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Building Peace through Partnership

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Building Peace Through Partnership

Celebrating 25 years of impact for women and 6 years of powerful partnership

On Saturday 14th March, amidst the energy of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York City, we brought together an extraordinary group of global leaders, advocates, and changemakers to mark a milestone occasion: 25 years of the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. A quarter-century dedicated to the belief that sustainable peace is impossible without the leadership of women.

Amidst wars raging on in the Middle East and Sudan, the event was not just about looking back on the progress made but also a powerful call to action. The evening was filled with a shared urgency to protect and advance the rights of women in conflict-affected regions. Guests were honoured with an inspiring keynote address by Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee.

Leymah Gbowee presents keynote address. Credit: Margarita Corporan Photography
Leymah Gbowee presents keynote address. Credit: Margarita Corporan Photography

As someone who has led peace movements, Leymah challenged the room to think deeper about the role we can all play, reminding us that,

Peace is not the absence of war, peace is the presence of conditions that give way to dignity.

 

Her words resonated throughout the room, serving as a vital reminder that our work at Women for Women International isn't just about ending violence - it’s about building the foundations of health, education, and economic stability that allow a woman to live with the dignity she deserves.

While the evening focused on global policy and grassroots activism, it also celebrated the vital role our supporters play in advancing our mission and creating a more peaceful world. We were thrilled to present the Corporate Impact Award to global partner Jimmy Choo, marking a remarkable six-year commitment to our mission. The award was accepted on behalf of the brand by Jaime Wynn, President of Jimmy Choo North America. Jimmy Choo’s leadership, values and sustained commitment have significantly strengthened the work of Women for Women International over the last six years.

Women for Women International’s U.S. Board of Advisor Mona Malik (left) presents Jaime Wynn (right) with the Corporate Impact Award. Credit: Margarita Corporan Photography
Women for Women International’s U.S. Board of Advisor Mona Malik (left) presents Jaime Wynn (right) with the Corporate Impact Award. Credit: Margarita Corporan Photography

Their commitment has enabled more than 1,400 women access the knowledge and skills they need to rebuild their lives, and this sustained dedication serves as a blueprint for how the private sector can champion long-term, meaningful change. Jaime shared on the night:

At Jimmy Choo, empowering women is not a campaign; it is a commitment founded in our values.

As we look toward the next 25 years of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, the message from New York is clear: the path to peace cannot be without women at the table. With the continued support of our global community and partners like Jimmy Choo, we remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that every woman survivor of war has the power to rebuild their lives and determine their future, creating a more equal, peaceful and prosperous world for everyone.

Find out more

From leading non-violent movements and advocating for human rights to rebuilding societies in the aftermath of conflict, women peacebuilders bring unique perspectives and lasting solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges. This blog highlights the work of inspiring women who have shaped peace efforts across the globe and reminds us why women’s leadership is essential to achieving sustainable, inclusive peace.


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Imagining Peace

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We asked women living through war and conflict: ⁠“If there were peace in your country today, what’s the first thing you would do?” ⁠Their answers are simple, yet profound - rebuilding homes, sleeping without fear, growing a small business or hugging loved ones without worry. ⁠From Gaza to South Sudan, from the DRC to Ukraine, these voices remind us what true peace means: safety, dignity and the chance to rebuild life with hope. ⁠


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Women are deeply affected by conflict yet remain excluded from peace negotiations. This blog highlights why women’s leadership and inclusion are essential to building lasting, inclusive peace.


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