaders to discuss gender equity challenges and achievements.
Joaquín Zury Cueva, student and president of the Student Council at Antonio Peña Celi Educational Unit, opened the event with a reflection titled “Mujer, tú eres hermosa.” He urged for a change in perspective on commemoration: “It is not a celebration. Today is a day to remember… women who fought for respect, justice, and equality,” emphasizing the courage of those who faced discrimination.
Alexandra Jara, governor of Loja province, presented on “Impacto del liderazgo femenino en la política.” She said: “What we must focus on is that correct relationship between man and woman in the social sphere,” noting that historically human rights were initially considered only from a male perspective.
Johanna Sánchez, director of Education for Loja District, spoke about “Retos y oportunidades de la mujer en el contexto educativo.” She called for equal opportunities in classrooms and an end to cultural stereotypes. She also paid tribute to teachers balancing professional duties with family responsibilities: “Sometimes as teachers we have to put aside our family activities to continue supporting our students with the same affection,” she said. Sánchez highlighted soft skills and values such as sensitivity as valuable contributions women bring to society.
Students from indigenous communities contributed with their views on “Mujer y Proyecto de Vida: Oportunidades de las mujeres en la consecución de sus objetivos en la sociedad actual.”
Kerly Dayana Balverde Saca from Mushuk Rimak Intercultural Bilingual Community Educational Unit described her life project as based on “a spiritual future, respect for Pachamama (Mother Earth), respect for myself. Breaking schemes, challenging prejudices,” recognizing ongoing struggles against inequality even as women lead in science and technology fields.
Dayana Liseth Chalán Lozano from Manuel Macas Minga Intercultural Bilingual Community Educational Unit concluded by saying: “Being an indigenous woman is not a limitation; it is a strength. We represent culture, history, resistance and ancestral wisdom. Our identity does not limit us; it drives us.”
Organizers said the symposium provided an important space for intergenerational and intercultural dialogue on women’s empowerment as key to provincial and national development.
