In celebration of CLGF’s 30th Anniversary, we are honoured to spotlight the inspiring stories of 30 trailblazing women in local government from across the Commonwealth, all members of the Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network. These interviews celebrate their groundbreaking contributions to gender equality and their transformative impact on building inclusive, empowered communities.

Jeannette Nyiramasengesho (Rwanda)

Jeannette Nyiramasengesho is a passionate advocate for women’s rights and gender equality with over 20 years of experience in championing informal workers' rights. As Chairperson of the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA), Jeannette was committed to promoting women’s leadership and empowering marginalized communities, key priorities she will continue to champion in her leadership role in Ngororero District (Rwanda).  Her journey in local government began with a desire to advocate for women, especially those in the informal sector, and to ensure the inclusion of informal traders, particularly women and girls, in local economic policies and decisions.

Read her full interview here

Anita Shingade (India)

Anita Shingade is the Sarpanch of Borala Gram Panchayat in Amravati District, Maharashtra (India).  She took office in 2021, and under her leadership, Borala has seen notable progress in infrastructure and social development. Key achievements include construction of sub-roads to assist farmers, infrastructure and employment generation, as well as livelihood support for widows through NGO partnerships. She was inspired to enter local government after witnessing the power of women's self-help groups to fostered financial literacy, women's organization, and increased women’s status within the household.

Read her full interview here

Hana Halalele (New Zealand)

Hana Halalele is the Deputy Mayor Waitaki (New Zealand) and the CEO of Oamaru Pacific Island Trust. She is a committed community leader and social work professional with over 25 years of experience driving positive change. Passionate about community well-being and social justice, she applies social work theory to strengthen community capability and lead grassroots action. While she  didn't initially aspire to run for local elections, community building and development have been a central part of her journey. Her election as the first Pasifika councillor for Waitaki in 2019 was significant, and she works to bring a Pasifika voice to local government and support the broader community.

Read her full interview here

CLGF 30th Anniversary Commemoration

the Commonwealth Women in Local Government Network (ComWLG) is championing women leaders from all corners of the Commonwealth. You can also view the full set of interviews on the 30 for 30 page

We are active across social media, and we have a dedicated facebook page where you can network with others interested in women in leadership and women’s political empowerment.