Week in pictures
Camilla Mattaliano Belforti (she/her) studied Philosophy, Politics & Economics (PPE) at VU Amsterdam and holds an MSc in Gender, Policy, and Inequalities from the London School of Economics. After finishing as a Research and Data Intern in Bangkok, she now will start as Research and Data Consultant at the UN Women Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, where she leverages data to advance women's economic empowerment. As she prepares for her new job she shares highlights from a week in her previous role as an intern.
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Mon Kicking Off with Data
Monday morning kicked off with a tuktuk ride, an iced Thai tea, and diving into data and Excel spreadsheets. As a Research and Data Intern for UN Women Asia and the Pacific, my main focus was turning numbers into meaningful stories. I spent hours analysing gender statistics across Asia and the Pacific, breaking down data to reveal the gender gaps that shape how we understand women’s economic empowerment. Every percentage and figure tell a story of inequality - one that needs to be addressed. It is this link between data and real-world change that keeps me motivated to dig deeper for better insights.
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Tue Moving Forward Together
In today’s interconnected world, teamwork is key. Tuesdays were packed with meetings with colleagues from across the region, and it’s amazing how everyone brings their unique perspectives. Sharing knowledge and finding common ground across different cultures and contexts is vital to what we do. We’re all working toward a shared goal: improving economic opportunities for women, which is a great reminder that progress doesn’t happen in isolation - it takes everyone’s effort to move forward together.
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Wed Bangkok’s pride parade
Wednesday took me into the heart of Bangkok’s Pride Parade 2024, proudly marching with the United Nations in Thailand. The energy was electric—a powerful reminder of the importance of continuing to push for LGBTQ+ rights.
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Thu Driving Action at the Feminist Finance Forum
On Thursday, I had the privilege of attending the Feminist Finance Forum 2024 at UN ESCAP. The forum brought together leaders and experts to drive dialogue and action towards closing the gender-finance gap in Asia and the Pacific. It was a day filled with inspiring conversations, sharing experiences, and exploring tools for change. The first step toward real change is putting these issues in the spotlight and learning from the people who are already leading the way.
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Fri Generating Knowledge through Collaboration
Friday felt like a victory. After months of work and collaboration, we finalised a major report aimed at informing discussions on "Beyond GDP" through a gender lens. Drawing on data from over 200 gender-relevant indicators, the report lays the groundwork for future actions on women’s economic empowerment. Wrapping up this project, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment, not only because of the report itself but for the collective effort that made it possible.
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Sat & Sun Exploring and Recharging
Weekends are for recharging. Whether it’s escaping the city for a quiet getaway, enjoying Bangkok’s vibrant markets, or taking a peaceful walk in one of its lush parks, I used Saturdays and Sundays to reset. Sometimes, it’s as simple as curling up with a good book, but these moments are essential to clearing my head and finding balance. Stepping back from the workweek gives me the space to reflect, relax, and recharge for the challenges ahead. Thailand’s beauty and vibrancy offer the perfect backdrop for these moments of personal connection and adventure!
magazine for humanities alumni december 2024