NY Metro WFWP members pose for a picture at a WIN event in the New Yorker.

Editor’s note: The article was originally written for WFWP’s 30th Anniversary Commemorative Book and shared in the newsletter to highlight this important milestone.

What are sisters like? This was the main question when I became a member of the Women’s Federations for World Peace New York Metro over 12 years ago. From outings, small groups, visits to each other, attending workshops together to supporting each other every step of the way. I found the true meaning of “sisterhood” and a sense of belonging in WFWP. I recall the many times Mrs. Beryl Green, the Chairwoman of WFWP New York Metro called me [regardless of the time of day…that’s how close my sisters and I were] to plan activities or brainstorm together or to change already planned activities or programs.

Over the years, we have become as close as can ever be through the ups and downs, the thick and thin, through celebrations, the losses of some of our members, the list goes on and on about my gratitude for being a member of WFWP New York Metro. My first major event with WFWP New York Metro was the “Ikebana” flower arrangement event in 2012. I did not think much of the event, but only wanted an environment where I could affiliate with others that had decided to help the world become a better place. For months, I kept the flower vase and my Ikebana flower arrangement in my living room. Each time I walked past the flower vase, I got a feeling of warmth, love, support and a gratitude for all that God has bestowed and allowed me to discover a new way of life: “living and loving for the sake of others.”

I have enjoyed the collaborations and activities of the larger WFWP USA national events, especially the Women’s Leadership event that I attended in Hamilton, Georgia. I almost hesitated not attending until Mrs. Green called me “Dr. Remi, you ARE going on this trip because I already informed Mrs. Angelika Selle that you will be there to represent the Young Professionals. “Yes Ma’am” I responded, and a few days later, I found myself at the Christian Camp located in Hamilton, Georgia where the retreat was to be held. Yes, I was certainly transformed amongst the many Godly women that were present and walked away with so much knowledge on leadership and the “Logic of Love.”

WFWP NY Metro at Mandela Day event at the UN

My other memorable “adventure” with WFWP was the first National Conference that I attended that was held at the Washington Times building. It was a joyous and momentous occasion that can never be forgotten. We had a busload of laughter from New York City until we arrived in Washington, D.C. There was never a dull moment on that trip to DC that year, and every year after! On the trip, I learned patience, endurance, perseverance, and community. Other activities have included a New York/New Jersey trip to WFWP’s founder’s home in Massachusetts where learning about spirituality, sisterhood, and leadership were the key lessons.

It has certainly been a wonderful 12 years, and I love and appreciate all my sisters at WFWP New York Metro as well as my national sisters. I especially want to thank the Chairwoman, Rev. Mrs. Beryl Green for all her care and support. Many times at 4W43rd street, people will walk up to me asking about Mrs. Green, or vice versa, asking Mrs. Green where I was? This is how being affiliated with the WFWP New York Metro has made me close in relationships with others. I would also like to thank Mrs. Angelika Selle for her leadership and to everyone at WFWP USA. God bless you all and continue to be the righteous Proverbs woman! Looking forward to the next 30 years together in love, support, and service to each other.

Dr. Remi Alapo

Member from Brooklyn, New York

Young professional coordinator, WFWP New York Metro