We are a small but committed organization that integrates gender equity as a core value in our operations, storytelling, and partnerships. While our team is still forming, we have adopted a Gender Equality Plan that aligns with EU and Horizon Europe principles, scaled appropriately to our current stage.
We use AI-based learning tools for training, and track progress through lean but transparent processes. Our commitment will grow alongside our team.
Read the full GEP or contact ge****@*****************ve.org for more information.
Artisanal Collective Gender Equality Plan (GEP)
Effective Date: September 1, 2025
Next Review Date: September 1, 2027
Approved by: Charles Kao, Founder and Executive Director
1. Public Document & Top-Level Endorsement
- This Gender Equality Plan is a formal strategic document endorsed by Artisanal Collective™.
 - It is signed by the Executive Director and publicly posted on our website.
 - Note: Artisanal Collective™ is a small organization currently in startup phase. The GEP reflects a scaled approach suited to its evolving structure.
 
2. Dedicated Resources
- Gender Equality Officer (Designated): Jack Whelan, Head of ESG & Sustainability (ge****@*****************ve.org)
 - Resource Statement: While we do not yet have salaried staff beyond a single advisor, responsibility for implementation is assigned to leadership until operational staff are in place (targeted Q1–Q2 2026).
 - Training Infrastructure: Artisanal Collective holds a license for an AI-based ELMS platform. Training modules will be developed and delivered virtually using this tool.
 - External Expertise: Due to limited resources, no formal gender consultants are retained. Annual review will be conducted using an AI-assisted GPT review mechanism, documented and archived for compliance.
 
3. Data Collection and Monitoring
- “Staff” is defined as any contracted or salaried individual working in a programmatic or operational capacity for >30 days in a year.
 - Baseline data includes paid advisors, core contractors, and formal collaborators.
 - Annual review will document the gender breakdown of contractors, advisors, and future staff as they are added.
 - Key metrics: gender ratio by category, pay variance, participation in ELMS training.
 
4. Training and Awareness
- Platform: Training will be hosted and managed via the AI-enabled ELMS license.
 - Delivery Mode: All training will be virtual or asynchronous.
 - Scope:
- One foundational course for all current and future contributors (bias, equity, conduct)
 - Optional deeper modules for leadership and facilitators (rolled out post Q2 2026)
 
 
5. Thematic Priorities and Concrete Measures
A. Work-Life Balance & Organisational Culture
- Flexible virtual-first model
 - Contractor- and advisor-oriented well-being protocols
 
B. Gender Balance in Leadership & Decision-Making
- Gender representation goals will apply to advisory and program leadership as they are built (Q1–Q3 2026).
 
C. Gender Equality in Recruitment & Career Progression
- Equity lens will be applied to future recruitment; current stage has no formal hires
 
D. Integration of Gender in Programmatic Work
- Applied via storytelling projects, heritage inclusion, and field protocols
 
E. Measures Against Gender-Based Violence & Harassment
- Policies will apply to contractors, advisors, and contributors; training module to cover these topics
 
6. Implementation Timeline (2025–2027)
| Quarter | Milestone | 
|---|---|
| Q4 2025 | GEP publicly posted; orientation via ELMS module | 
| Q1 2026 | Gender baseline data gathered; limited training issued to advisors/contractors | 
| Q2 2026 | Leadership and operations staffing begins; ELMS rollout expanded | 
| Q3 2026 | Midpoint check-in via AI-assisted review; begin adaptive updates | 
| Q4 2026–Q1 2027 | Full review and year 2–3 planning | 
Appendices
Appendix A: Gender Data Baseline
- Total team members (2025): 1 paid advisor, 5 non-paid advisors
 - Estimated: 50% women or gender-diverse
 - Artisan participants and field collaborators: majority women (est. 65%+)
 
Appendix B: Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment Policy
- Applies to contractors, advisors, and future staff
 - Core principles:
- Respect, dignity, and inclusivity
 - Confidential complaint reporting via ge****@*****************ve.org
 - Remedial response by executive leadership
 
 
Appendix C: Training Plan and Curricula (via ELMS)
- ELMS-hosted foundational module:
- Topics: Gender equity, unconscious bias, safe workplace principles
 - Launch: Q1 2026
 - Duration: ~1 hour per module
 
 
Appendix D: Gender Expert Engagement
- External consultants will not be engaged until funding and scale justify it
 - GEP review will be conducted via structured prompts and documentation using ChatGPT in Year 1 and 2
 
Appendix E: Monitoring Template
- Data collected annually on:
- Gender distribution across roles
 - Completion of ELMS modules
 - Any gender-based complaints filed/resolved
 
 
