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Vienna, Austria / 30 September 2025 — The Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) successfully hosted an international online event titled “What Women, Youth, and Civil Society Can Bring to the Table to Support the UN SDGs for 2030 – Ensuring No One Is Left Behind.”
Bringing together women leaders, youth representatives, and civil society partners from across the globe, the event served as the 10th edition of WFWP’s “Meet & Greet” series. It highlighted the power of collaboration, dialogue, and shared action in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Empowering Voices for Sustainable Change
In her opening remarks, Ms. Merle Soquila-Blaschke, WFWP Austria–Philippine Liaison, emphasized the urgent need for unity and cooperation among “all peace-loving citizens” to achieve the 2030 Agenda.
“The ‘Meet & Greet’ platform brings people together from every background to engage in meaningful dialogue,” she said. “It provides a space for youth to participate, share their perspectives, and amplify their voices in shaping a more peaceful and sustainable world.”
The event also featured the presentation of the “Youth Ambassador of Peace Awards”, held in partnership with the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP) Europe and the Middle East (EUME) — celebrating young leaders dedicated to service, empathy, and global citizenship.
Highlights and Key Speakers
Ms. Renate Amesbauer, President of WFWP Austria and Secretary General of the WFWPI UN Office in Vienna, moderated the event, ensuring an engaging and inclusive discussion.
Ms. Mitty Tohma, President of WFWP Europe & the Middle East, outlined the organization’s four global priorities:
- Women, Peace, and Security
- The Global Women’s Peace Network
- Climate Action and Sustainable Environment
- Development and Humanitarian Aid
“These priorities,” Ms. Tohma explained, “align directly with the UN SDGs, empowering women as peace-builders, promoting education, addressing climate change, and fostering partnerships for development.”
Ms. Chryzl T. Sicat, Third Secretary and Vice Consul at the Philippine Embassy in Vienna, shared insights into women’s councils and youth leadership initiatives in the Philippines, reaffirming the Embassy’s commitment to supporting sustainable community development.
From the United States, Ms. Jizly L. Dohou, Director of WFWP Philadelphia, presented her “Nobody Is Left Behind” initiative — empowering women and girls while advocating for undocumented families. She also introduced the “Pampers the Parents” program, calling for “collective action to overcome systemic inequities and ensure every person has the chance to thrive.”
Ms. Marizel Rojas, Chairperson of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora – Austria (ENFiD-Austria), underscored the pivotal role of diaspora youth in advancing the SDGs. Announcing the upcoming Youth Changemakers Forum (26–27 February 2026) under the theme “Generations in Dialogue,” she urged organizations to collaborate, mentor, and invest in youth leadership.
“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow,” she said. “They are the changemakers of today.”
Ms. Dilbar Kadyrkul, from a UN Agency on Migration in Kazakhstan, discussed grassroots initiatives empowering rural women through workshops and leadership training.
Ms. Blessie Belle Ramos, a 24-year-old teacher from the Philippines, showcased peace-building and environmental projects from her community via a recorded presentation, highlighting creativity and collaboration through Kids Art Workshops.
Despite connectivity challenges caused by a recent earthquake, Ms. Anna Feakins, Global Development Specialist, and Engr. Christine Rose Bulayo, Regional Secretary-General of WFWPI–Asia Pacific, shared recorded messages and will present their full reports in the next Meet & Greet session.
Dr. Sarah Ahmed, Vice President of IAYSP Europe & the Middle East, concluded the award segment by reflecting on the organization’s mission to promote a “culture of heart,” known as Hyo Jeong.
Closing Reflections
Dr. Maria Riehl, Director of the WFWP UN Vienna Office, closed the event with words of gratitude:
“Today’s discussions reaffirmed our shared commitment to peace, partnership, and progress. Together, we are building a global community where no one is left behind.”
Behind the Scenes
The event’s smooth execution was made possible by:
- Ms. Lilly Gundacker, WFWP Austria Media & Technical Adviser, for providing technical and media coordination.
- Ms. Nora Waldmann, music teacher from New Jersey, USA, for providing musical interludes.
- Ms. Mailin Ferreira, Assistant at the WFWP UN Office Vienna, for designing the event flyer.
The event concluded with an inspiring message from Ms. Soquila-Blaschke:
“With God, all things are possible.”
About the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP)
Founded in 1992, the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI) is a global network of women leaders dedicated to peacebuilding, education, humanitarian service, and sustainable development. With chapters in over 120 countries, WFWP partners with UN agencies and civil society to advance women’s leadership and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For more information, visit www.wfwp.org or contact WFWP Austria – UN Office Vienna.
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