laSHErete

LaSHErete is a decentralized global network and community established to advance gender equity in science, technology, engineering, arts, and entrepreneurship. It seeks to connect women and gender-diverse people across disciplines and regions to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and advocate for inclusive funding and policy environments. The initiative emphasizes mentorship, skill-sharing, and open collaboration, prioritizing peer leadership and local agency rather than centralized control.

Etymology and concept: The name blends la, the feminine article in several Romance languages, with SHE and rete, a root from networking terms in various languages, signaling a network built around women's leadership. Recognizing diversity, laSHErete operates as a federated, non-hierarchical platform composed of local chapters, online communities, and community hubs coordinated through shared practices and resources.

History: LaSHErete traces its origins to online forums and regional meetups in the early 2010s, where researchers, educators, and organizers proposed a durable framework to connect women across sectors. It formalized as a federated network by 2018, expanding through partnerships with universities, nonprofits, and community groups.

Activities: The network runs local chapters that host events, mentorship programs, and collaborative projects; an online platform provides resource repositories, case studies, and a directory of women-led initiatives; an annual summit and a small-grants program support cross-disciplinary collaborations.

Governance and reception: Governance relies on rotating representation from chapters and a coordinating council, with practices intended to ensure transparency and accountability. Funding comes from donations, grants, and sponsorships. Critics note uneven chapter visibility and reliance on volunteers, while supporters highlight increased mentorship and cross-sector collaboration.