I have been reflecting deeply on our time in New York, and it is honestly difficult to find the words to fully express our gratitude to you and to the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Loreto Generalate NGO, for the extraordinary opportunity you so generously gave us (Sr. Leonida Oriki, CJ and I). It was a privilege, that will help shape the future of Women for Women in Africa (WFWIA).
Attending the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) was, in many ways, overwhelming in the best possible sense. To be surrounded by such a powerful gathering of global voices, diplomats, leaders, advocates, and courageous young women, was both humbling and inspiring. There was a palpable sense of unity and sisterhood, a shared determination to keep pushing forward the cause of gender equity and justice.
At the same time, there was an undercurrent that was impossible to ignore, a quiet but real concern that some of the progress achieved over decades could be at risk in the current global climate. Sitting in those rooms, listening to women who have dedicated their lives to this work, we felt both the weight of that reality and immense admiration for their courage and perseverance. The ongoing commitment to the Beijing Platform for Action, and the strong leadership and encouragement from António Guterres, gave a renewed sense of hope and urgency.
For me personally, the experience stirred a deep emotional response. There were moments of sadness as we confronted the realities of conflict and violence faced by so many women, but equally, moments of genuine hope, especially in witnessing the energy, clarity, and determination of the younger generation. It felt like standing at the intersection of struggle and possibility.
Importantly, the experience affirmed, in a very real and powerful way, that the work we are doing through WFWIA and Wanawake kwa Wanawake is not only relevant, but deeply aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Our focus on education, skills training, and safe spaces is not just practical it’s transformational. It is how dignity is restored, how opportunity is created, and how generational change begins.
One of the strongest reflections we have taken forward is the importance of bringing boys and men more intentionally into this journey. We are now inspired to explore how we can better guide our male students in understanding gender equality and human rights, so they can become part of the solution and champions for change.
Despite the challenges we know lie ahead, particularly around growth and funding, we left with a deep sense of clarity and conviction. We are on the right path, and we are part of something much bigger, a global movement of women and allies working together to create lasting change.
Autor: Mary Campell, Women for Women in Africa
