0
0
Vienna, Austria – August 29, 2024 – The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) successfully hosted its 6th Meet and Greet event on August 29, 2024, in a dynamic hybrid format, bringing together participants online via Zoom and in person. The event, themed “Women and Youth Working Together for a More Resilient and Sustainable Future for Generations to Come,” featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and interactive sessions focused on fostering collaboration between women and youth in addressing global challenges.
Keynote Speakers and Presentations
The event was graced by several prominent speakers, each contributing valuable insights on leadership, sustainability, and mental health:
1. Dr. Maria Riehl, Director WFWP UN – Vienna Office; President WFWP Austria, 1992- 2002, delivered the keynote address, while Ambassador Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas, a seasoned diplomat, shared her experiences in international relations.
2. Mrs. Moriko Hori, a leader in women’s empowerment and WFWP’s international President, spoke on the importance of cultivating strong, supportive networks among women and youth, encouraging participants to engage in cross-generational mentorship and collaboration. She could not attend, so Ms Merle Blaschke read the message
on her behalf.
3. Ms. Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas and Ms. Sarah Jozelle Rojas, mother, and daughter presenters, delivered a presentation on UNSDG 3.4: Mental Health and Well-Being, presenting perspectives from Gen X and Gen Z.
4. Ms. Shrruthi Lekha Raaja Elango, a doctoral researcher at the United Nations University for Peace who focuses on people-centered development cooperation, emphasized the benefits of political discussions among young adults.
5. Ms. Tania Islam, an intern at the NGO academy and a researcher at the Department of World Religions & Culture, University of Dhaka highlighted the importance of women in leadership positions.
6. Ms. Irene Schmuttermeier, a marketing strategist and analytical specialist who volunteers and advocates for peace, expressed her deep concern for global issues.
7. Ms. Anais Carolina Vega Montalvan, a graduate in Biology, at the University of Alcala, Spain, mentioned how the relationship between Earth and us humans is one of profound interconnectedness and mutual dependence.
8. Ms. Christine Rose Bulayo, Regional Secretary-General for WFWP Asia Pacific, Computer Engineer and Co-Project Manager of the Permaculture Literacy Program, focused on Climate Action Initiatives.
9. Lastly, Ms. Renate Amesbauer delivered the closing remarks and encouraged attendees to work together on worthwhile project-related sustainable development goals.
Engaging in Discussions and Entertainment
The event was moderated by Ms. Kyung In van de Ven Oliveira, who expertly guided the discussions, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all participants. Technical and media support was provided by Ms. Lilly Gundacker, whose efforts ensured the event’s smooth operation, particularly for those attending virtually. In addition to the insightful discussions, the event also featured entertainment by Aseo Friesacher, whose performance added a lively and inspiring element to the proceedings, reflecting the event’s vibrant and hopeful spirit.
Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The Meet and Greet hybrid format allowed for broad participation, with attendees from various regions and backgrounds coming together to discuss and develop strategies for a more resilient and sustainable future. The event highlighted the importance of cross-generational collaboration, with both women and youth playing integral roles in shaping the
future.
Upcoming events organized by Marizel and Sarah Jozelle Rojas in collaboration with WFWP Europe and the European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD-Austria), among others, include International Mental Health Day on 10 October 2024 and Mental Health Awareness Week, 12-18 May 2024, which could consist of Global Awareness Campaigns, Community Events, Educational Initiatives and Media Outreach.
Looking Forward
WFWP continues to be at the forefront of initiatives, bringing diverse voices together to address global challenges. The 6th Meet and Greet exemplifies WFWP’s commitment to fostering collaboration and empowering women and youth to lead efforts toward sustainability and resilience. The organization looks forward to hosting more in-person and virtual events to continue building a global community dedicated to peace and prosperity.
About WFWP:
The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) is an international organization dedicated
to empower women as peacebuilders and leaders to create a more just and peaceful world. WFWP works to advance social, educational, and humanitarian initiatives worldwide through educational programs, advocacy, and community initiatives.
About the Author
Sarah Jozelle Rojas is in the process of finishing her BSc in Business and
Economics. Her interests include fashion, traveling, and pole dancing. She
also enjoys sampling different cuisines. An avid and indiscriminate reader,
she expresses her biculturalism through her poetry.
She is a member of the following Philippine and International
organizations:
- Bikol Society Austria (BSA)
- European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD – Austria)
- United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG)
- Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES)
- Vienna International Centre- Club Filipino (VIC CF)
