| Abstract: | Attempts to engender post-apartheid South Africa using a Canadian model of gender-based analysis training occurred through agreements between Status of Women Canada and the Office of the Status of Women in South Africa. Using a retrospective lens, I explore how my experience of delivering and evaluating such gender-based analysis training in South Africa holds moments of hope and solidarity yet, is also restricted by issues of power, representation and agency. Throughout this lived experience, the multi-faceted issues surrounding privilege and power as they are situated within race, gender, identity, place and location are explored. I question the state practices of gender mainstreaming, and whether or not transnational feminism can challenge and create changes within such a practice. The article includes data from a gender-based analysis training session and its subsequent evaluation, along with anecdotes, suggestions and a critique. With the push by national and international machineries to mainstream gender, this article offers a timely and critical perspective on the implementation and facilitation of such practices. |
