More than 250 men, women, and young people from around the globe came together for World Vision’s 14th Annual Strong Women Strong World Event in New York on November 30. They learned more about the plight of women and girls in the developing world, and what World Vision is doing about it.
In her keynote speech, First Lady of Rwanda, Jeannette Kagame said, “Women and girls are capable of bringing about significant change to their environment, despite obstacles that stand in the way of their advancement. If the existing impediments to women's advancement were removed from their paths, the impact of change could be more powerful."
President of World Vision U.S., Edgar Sandoval shared, "At World Vision, we believe in the power of women and girls to make a stronger, better world for families, communities, and nations. But to create a world where boys and girls, men and women enjoy the same rights, freedoms, and opportunities – to make that a reality – we all need to actively challenge the beliefs and practices that devalue women and girls."
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| "She Can" dramatic presentation |
In a powerful dramatic presentation, guests heard the story of a typical girl growing up in poverty in Africa - the many barriers she faces to reaching her full potential due to a lack of equal access and opportunity. Then one by one, these barriers were knocked down as remarkable women from World Vision shared exactly what is being done to change this (pictured left).“I am a girl. I could be your daughter. I could be your sister. I could be your niece. But I am a girl born into extreme poverty in the developing world. And this is the story of my life."
Other special guests and voices included: Dr. Debra Mesch, Women’s Philanthropy Institute, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy; Tracy Brunjes, radio personality/co-host of the Compassionate Achiever podcast; Patricia Heaton, Actor and World Vision Celebrity Ambassador; Lisa Jackson, Managing Partner, Imago Dei Fund; Margo Day, Vice President U.S. Education for Microsoft, retired; and Wé McDonald, solo artist, author, and equity advocate.
