As an organisation founded and led by women, the well-being of women and girls has always been at the forefront of our work at Adara. Across our programmes, we tackle some of the biggest challenges faced by women and girls living in rural and remote settings.
We are driven by our vision of a world in which women and girls have access to quality health, education and essential services, no matter where they live. Because we know when we invest in girls, we create a more equal, just and hopeful world – for everyone.
October 11 marks International Day of the Girl Child – a day to celebrate girls everywhere and spotlight not only the challenges girls face, but also the solutions they bring. This year’s theme, “The girl I am, the change I lead,” calls on all of us to lend our voices to stand with girls and support their leadership.
In the spirit of this theme, we’re celebrating some of the amazing women who make our work possible. Sue, Jocelyn, and Megan Evans are mother and daughter philanthropists who have supported Adara through their family foundation, the Paskeville Foundation, since 2022.
We spoke to The Paskeville Foundation about International Day of the Girl Child and why investing in women and girls is close to their hearts.
October 11 is International Day of the Girl Child. You give to a number of organisations that support causes focused on women and girls, including Adara. Why is this important to you?
We have seen firsthand the impact that educating women has on a whole family’s education and quality of life. We’ve met women who have been able to lift their family out of poverty when they were empowered, educated and supported. We have all been on an Insight trip with another of our partners, Opportunity International Australia, and have witnessed and felt the collective support of women enabling each other to grow and learn, once given the opportunity.
What drew you to support Adara and our mission?
The maternal and newborn work in Uganda was a key reason why we chose to support Adara. Our foundation believes that a healthy start to life gives a person an overall better life journey.
After first engaging with Adara, we soon realised that your communication with supporters is informative, meaningful and frequent. We were also impressed that your admin costs are covered by the business side of the organisation, Adara Partners.
What does meaningful impact look like to you when it comes to supporting girls and women?
Seeing women empowered to believe in themselves and the skills and wisdom they have to offer their communities and families.
What advice would you give to others who might be considering how they can support women and girls through giving?
Find a cause that you are passionate about and aligns with your values. We start with a small donation while we get a feel for an organisation and develop a relationship with them and then grow it from here, or move on if we feel they don’t align with our values.
Sue, you recently completed a trek in Humla and managed to fit in visiting some of Adara’s partner communities on your travels! What was it like seeing the communities you support firsthand? Were there any particular moments that stood out for you?
My visit to Humla region and Adara’s partner communities was humbling. The region is spectacular in scenery and simple in living. We were met by Pema and Thrinley, two incredible women whose passion for their work with Adara oozes from them.
Our group was able to visit a primary school and birthing centre in Kermi village. The facilities were basic, but the support for children and mothers was immense. Sixty-four children greeted us with a gift of flowers and beautiful smiles when we arrived – an unforgettable, heartfelt welcome.
The following day we trekked to Yalbang School. We were met and welcomed by 300 students – beaming with joy and pride. Our visit here allowed us into the hostel after school, where kids were having fun and laughing together. Teachers proudly showed us the new science block and computer rooms and shared their gratitude to supporters for helping equip their school with up-to-date facilities.
My heart is full seeing the work of Adara and knowing our support is truly valued. It was incredible seeing the impact of our support firsthand.
