Gendes

Shifting the conversation on masculinity, together

Founded in 2008, Gendes is an organization that works from the perspective of gender, with an emphasis on masculinity, in order to inspire reflection, intervention, research, and advocacy. The goal is to promote and strengthen equal gender balance within relationships, working with men to question their role in a gender-biased, violent social system. Over 700 men have taken part in two-hour weekly group sessions, in which participants are guided in constructing a road map to agree upon actions with their partners in order to prevent further violence. Through coordinated work with feminist organizations, founder Mauro Antonio Vargas Urías seeks to create an alternative group culture among men as a means to generate individual change.

As a member of the Kering Foundation’s community of social entrepreneurs, Gendes was selected by a jury of professionals and experts to receive support from the Kering Foundation, including a 6-month incubation program, professional mentoring, and access to the Kering Foundation’s network. This ground-breaking project, a tailored model for Latin America, marked the first time the Kering Foundation has awarded a social enterprise grant to an initiative working directly with men on the topic of masculinity.

3 out of 4 women whose partners have attended Mauro Antonio Vargas Urías’ programs report reduced violence and feeling increasingly safe in their relationship.

700 men have already participated in group sessions.

"For me these violent acts had always been normal, since it was what I had learned at home. Here I realized that they were actually violent behaviors. Fellow group members taught me how to resolve conflict"

Beneficiary, Gendes