Dear HomeNet International Affiliates and Allies,

 

We are writing to share important news regarding a leadership transition within HomeNet International (HNI). After four wonderful years as International Coordinator, Janhavi Dave has decided to step down from her position marking a transition in HNI’s journey ahead.

 

“I would like to thank all of you for your unwavering support and the hard work we’ve done together to build and grow HomeNet International. I have cherished every moment spent working alongside all of you. I am very proud to be leaving my post with strengthened solidarity and a more amplified voice for home-based workers, having built alliances with other organizations and actively advocated for the rights and protections of home-based workers worldwide. While my changing life circumstances have convinced me that now is the time to step down from the work I have loved for many years, I also believe this is a great opportunity for HNI to embrace the next era with energetic new leadership,” Janhavi mentioned.

 

Since being nominated and endorsed by the Congress as the first International Coordinator in February 2021 during our virtual Congress, Janhavi has played a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing our global movement. She has fostered solidarity among home-based workers’ organizations, strengthened our organizational structures, and elevated our collective voice on various global platforms. Thank you, Janhavi, for your steadfast commitment. We know this is not a goodbye and that you will still have a role to play in the home-based workers’ movement.

 

While Janhavi transitions out of the International Coordinator role, she will be taking on an advisory position where her wisdom and experience will undoubtedly guide us in the future.

 

Now, we are happy to announce that Jemima Nyakongo will step into the role of Interim Coordinator, effective May 1, 2025. Jemima’s journey began as a basket weaver in Kenya, and she has since been a tireless advocate for home-based workers. Currently serving as the Organizing Secretary for the Rachuonyo Women Group and Chairperson of HomeNet Kenya, she was elected Treasurer of HNI at our physical Congress in April 2023. Over the past two years, Jemima has consistently shown her commitment to our mission and represented HNI with grace and strength in various forums.

 

The HNI Executive Committee has appointed Jemima for this interim role, and we are confident that her fresh ideas and energy will greatly benefit our organization. Her hands-on experience as a home-based worker and her understanding of the challenges we face will ensure that HNI continues to effectively advocate for the rights and needs of home-based workers globally.

 

As Jemima takes on her new role, she will work closely with the Executive Committee to implement the plans and decisions made during our Congress. Her responsibilities will also include managing the Secretariat, ensuring good governance, maintaining effective communication with affiliates, and upholding our financial and compliance obligations—while striving to amplify our collective voice.

 

In expressing her thoughts about this new opportunity and her commitment to HNI’s vision, Jemima said, “I would like to thank the Executive Committee and Secretariat for trusting me with this new assignment. I promise to do my best. I am dedicated to continuing the work we’ve started and will strive to elevate the visibility and recognition of home-based workers, ensuring that our solidarity grows stronger as we advance HNI’s vision together.”

 

Please join us in extending heartfelt congratulations to Jemima as she prepares to lead us into this exciting new chapter! We are filled with hope and enthusiasm for what lies ahead, and we wholeheartedly thank Janhavi for her unwavering dedication and support throughout her time with us.

 

In solidarity,

HNI Executive Committee