Lilian's story
Lilian's story
My Name is Lilian
After graduating from our Change Agent programme, Lilian became the first female Sultan in her community, now leading efforts to mediate conflict and build lasting peace across her village.
My name is Lilian Kiden. I am 48 years old, a mother of eight and a farmer. Although I never had the chance to go to school, Women for Women International gave me the opportunity to join a leadership and advocacy training programme that changed my life. Now, many people know me, and my influence extends throughout my village and beyond. I have become a Change Agent and now serve as the Sultan (Chief) of the Mahad 11 community in Gimunu Boma, South Sudan.
After I graduated from the Women for Women International Change Agent programme in 2022, I started using my skills and experience to address problems in my community. Conflict was a major issue, so I decided to speak up and take action, even when it was difficult.
People noticed my efforts and chose me as Sultan, a role usually reserved for men and once considered out of reach for women.
Even though there have been peace agreements after years of fighting in South Sudan, the conflict has not stopped. Instead, the violence has shifted from the front lines into the villages. This change has brought soldiers into closer contact with local people, which has led to more tension between civilians and soldiers. This is the case in my village and in other villages in Yei County. Because there is an army barracks in Yei, I have often helped mediate conflicts between soldiers and civilians.
When a conflict breaks out, I engage in dialogue with both soldiers and senior army officials. This helps build a link between the local community and those in charge of dealing with soldiers who have committed serious offenses.
On January 14, 2025, a serious conflict broke out between Rumbek town and Bor city in the Lake States. I reported the incident right away, and the people involved were quickly arrested to stop things from getting worse. The court acted quickly and resolved the conflict.
I also help families work through conflicts, which can get worse if not addressed quickly. I bring everyone together to talk things out and highlight why it matters for men to be involved in finding solutions. It can be challenging, but after a few meetings, families usually accept my guidance and find peace again.
My experience in conflict resolution helps me mend family feuds and bring back harmony. Even relatives who once avoided each other can start talking and sharing meals again.
I also lead the Change Agents group in my village and actively support members in addressing various community issues. By fostering understanding and taking proactive steps, I help ensure that everyone remains focused and motivated toward our collective goals.
I have worked on many types of conflicts, including disputes between communities, family problems and disagreements over community water points. Each situation has its own challenges, like traveling long distances or facing hesitation from those involved. Still, I believe it is important to help create a peaceful community and do my best to bring people closer together.
WHEN THE WORLD’S ATTENTION MOVES ON, WILL YOU STAND WITH HER?
Support a woman survivor of war through our year-long Stronger Women, Stronger Nations programme. Your solidarity will help her use her voice, realise her power and rebuild her life.
Read more stories
Yasmin
subtitle:
Falsely imprisoned and left with trauma that stayed long after her release, Yasmin refused to let her past define her. With the support of Women for Women International’s Stronger Women, Stronger Nations programme in Palestine, she is learning new skills, rebuilding her confidence and daring to dream of a brighter future.
Tahreer
subtitle:
After losing her husband and son to the war in Gaza, Tahreer is striving to rebuild a life for her remaining children. Through psychosocial support sessions with Wefaq Association, supported by Women for Women International, she is finding small ways to cope, rebuild her confidence and nurture hope for her and her family's future.
Tahani
subtitle:
My name is Tahani Al-Muhtaseb. I am 53 years old, a mother of five, and a grandmother to six beautiful grandchildren. I have lived in my home for more than 30 years. It is the place where my children grew up, where memories were made, and where my life has unfolded. But for many years now, I have not been able to use my own front door.