Latest news with #Ra'idat
Zawya
09-04-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) Tetteh marks the halfway point of this year's Ra'idat programme with presentations from young women in Tripoli
To mark the halfway point of this year's Ra'idat programme, and the participant's completion of the UK Government's Campaigning Excellence e-learning platform, SRSG Hanna S. Tetteh joined participants to talk about the importance of women's leadership. Alongside the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General, Stephanie Koury and the Deputy British Ambassador, Thomas Phipps, the SRSG received presentations from the young women on the programme showcasing their work and handed out certificates for completing the e-learning training. 'Everyone has an important role to play in the future of Libya. But women, and especially young women, can lead the change be that driving force for difference in their communities,' said SRSG Tetteh adding that it was important that the young women on the programme share the skills they have learnt with others in their communities. During the day, the thirty-five young women worked in groups to develop communication campaigns on tackling healthcare, education and entrepreneurship issues, utilising the skills taught in the e-learning platform. They researched their subjects and presented their targeted campaign to the SRSG, DSRSG and Deputy Ambassador, explaining their strategy and implementation plans in a five-minute presentation. 'It's such a privilege to see you put the skills you have learned and strengthened so far during this programme into practise,' said Deputy Ambassador Phipps. 'The skills you have developed can help you to be more effective in achieving your own personal goals. But they will also help you to shape Libya's future.' The UN in Libya's Ra'idat training programme for young women takes thirty-five young women a year from across Libya and cultural components. Some 750 applications were received for the 2025 programme which will graduate in August. Applications for the 2026 programme will open in July 2025. This year's programme has been supported by the United Kingdom, Italy and Germany as well as the four UN partners, UNSMIL, UNICEF, UN Women and UNDP. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).
Zawya
02-04-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Ra'idat alumni joins United Nations (UN) Commission on the Status of Women session to discuss youth issues
As one of the alumni of the UN in Libya's Ra'idat programme, Shahed El Kharraz, 24 from Misrata, was selected by the UN's Youth Office to attend in person the Commission on the Status of Women to discuss women and youth issues. The conference took place in March in New York, and brought together youth activists, civil society organisations and government officials from all over the world to share their experiences and develop policies to support development worldwide. 'Walking into the United Nations and taking part in discussions on women's and youth issues was more than just an event on my calendar it was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of global decision-making, and the vital role of civil society in shaping policies that impact millions,' said El Kharraz upon her return to Libya. During her time in New York, El Kharraz learnt about the structured system of international diplomacy, including how side events and bilateral meetings around the main agenda are a key part of the process for those advocating for change. 'The conference provided an invaluable opportunity to engage with ministers and policymakers dedicated to advancing women's empowerment,' said El Kharraz. 'Our discussions focused on the challenges women face worldwide, particularly in political and economic participation, and the essential role of civil society in accelerating progress,' she added, saying that the experience taught her how intricate and difficult these issues are on a global scale. Describing the side events around the conference as more interactive, she said that it was in these dynamic discussions that she felt the pulse of change, where civil society played a crucial role in pushing for more inclusive and effective policies. 'One of the most inspiring aspects of my time at CSW69 was meeting remarkable women leaders and activists who have led transformative movements despite immense challenges. Listening to their stories of breaking barriers, defying societal expectations, and advocating for change was nothing short of empowering. Many of our conversations revolved around the lack of women in decision-making roles and the urgent need to ensure that women are not just included in discussions but are actively leading them,' she said. El Kharraz was also a panellist in a youth leadership discussion focused on breaking barriers and shaping a future for which integrated young people into decision-making processes. 'I spoke about the structural challenges that often hinder youth from reaching leadership positions,' she said, adding that she also realised that real change does not happen within the walls of UN alone. 'The true transformation begins when we return to our communities and put these frameworks into action, making a tangible impact on the ground.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).
