Ever since I joined WOW in 2004,  I have attend the CSW meetings.  It is an amazing time to be surrounded by women from all over the world.  Most of these women are in NY for the two weeks of the conference to lobby their delegation as well as make connections with other women and NGO’s that share common interests.
        Every year a topic is chosen to focus on.  Here is a taste of what you can expect.  I have taken this description from the UN web site.

 15-year review of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) and the outcomes of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly (2000)
       In March 2010, the Commission on the Status of Women will undertake a fifteen-year review of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the outcomes of the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly.   Emphasis will be placed on the sharing of experiences and good practices, with a view to overcoming remaining obstacles and new challenges, including those related to the Millennium Development Goals.  Member States, representatives of non-governmental organizations and of UN entities will participate in the session.  A series of parallel events will provide additional opportunities for information exchange and networking.
              The General Assembly is expected to mark the 15th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in a commemorative meeting during CSW. 

 You may want to visit this link http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/beijing15/index.html to read more.

        CSW runs for two weeks but it is not necessary for you to spend that much time in NY to get a benefit from this conference.  We would recommend that your first experience be two to four days.  It is expensive to be in the city and the UN can be a little overwhelming. We will find housing for all WOW women so we can be together. The UN is a short walk from Grand Central Station and the Hotel we use is close to both locations.

        There is nothing happening at the UN during the weekend.  If you want the weekend to be part of your trip you will be on your own to enjoy the city.

         So, what will WOW be doing this year at the CSW?
 We always try and meet with the US coalition of NGO’s.  They will be making plans for a presentation to the USA delegation. Being part of this meeting is critical.

 We will be spending time listening to floor debate and participating when we can.

 We are always renewing friendships with old friends and organizations we have met over the years.

 We love meeting and eating in the UN dining room overlooking the East River.
 We are planning three Parallel events.  These are happening  across the street from the UN

1. Women’s Health: We have been active in Geneva with Women’s health issues. This will be a panel talking about Motherhood mortality in developing countries and the impact of climate change on Women and their access to health care.
2. Peaceabilities, A Violence Recovery program for children: We will Partner with BYU faculty with their ground breaking program on Violence and how to help Children recover from the effects.
3. Education Girls in developing Countries: Three years ago we invited Diana Haskins from Afghan Academy of Hope and her guest Serena from Afghanistan.  She will join us again with other friends such as Patti Liston From Reach the Children and Carol Ugochukwu freom Nigeria and director of WOW Africa, to speak about and how one woman can make a difference.

If you have a desire to be with us, let this year be the year you come.  Registration is limited only because of the logistics of hosting too many new members.  I will take the first 10 who let me know  they are ready to book plane fare.  As of Dec 18th we have three slots open for new members. Let me know.  Registration is open NOW but will close as the conference gets closer.    wow@wowinfo.org

Susan Dayton,

President Worldwide Organization for Women

http://www.hamarey.com/media/story/washington-dc-metropolitan-area-somali-community-welcomed-mrs-asha-haji-elmi-winner-2009-clint

http://www.somaliweyn.org/pages/news/Oct_09/23Oct24.html

http://midnimo.com/view.php?id=2544

Thank You, so so much, I feel my heart, mind and soul invigerated.  I feel Changed

Wonderful opportunities to learn more about WOW and to meet women who are working to do so much good. Good handouts. Lovely lunch and speakers. Thank you all for the tremendous amount of effort you went to, to provide us with this opportunity. I am looking forward to more!

Excellent presentations, How can I help? Judeth

Appropriate stories, presentations that teach, emphasize and update us to current conditions, problems, needs and opportunities.

I thought the conference was great. Incredibly inspiring to have these good women speak about the things they do.

Wonderful! I was truly touched: Marianne

It was inspiring

The day was really beneficial and inspiring. I learned a lot and how every small thing contributes and can be the cause of a positive snowball effect.
Due to this conference i will donate either physical or financial contributions.

Valerie Hudson was very interesting. She brought up questions and points that have never crossed my mind. Charlotte Hamblin showed how big a difference a handful of people can make and how easy it can be to serve and give

I am grateful to have been exposed to WOW and also grateful such an organization exists, Favorite Speaker Carol Ugochukwu

Many great points were provoked in me as I listened to the speakers. I felt so privileges in my life to realize how much one person can truly do.

This was a great conference, Thank you

I think you guys did a great job. I learned a lot.

I would really like to get involved somehow. Kim
International level conference, Award luncheon of the highest quality, refinement, beauty, fabulous speakers, well organized and very professional. excellent videos and power points.

I think that there was fabulous information relayed. I love that there were stories told and Inspiring experiences shared. I have been able to work in the Philippines and orphanages, woman’s shelters and also in China. These stories touched me because I have also seen firsthand the problems that women are facing. I love that you have given us hope. That each of us as individuals CAN make a difference. I would like to know more about your internships or if there is any way we could ravel with you to these countries and be able to give our help there. Whitney

IDEAS FOR Now and next time:

Contact information and name of attendees: We will be sending information out to all WOW members, Many of you joined at the conference. We will be sending a monthly news letter to members and then posting information from the speakers on the blog

More displays tables of ongoing WOW activities: The only thing keeping us from putting up more displays was man power. With your help the next conference will be even better.

More interactive sessions: We had no idea the interest in this conference. Next time we will have work sessions. Great suggestion!

More time to make connections with others and to network: Great Idea, we will incorporate this into the planning

Problem solving and brainstorming: We hope to be getting information out to you about meeting in small groups and finding ways you can contribute to issues you learned about. Visit this site often!

Odgen, Utah    The Worldwide Organization for Women in partnership with Weber State University recently concluded ‘Women and their Worldwide Influence for Peace’, a conference which highlighted women around the world working for peaceful resolutions to conflict. Conference events began in Utah on October 7th and will end in Washington D.C October 17th.

 Asha Hagi Elmi Amin, the keynote speaker at the conference was awarded the Worldwide Organization for Women’s Women and their Influence for Good award at an Award’s Luncheon held in the Weber State University Ballroom on October 10^th.  She spoke during the luncheon about the need for WOW’s three pillars; education, advocacy and humanitarian work in order for the world to find peace for families. The conference was sponsored by WOW and Weber State University, the Department of Geography, the Women’s Study Program and the Diversity Office.  

 Asha Hagi Elmi Amin founded Save Somali Women and Children (SSWC) a woman run non-governmental humanitarian organization in Mogadishu in 1992. SSWC works to create a safe and sustainable situation for women by helping them overcome marginalization, violence and poverty in their communities. It is a non-profit organization that functions under the belief that through their own efforts as well as with help from local and international allies, women can transform their own lives and their communities. Amin has been involved for many years in peace negotiations and has met in recent months with US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton. Amin was recently honored in New York City at the 2009 Clinton Global Initiative on Thursday September 24, 2009.  She was awarded one of six 2009 Clinton Global Citizen Awards which recognizes remarkable individuals for their leadership in improving the lives of people around the globe. 

 Other speakers during the daylong Conference included:

Valerie Hudson, the author of Bare Branches and a Professor of Political Science at Brigham Young University.  Hudson  presented findings from her research called WomanStats. She has spent seven years studying the connection between the treatment of women and the peacefulness of nations. Her insight and vast experience gives a better understanding of the need to speak out for those who are marginalized in society.

 Afton Beutler, Vice President for International Affairs for the Worldwide Organization for Women in Geneva. Beutler is involved in: humanitarian projects, advocacy for women, children and families, issues of health, peace, human rights and climate change, the Eleanor Roosevelt Project on behalf of WOW and the Geneva internship program. New York UN Representative, Suvi Hynynen along with some of the Geneva interns  shared their experiences about being part of the advocacy and educational process at the UN as a positive influence for change.

 Carol Ugochukwu, the current Executive Director of WOW-Africa. Ugochukwu strongly advocates for community and self development projects. Ugochukwu was elected the State President and National Vice-President for the National Council of Women’s Societies of Nigeria. Ugochukwu was instrumental in building a bridge in her village of Ozubulu.

 Ramita Shrestha, the Manager for ‘JOY Foundation-Nepal.’ Shrestha takes a proactive stance in improving the lives of women and children in her home country of Nepal.  Through the ‘JOY Foundation-Nepal’ she organizes eye and health camps for rural Nepalese. She began her work with the Nepalese community by actively engaging the youth in after school computer literacy programs. She has worked with women from her village of Sankhu on the outskirts of Kathmandu to empower them through education and self reliance workshops.

 Jackie Hunlow, founder of the Mothers’ Legacy Project.  Hunlow is on the National Board of American Mothers Inc. and created the Mothers’ Legacy Project, as a living collection of written, oral and visual stories honoring mothers. As an author and artist, Hunlow spoke about the importance of women telling their stories and  addressed how to build strength in our children and peace at that foundational point.

 Charlotte Hamblin, philanthropist. Charlotte and her husband saw a need in the city of Mozambique and decided to do something about it. Over the last three years they have helped countless girls to get an education through their humanitarian projects. Hamblin discussed her work in Mozambique, including how getting sewing machines into the hands of women and paying for the production of school uniforms has opened doors for girls to go to school.

 Other activities associated with the WOW conference included: a literacy event Thursday October 8^th in conjunction with Global Literacy Day where Susan Dayton, President of WOW and Carol Ugochukwu, Current Executive Director of WOW Africa were at Glendale Middle School in Salt Lake City. to  share inspirational stories about the education of women. Bags of books were provided by First Book, Utah Children’s Reading Foundation Reading Tree and Harmons.  This event was partnered by the Salt Lake Community Action Program, the Children’s Reading Foundation and the Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office of Education Partnership. On Friday, October 9^th, WOW members participated in the Diversity Conference at Weber State University.

 The Conference will continue to Washington D.C. Monday October 12^th through Saturday October 17^th, where Amin will do a series of meetings, presentations and fundraising events at Georgetown University and George Washington University. One of the key lectures and discussions will take place from 5:45 to 8:50 p.m. October 14^th at the Georgetown University Law Center where she will be hosted by the International Law Faculty.

Somali Ambassador for Peace, Asha Hagi Elmi visited Utah by invitation of Worldwide Organization for Women

The Conference was co-sponsored by Weber State University, Geography Department, Womens’ Studies, & Diversity Office and addressed the topic  “WOMEN AND THEIR WORLDWIDE INFLUENCE FOR PEACE”

Asha was the Guest Speaker at the Conference Awards Luncheon, Saturday October 10th where she received the “Women and their Influence for Peace” Advocacy Award.  Asha also spoke  at BYU;  UVU; and at the Salt Lake City Library, which was sponsored by the U of U and the Mayor’s Office of Diversity and Human Rights

Asha Hagi Elmi has been battling hardship and war since she was very young.  A citizen of Somalia, she has raised her young family in the midst of war.  Unlike many, she has spoken out and continues under the hardest of situations, to organize and advocate for women and children from her war torn country.  Currently sitting at the peace table and advising the US Secretary of State, Asha shared her insights on peace and the need for WOW’s three pillars of advocacy,  educational opportunity  and humanitarian work if the world is to find peace for its’ families.

 Asha Hagi has dedicated her life to gaining a better and more peaceful future for her war-torn country, Somalia. At great personal risk, she has fought for women to have a voice in the decisions that affect them. She has mobilized women in the cause of peace across clan and political divides and continues to play a vital role in mediating across warring clans in the on-going peace process. Women in Somalia are in a much stronger position today because of her courage, persistence and compassion. 



Born in 1962, Asha Hagi graduated in economics from Somalia National University and holds a Master’s degree in business administration from the US International University in Africa.

Asha Hagi co-founded in 1992, and is the current Chair of, Save Somali Women and Children (SSWC), which works for a safe and sustainable Somalia by supporting women to overcome marginalization, violence and poverty in their communities. SSWC has seven paid staff and nine volunteers. A large part of the humanitarian funding comes directly from the Somali community around the world as well as from international organizations and individual donors. 




Representing the women of Somalia
during the Arta peace talks in 2000, Hagi founded, together with other women, the Sixth Clan, the clan of women, to complement the traditional five Somali Clans which are all male-dominated. This became the first time women were represented in a peace process in Somalia. She played a similar role in the Mbagathi Conference in Nairobi (2002-2004), which gave birth to the Transitional Federal Government and the Transitional Federal Parliament, of which Hagi became a member. 

In both cases the participation of women in these conferences played a crucial role in their success; not only did the women represent a broader interest of the Somali citizens, compared to the often very narrow political positions of the men. They were also able to do ’shuttle diplomacy’ between the antagonistic factions of the traditional five clans. 

Among the women’s achievements through the idea of the Sixth Clan are: taking women to the high negotiation table with their own identity (Sixth Clan) and as equal partners in decision making, a 12% quota for women representation in the Transitional Federal Parliament, introduction of fair gender formatting (he /she) in the charter language the creation of a Ministry for Gender and Family Affairs, and a decree by the Prime Minister of the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia ensuring a 30% quota for women in the district and regional councils, in national commissions, local committees and conferences.

The recent development in Somalia and Hagi’s role in the peace process:

Late in 2006, events in Somalia took a dramatic turn for the worse. There were two factions in the Transitional Federal Government, which had contrary views relating to peace dialogue or military action involving the Ethiopians. In November 2006, while a group, including Hagi, favoring the former was negotiating with the Islamic Courts Union, which effectively ruled Mogadishu and much of Somalia, the latter was inviting in the Ethiopian army. The Ethiopians took Mogadishu at the end of December, with the deaths of around 1,000 people and widespread destruction of the city. By April 2007, more than 350,000 people had fled the city. 

The current situation effectively prevents Hagi, who has spoken out against this development on the global media, from returning to Mogadishu, so that she is now based in Nairobi. However, her organization SSWC is seeking to give relief in Mogadishu to those who remained, distributing food and hygiene kits to women and children.



Since May 2008, Asha Hagi’s focus is on the UN sponsored peace dialogue between the Transitional Federal Government and the Alliance Re-liberation of Somalia in Djibouti, where she is a member of the High Level Political Committee in the Djibouti Peace and Reconciliation Talks.

In the peace talks, Hagi represents a balanced position between the different political interests. However, she does not give way on her most important principle: the need for reconciliation and an inclusive, non-violent political process. Her role requires a lot of courage and is putting her in considerable danger, even outside Somalia. 
Further activities:

Asha Hagi is a core group member of the Leaders Project, established in 2002, that has brought together more than 300 women leaders from around the world. She is also a member of the Pan-African Parliament in Johannesburg. She is a member of the 21 Peace Commissioners from Africa of the Inter-Faith Action for Peace in Africa (IFAPA), and a Board Member of the Africa Peace Forum (APF) and the International Resource Group on Security and Small Arms in the Horn of Africa Region. 





Asha Hagi has received a number of awards for her human rights and peace-building work. In 2001, she was made an ‘Ambassador for Peace’ by the Interreligious and International Federation For World Peace. In 2005, she received the Blue Ribbon Peace Award from the Women Leadership Board of the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, and the first award of ‘Women of Substance’ by the African Women Development Fund. In 2006, she received the ‘Tombouctou / Women Peacemaking Award’ from Femmes Africa Solidarity.

OTHER SPEAKERS AT WOW CONFERENCE

Valerie Hudson is on faculty at BYU.  Author of the book, Bare Branches, her work on women and their treatment by governments has made headline news.  She has linked world peace with the treatment of women by governments.  She discussed findings from her research and answered questions about her work. Knowledge is power;  her insights gave a better understanding of why we need to speak out for those who continue to be oppressed.

Afton Beutler represents  the Worldwide organization for Women in Geneva as the Vice President for International Affairs.  Besides overseeing humanitarian efforts,  she has developed and managed the WOW intern program, training over 26 young adults in the workings of the United Nations and setting up projects and panels in a variety of venues at the Human Rights Council and HO side events.  Currently the Co Convener for the NGO CSW committee on Women’s Right to Health, she discussed ways that our voices can truly be a positive influence for change and shared important work being done by the WOW interns in Geneva and how you might help.

Ramita Shrestha.  Since 2004, Ramita has managed a small technology center for rural villagers to gain access to critical content for development. Despite civil war in Nepal during 2005 and 2006, Ramita was able to keep her center functioning without any external funding. Today, her center attracts up to 50 remote villagers (who often make the 3-hour trek one way). As an active community mobilizer, Ramita dedicates her life to support women’s groups, small entrepreneurs, and farmer cooperatives by providing access to localized content suited for Himalayan livelihoods and in various Nepalese languages.  Her topic for the conference was ”Empowerment of Nepalese Rural women for their Rights”.

Carol Ugochukwu “Carol Ugochukwu is currently the Executive Director WOW-Africa  encouraging community and self-development projects. Prior to her retirement, Carol held several positions  in the Civil Service including, Sole Administrator of a local Government and Permanent Secretary/Director-General.    She was elected the State President and National Vice President of the National Council of Women’ Societies of Nigeria.  An  organization that was  actively involved in community organizations and programs for educating and breaking cultural barriers militating against  the advancement of women and children.   Born in Nigeria, Carol received her education in Nigeria and London, England.  Her education and  work made her a recognizable role model for the younger generation in her community.   Carol is well-traveled and has represented her country in many national, international and  UN Conferences.  She is a recipient of many awards including a Chieftaincy  title  from her community, the Rotary Community Service award , WOW-Humanitarian Service Award, and the Precious Mother Award. She spoke to the necessity of education for women and how we must work together for this goal.

Jacki Hunlow Lives in Portland Oregon. Among other honors, she has served on the National Board of the American Mothers Inc. and President of Oregon American Mothers Association, her dedication to the role that mothers play in society inspired her to start the Mothers Legacy Project, a living collection of  written, oral and visual stories honoring mothers. An author and artist Jacki shared the importance of women telling their stories, and how everyone can be a part of this great collection of stories and build strength in children and peace in the world.

Charlotte Hamblin is a native of Utah but has changed lives a world away.  She and her husband saw a need in Mozambique and decided to do something about it.  Over the last three years they have helped countless girls to get an education through their humanitarian projects.  She illustrated how getting sewing machines into the hands of women and paying for the production of school uniforms has opened doors for girls.  Those in attendence were inspired by her work and learned how one woman can make a difference.

 Asha Hagi Elmi was recently honored at an Awards Luncheon in conjunction with a conference co-sponsored by the Worldwide Organization for Women and Weber State University.  She received the “Women and Their Influence for Peace” Advocacy Award.

  Asha has been battling hardship and war since she was very young.  A citizen of Somalia, She has had to raise her young family in the midst of war.  Unlike many, she has spoken out and continues under the hardest of situations, to organize and advocate for women and children from her war torn country.  Currently sitting at the peace table and advising the US Secretary of State, Asha will shared her insight on peace and the need for WOW’s three pillars of humanitarian  work,  educational opportunity   and advocacy if the world is to find peace for its families.

 Asha Hagi has dedicated her life to gaining a better and more peaceful future for her war-torn country, Somalia. At great personal risk, she has fought for women to have a voice in the decisions that affect them. She has mobilized women in the cause of peace across clan and political divides and continues to play a vital role in mediating across warring clans in the on-going peace process. Women in Somalia are in a much stronger position today because of her courage, persistence and compassion. 

Born in 1962, Asha Hagi graduated in economics from Somalia National University and holds a Master’s degree in business administration from the US International University in Africa.


In 1992, hagi founded and is the current Chair of, Save Somali Women and Children (SSWC), which works for a safe and sustainable Somalia by supporting women to overcome marginalization, violence and poverty in their communities. SSWC has seven paid staff and nine volunteers. A large part of the humanitarian funding comes directly from the Somali community around the world as well as from international organizations and individual donors. 


Representing the women of Somalia

during the Arta peace talks in 2000, Hagi founded, together with other women, the Sixth Clan, the clan of women, to complement the traditional five Somali Clans which are all male-dominated. This became the first time women were represented in a peace process in Somalia. She played a similar role in the Mbagathi Conference in Nairobi (2002-2004), which gave birth to the Transitional Federal Government and the Transitional Federal Parliament, of which Hagi became a member. 

In both cases the participation of women in these conferences played a crucial role in their success: not only did the women represent a broader interest of the Somali citizens, compared to the often very narrow political positions of the men. They were also able to do ’shuttle diplomacy’ between the antagonistic factions of the traditional five clans. 

Among the women’s achievements through the idea of the Sixth Clan are: taking women to the high negotiation table with their own identity (Sixth Clan) and as equal partners in decision making, a 12% quota for women representation in the Transitional Federal Parliament, introduction of fair gender formatting (he /she) in the charter language the creation of a Ministry for Gender and Family Affairs, and a decree by the Prime Minister of the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia ensuring a 30% quota for women in the district and regional councils, in national commissions, local committees and conferences.




Late in 2006, events in Somalia took a dramatic turn for the worse. There were two factions in the Transitional Federal Government, which had contrary views relating to peace dialogue or military action involving the Ethiopians. In November 2006, while a group, including Hagi, favoring the former was negotiating with the Islamic Courts Union, which effectively ruled Mogadishu and much of Somalia, the latter was inviting in the Ethiopian army. The Ethiopians took Mogadishu at the end of December, with the deaths of around 1,000 people and widespread destruction of the city. By April 2007, more than 350,000 people had fled the city. 

The current situation effectively prevents Hagi, who has spoken out against this development on the global media, from returning to Mogadishu, so that she is now based in Nairobi. However, her organization SSWC is seeking to give relief in Mogadishu to those who remained, distributing food and hygiene kits to women and children.

Since May 2008, Asha Hagi’s focus is on the UN sponsored peace dialogue between the Transitional Federal Government and the Alliance Re-liberation of Somalia in Djibouti, where she is a member of the High Level Political Committee in the Djibouti Peace and Reconciliation Talks.

In the peace talks, Hagi represents a balanced position between the different political interests. However, she does not give way on her most important principle: the need for reconciliation and an inclusive, non-violent political process. Her role requires a lot of courage and is putting her in considerable danger, even outside Somalia. 




Asha Hagi is a core group member of the Leaders Project, established in 2002, that has brought together more than 300 women leaders from around the world. She is also a member of the Pan-African Parliament in Johannesburg. She is a member of the 21 Peace Commissioners from Africa of the Inter-Faith Action for Peace in Africa (IFAPA), and a Board Member of the Africa Peace Forum (APF) and the International Resource Group on Security and Small Arms in the Horn of Africa Region. 


Asha Hagi has received a number of awards for her human rights and peace-building work. In 2001, she was made an ‘Ambassador for Peace’ by the Interreligious and International Federation For World Peace. In 2005, she received the Blue Ribbon Peace Award from the Women Leadership Board of the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, and the first award of ‘Women of Substance’ by the African Women Development Fund. In 2006, she received the ‘Tombouctou / Women Peacemaking Award’ from Femmes Africa Solidarity.


In an unlikely alliance, a group of American women and Nigerians are protecting children from crocodile and snake infested waters. The children of Enugwu, Nigeria, wade the Eze River to get to school.  During the 5 month rainy season, though, they cannot cross the enlarged torrent at all, so they stay home.  This results in a lack of consistent education, a pressing problem in an already underprivileged area.

This situation was a call to action for The Worldwide Organization for Women (WOW). WOW’s efforts to connect women and unite their influence for good focuses on 3 areas: advocacy, education and humanitarian activities.  The organization has consultative status to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, and members worldwide work to create a safer, better world for women and their families.   Together with Dr. Todd Stong, a retired civil engineer from the Army Corps of Engineers, they began a quest to help the people of this Nigerian village build a permanent means of safely crossing the river. The cooperative and combined efforts of all involved would end up bridging more than just dangerous waters.

While traveling to the World Conference on Women held in Beijing in 1995, WOW members became acquainted with Carol Ugochukwu, a delegate from Nigeria to the same conference.  Their friendship led to a visit to Ugochukwu’s home village, Urumabian in Ozubulu town, by WOW representatives in 2003 and again in March, 2005.  The purpose of the visits was to observe literacy, micro-credit, child-care and nutritional programs that had been instituted by Carol in her role as leader of WOW-Africa, founded in 1999.

Observing village life, Afton Beutler, then Director of Humanitarian Projects, and currently WOW representative to the United Nations-Geneva asked the community elders what they would need the most for their village.  “They took me to the Eze River,” Beutler said. “As we all stood on the banks, they explained that their people couldn’t cross the river in the rainy season.”  They detailed the many problems this created for the villagers, including lack of employment options, restriction from   health care, limited opportunities for the children’s education and the trading of goods. Their request: help with the construction of a bridge.

“I told them we would try,” said Beutler.   “That night there were cries of joy, praising God, as the village crier told the news of a bridge being built over the river.  They, of course, thought it could be done immediately.”  This was in 2003. The first task was to find an engineer who would give them a bid, spearhead the work, and live in a high-risk, remote location for 2-3 months—and all for free.

Ugochukwu was asked to find an engineer in Nigeria to prepare an estimate.  The bid came back at what seemed like an impossible amount–$300,000.00.   A WOW committee member recalled reading about a retired engineer who was available for humanitarian work in third world countries at no cost for his labor. Through an unlikely series of events and coincidences over the next several months, Lori Wilkinson, Bridge Committee Chairman, found that same engineer, Dr. Todd Stong.   He told her he would be available in November, 2005, to take the job.

After dimensions of the river and site conditions were sent to him, he estimated the cost. “The challenges included the need to design a bridge of over 200 ft. in length to carry a truck, to be built with 30-50 unskilled laborers by hand, with no construction equipment, and to fit WOW’s budget, which was less than 10% of that expected for such a structure,” Stong said.  He believed it could be done.

WOW began fundraising.  Nina Palmer, past president of WOW said they approached friends and family for help with the funding. A plea for help was made to attendees of WOW’s conference in Sept. of 2004. Many people donated and money began to accumulate.  Much more was needed, though, and NuSkin, a Utah corporation, provided a grant of $17,500.00.  The project could go forward.

The details of Stong’s journey to Enugwu show the perils he faced. “We sewed the money for the project into our clothing, traveled by daylight, and paid off numerous ‘police’ roadblocks,” Stong said. “Robberies are common, especially for foreigners.” Upon arriving in the village, work to clear the vegetation from both banks of the river began, and it was discovered that the river bed was wider than previously estimated. Dr. Stong was dismayed when he found that the measurements of the needed bridge span were underestimated by more than half.  His $35,000.00 bid was going to be stretched to its limits and beyond.

Dr. Stong welcomed the volunteers from the villages and began to train them in the skills required.  To start and finish the bridge within a 3 month span of time he would need a significant amount of manpower. The state governor graciously offered some funds to provide the volunteer work force of 25 men with a token wage.  Modern machines and technology are not an option in rural Nigeria, especially on such a limited budget.  Instead, Dr. Stong took with him the minimal tools required.  “When I showed the local government official, and later the governor, my engineering tools—a 500 foot roll of nylon cord, a 4” line level and a tape measure—they were amazed,” Stong said. “The tools for the men in building this bridge were equally simple—shovels, picks and head pans.”

The increased scope of the bridge would require 150 tons of excavation, 170 tons of concrete and 47 tons of timber placement, all completed through manual labor, but “it would be straight and level”, according to Stong.  Additional problems surfaced as the work went forward. Crocodiles and snakes became a minor issue as they tended to move upstream with the noise of construction. The oppressive heat and humidity caused Dr Stong to lose 26 lb. in the first 2 months.  Delays in obtaining basic materials sometimes slowed the project down for several weeks at a time.

Good things happened, too.  The men gained confidence as they learned new skills.  The women were proud of the men and often brought food for the workers. Dr. Stong said.  “Hope began to grow as the bridge grew.  The local government saw our progress and came through with some funds for bull-dozer help on the adjoining roads.”  During delays and at night, Dr. Stong rarely rested. He tackled other projects in the area for the villages and churches.  These included plans for a water supply, rebuilding of other bridges, and even the design of a ferry to cross trucks and people over a wide river several states to the north.

Dr. Stong and WOW had determined an objective that all designs, construction concepts, devices crafted for substituting manual labor for powered machines, and the administrative agreements developed by this project be freely offered to any and all other interested communities.  As the weeks passed, the structure grew.  Forty concrete pillars topped with steel columns emerged from the swamp.   350 lb. timbers were bolted between pillars and then came the equally massive beams that would lie beneath the wheels of the autos soon to pass overhead.   Finally came the deck planks, railings and treadways.

The last bridge built in this area had taken three years to complete, but had washed out completely over 30 years before. The story of this bridge being accomplished in less than three months by volunteers with no construction experience or equipment soon reached Dr. Chris Ngige, the Governor of Anambra State. He came to the river with a TV crew to publicize this amazing enterprise.  He praised the ingenuity and leadership of Dr. Stong, the generosity of WOW, and congratulated the workers for their amazing speed, obvious skill, and willingness to volunteer.   “The pride of the local villagers could not have been higher,” Stong said.

Dr. Stong returned home in mid- January.  The last shipment of heavy timbers from the distant forest was still delayed and family matters required his presence in the U.S.  Local timber supplies were exhausted, requiring a hazardous journey to a remote area near the border of Nigeria and Cameroon. The men purchased large standing trees, cut them by hand, and hauled the logs back to the bridge site.   After the timber arrived, the men finished the bridge on their own with Dr Stong consulting with his crew via e-mail. The men remain anxious to be given the chance to do another bridge project, one that Dr. Stong designed and bid for them before his departure.  This new job will not only provide the villagers with an opportunity to make use of their new skills but will also offer a full wage.

Dr. Stong is once again leaving for central Mexico to begin more water-related engineering work.  He is in his tenth year of providing humanitarian services at no cost. The end result of the labor of many men, the unselfish work of Dr. Stong, and the dedicated faith and fundraising of WOW members is that economic improvement, better health and consistent education will soon be benefiting the families of Enugwu.

Susan Dayton, current president of WOW, says this is what her organization is about. “Supporting women and recognizing their influence for good worldwide, we have helped the women, men and children from this remote village know that anything is possible.”  And now the children will be able to attend school all year round—without worry about what may be lurking in the water.

This heartfelt plea strikes a chord with members of the Worldwide Organization for Women who are seeking to address the crushing needs of the world’s oppressed by advocating for policies that strengthen women, marriage, and families. Policy makers and public officials in many parts of the world are beginning to recognize the social, cultural and economic importance of good marriages and healthy families.  A woman’s influence upon her family and community can have more lasting and significant impact upon society than government programs or agencies, no matter how well intentioned or well funded they are.

WOW works in a variety of ways to improve quality of life for individuals as well as nations.   WOW representatives in NY and Geneva are active at the UN, speaking up, drawing attention to women’s issues and organizing for change.   Members and interns from several universities sponsor panels and roundtables, and sign written/oral statements in collaboration with other NGO’s at UN events in NY, Paris, Brussels and Geneva on a variety of issues such as: Education of girls in Afghanistan; Female Feticide and Infanticide; Value of Women’s Unwaged Work in Society; Peace Panels; Honor Killings; Forced Marriages; Early Marriage; Migration and Health; Bioethics and Gender Networking.  

So much happens behind the scenes of political and governmental policy making.  WOW representatives are not only able to share their voices but they also provide members with information that can help them become agents for change.  Some examples of the work WOW is doing:

• Research and advocacy at the Human Rights Council and Committee on the Status of Women (CSW) and CoNGO  in areas such as health, education, peace, economics and family issues
• WOW members attended the Doha Conference and were in attendance in NY when the Doha Declaration was taken to the UN General Assembly and resulted in the Doha Document for the International Year of the Family.
• WOW sponsored a conference entitled: “A peaceful world comes from peaceful people”.  A presentation on the “Underground Railroad” honored Americans who had courage and strong convictions to oppose slavery.
• In Geneva, WOW assisted a program which allowed students to attend the UNESCO Slavery exhibition at the UN. “Heroic women are continually fighting to free enslaved people of today from the bonds of poverty, illiteracy and disease. Their work is helping individuals and families secure the rights and freedoms that all should be able to enjoy regardless of where they live, their culture or religion.”
• WOW presented “Women and their Influence for Good” Conferences in 2005 and 2007 honoring women from around the world for their achievements
• Supported the American Mothers Legacy Project.

Do you want to make a difference in the lives of those who have no voice?  Join WOW and be a part of our efforts to improve the quality of life for individuals, as well as nations.

How did I get involved?  I was in graduate school when the opportunity arose to represent WOW at the UN.  I’ve always been passionate about women’s rights, so the responsibility of representing women and their influence for good at meetings, conferences, committees and UN missions sounded like it would be a great learning experience.   It has been fantastic!  I put on my nicest business attire (and that wonderful badge) and have access to conferences, meetings and panels on world issues. There are delegates to meet, experts to greet, and a whole UN system that I have hardly even begun to understand.  I’ve attended international conferences on topics such as HIV/AIDS, sustainability, women and the financial crisis, climate change, violence against women in the media, and many others. There just isn’t enough time in my schedule to attend all of the interesting, pertinent events here.

One of the things I most enjoy about my position is attending the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) when women from around the world gather in New York at the end of February to address women’s issues.  (CSW) was established in 1946 by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) to promote women’s rights in the political, economic, civil, social and educational fields.  There is such energy present as thousands of women from all corners of the globe join together to discuss issues impacting women.  They come from different backgrounds, languages, and customs, bringing with them different perspectives, ideas, and hopes for change.  The days are full and exciting, filled with briefings in the UN Conference room, caucuses, panels, presentations, and long discussion with new friends over dinner at one of New York’s countless restaurants. I have enjoyed connecting with incredible women who are also working in their own countries on the same issues that we’ve convened to discuss.

The Priority Theme for 2009 was:  “The equal sharing of responsibilities between men and women, including care giving in the context of HIV/AIDS” (CSW 53, 2009 )   The 2008 theme was: “Financing for gender equality and the empowerment of women” (CSW 52, 2008)     In addition to the Priority Themes, each year WOW hosts side events such as panel discussions focused on the year’s topic and how it relates to our mission of connecting women and their influence for good.  As we have shared our vision of creating change through advocacy, education and humanitarian activities, we have developed associations and friendships with women from around the world that we’ve invited to participate at these panels.

When other members leave after the first week of CSW, I have the privilege of spending another exhausting week of finalizing draft conclusions in addition to more workshops, caucuses, and meetings with missions.  I’ve taken the opportunity to sit at the table as the words are being drafted for proposed changes to the draft conclusion.  Working hard on proposals, networking, and learning are different but equally rewarding aspects of CSW that make it a valuable and truly memorable experience for me.

CSW is a highlight for me, but we’re busy as bees at UN Headquarters all year long, not just during CSW!  I’m a member of a number of committees, each with monthly meetings and a plan for action.  For instance, the NGO (Non Government Organization) Commission on the Status of Women brings together ECOSOC NGOS who are all advocating for women’s rights at the UN for monthly meetings.  The themes of the meetings vary as we meet with ambassadors and experts in and around the UN to educate ourselves and to build our networks.

I’m also involved with two subcommittees—the Subcommittee on Violence Against Women, and Women and Climate Change.  These are two particular areas of personal and professional interest for me, and since these committees are smaller, I get to contribute greatly to the discussion on what our goals are on these issues! Check out the new website for the Subcommittee on Women and Climate Change —we’re working hard to advocate for a gendered perspective in the climate change negotiations going on now to prepare for COP 15 in Copenhagen in December.

WOW also advocates for families through education, strengthening the family, and supporting family-friendly policies.  The NGO Committee on the Family meets monthly on various themes concerning the family worldwide and brings in local and international experts on “family” to lead discussions. I was also recently elected to the Board as the Correspondence Secretary, and now have the opportunity to plan upcoming meetings and events.

If you’re in New York City and interested in attending one of these or another NGO committees at the UN, contact us!  I encourage you, (yes YOU!) to get involved, no matter your age or circumstances.  Each little part can help!  I’ve learned these last few years that you can’t make a difference if you aren’t at the table….    Suvi Hynynen, WOW NY UN Representative

Interested in attending CSW 54 in March 2010?    Let us know!