UN CSW: WFWP SIDE EVENT ON "TAKING AIM AT THE MDGS

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Immediately following WFWP's March 18 luncheon to commemorate the 58th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), guests and visitors were ushered across the street into the United Nations Church Center's Hardin Room, where a large gathering was anticipating a panel discussion on the topic, "Stories of Women's Leadership: Achievement and Challenges Toward Achieving Post-2015 Agenda Goals."

At this CSW parallel event-co-sponsored by WFWP International, WFWP USA, and the Sound Essence Project-ladies representing diverse backgrounds, leadership abilities, and experiences reflected on their progress toward fulfilling the UN's Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Mrs. Alexa Ward, deputy director of WFWP's UN Office, served as mistress of ceremonies and introduced each speaker with a short career background. She noted that Mrs. Carolyn Handschin, president of WFWP Europe and director of WFWP's UN Office in Geneva, Switzerland, is the mother of seven children and several grandchildren. We marveled at how well she juggles such a large family and busy schedule.

Mrs. Handschin spoke on changing the global culture around the world to facilitate the progress of women's leadership. In some cultures, she said, traditional views and methods hinder both women's rights and the improvement of living standards.

Sachiko Kimura, project director and overseas volunteer for WFWP Zambia, went on an aid mission to Zambia over 20 years ago and was saddened by the mortality rate among children. She now teaches about the food value of soybean powder and instructs mothers how to effectively feed their children. She provides the moms with free transportation to WFWP's School of Economics.

Arceli Hernando, director of student affairs at Bohol Island State University, serves the Philippine university's 14,000 students. She assists students in cases of rape, abortion, extortion, and other problems, and is involved with getting a "Café Mother's Heart Network" implemented to counsel college youths.

Ms. Greta Anderson is a young adult volunteer with service experience in Israel, Palestine, Uganda, and the U.S. She spoke with such energy and purity regarding her thoughts and feelings toward the disparities she sees in the world as a young woman. Ms. Anderson asked herself the question, "Why is the world a broken place?" and then lived for six months in Israel's dangerous places. Among the ruins there, she vowed to design her own program to create peace, alleviate poverty, and give a voice to the voiceless.

In that room that afternoon, there was so much wisdom and information released from these fantastic women! Cameras were clicking; cards, hugs, and tears were exchanged; promises were made; and sisterhood relationships were created.