The Women’s Leadership track of the Global Peace Convention highlighted the critical role of women in navigating the unique challenges of this time. The Plenary and Best Practices Workshop showcased the diversity and power of service-minded women working together towards peace.

Members of the Global Peace Women (GPW) International Advisory Council addressed the sobering realities of more than a year since the outbreak of the global pandemic, recognizing the heroic efforts of women around the world who supported families in efforts to promote the physical, mental and emotional well-being for all.

Dr. Junsook Moon, GPW Chairwoman

GPW Chairwoman Dr. Junsook Moon encouraged women to continue their selfless service for their families and communities. “How can we as women, as leaders contribute to opening of path to a brighter future?” she asked. She emphasized the essential and unique contributions of both men and women in creating families that cultivate healthy individuals and a peaceful world.

“Let us work together towards a common vision of a world where every woman, man, child and family can pursue their utmost potential in peace.”

Hon Lilian Samaniego, national senator of the Republic of Paraguay, called for more efforts to support women in leadership. “Women leaders serve as role models when they give their time and soul to the social causes of their communities,” she said.

Speakers Dr. Hajiya Amina Namadi Sambo, founder of I-Care Women and Youth, Dr. Ricafort, former Deputy Ministry of Higher Education in the Philippines, and Dr. Eva Latham, founder of Human Rights Teaching International in the Netherlands, emphasized the importance of advancing women leadership in the home and world. Dr. Sambo noted that while poverty has the “face of a woman,” when a woman is empowered, the entire family is lifted out of hunger, disease and conflict.

Hon Lilian Samaniego, national senator of the Republic of Paraguay, Dr. Hajiya Amina Namadi Sambo, founder of I-Care Women and Youth, Dr. Ricafort, former Deputy Ministry of Higher Education in the Philippines, and Dr. Eva Latham, founder of Human Rights Teaching International in the Netherlands (top to bottom)

“A mother never gives up and always meets challenges,” said Dr. Sambo. Dr. Nona Ricafort emphasized the role of women in sowing seeds of peace in her family. “The family is where our children’s character can sprout and grow.” Dr. Latham urged women to seize opportunities that challenges pose and seek ethical solutions. “We can make those challenges appear to go to very good sustainable solutions,” said Dr. Latham.

The Global Peace Women Best Practices Workshop showcased diverse peacebuilding efforts led by service-minded women and guided by a family-based approach.

Breakout rooms opened candid conversations with the women peace practitioners about complex issues including:

• Korean Reunification and Youth Activism
• Faith Leaders and Values-Based Peacebuilding
• Gang Violence and Drug Abuse Prevention and Intervention: The Unique Role of the Family and
• Community
• Uplifting and Empowering Women through Grassroots Education and Engagement of Men and Women
• Mental Health Support for Adolescents during the COVID19 Pandemic
• Raising Peacemakers, Restoring Community: Weaving Service and Kindness into Everyday Family Life

Nibia Pizzo, country leader of GPW Uruguay

“We really need to be human, love is part of values, it is part of human nature” summarized Nibia Pizzo, country leader of GPW Uruguay. Ms. Pizzo initiated a support hotline for adolescents and families during the COVID19 lockdowns in Uruguay.

The Women’s Leadership track covered broad ground with a strong call to action. “Together, with our collective strength of service, heart and care, we will get through these times, and we will create a brighter, greater future,” said Dr. Junsook Moon.