What:
High-Level Panel Discussion –“Empowering Women Globally as Leaders in the Struggle for Climate Change, with Special Reference to Women of Africa and the Diaspora”
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When:
📅 March 13, 2025 | 🕒 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🎭 (Followed by a Reception and Live Cultural Show)
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Where:
🏛 Apella by Alexandria, 450 East 29th Street, Second Floor, New York City
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Who:
Organized by the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN), the Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United Nations, and the World Madam Foundation.
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Co-Sponsors:
•United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
•United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
•United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
•National Council of Negro Women (NCNW)
(Additional co-sponsors pending confirmation.)
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A Global Call to Action: Women Leading the Fight Against Climate Change
H.E. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, will headline the ARDN High-Level Event on March 13, emphasizing the urgent need for women’s leadership in tackling climate change.
In an exclusive keynote address by video , she will set the stage for a high-impact dialogue on empowering women—especially from Africa and the Diaspora—as key drivers of climate resilience, sustainability, and global environmental justice.
Timed alongside the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, this landmark gathering will convene top global decision-makers, UN officials, ministers, activists, and business leaders to turn discussion into real-world solutions.
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Featured Dignitaries & Distinguished Guests Include:
•Hon. Nasseneba Touré, Minister for the Promotion of Women, the Family and Child Protection, Côte d’Ivoire
•Hon. Inès Nefer Ingani Youmbo Yalo, Minister for the Promotion of Women, Their Integration into Development and the Informal Economy, Congo Brazzaville
•Anielle Francisco Silva, Minister for Racial Equality, Brazil
•Dr. Liza Gashi, Deputy Foreign Minister of Kosovo
•Dr. Oulimata Keita, Executive Director, Greenpeace Africa
•Ambassador Coly Seck, Permanent Representative of Senegal to the United Nations
•The Honorable Constance Newman, Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs & Chair of the ARDN Board of Directors
•Ms. Shavon Arline Bradley, President & CEO, National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), USA
•Dr. Lois Keith, Chair of the Board of NCNW
•Ms. Ligia Noronha, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Head of UNEP’s New York Office
•Mr. Eliot Michenberg, Director, UNESCO’s New York Office
•Ms. Li Yan, Southwest University of Political Science and Law (SWUPL), China
•Dr. Elizabeth “Beth” Stroble, Chancellor Emeritus, Webster University, & Co-Chair of ARDN’s Higher Education Initiative
•Dr. Gilbert Rochon, Interim Dean, Barbara Jordan–Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, Texas Southern University, & Co-Chair of ARDN’s Higher Education Initiative
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Why This Event Matters?
With women disproportionately affected by climate change, this event will push for bold solutions to ensure women’s voices, expertise, and leadership shape climate policies worldwide.
“The participation of H.E. Amina J. Mohammed underscores the UN’s commitment to putting women at the forefront of global climate action. This is not just a discussion; it is a movement for real, lasting change,” said Dr. Djibril Diallo, President & CEO of ARDN.
“Empowering women in climate leadership is not optional—it is essential. This event will serve as a catalyst for global action, bringing together policymakers, advocates, and private sector leaders to drive impact,” said Anni Huang, Founder & Chairwoman of the World Madam Foundation.
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Key Issues & Takeaways from the Event:
✔ Changing the Narrative: Elevating women’s voices in climate leadership.
✔ Building Global Partnerships: Bringing together governments, businesses, and civil society for action.
✔ Breaking Barriers: Addressing violence and discrimination against women and girls.
✔ Redefining Corporate Responsibility: Urging companies to integrate gender-responsive climate policies.
✔ Establishing a Global Platform: Creating an international framework for sustainable women-led climate action.
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Spotlight: The Red Card Campaign & the Power of Music for Change
A core feature of the event will be ARDN’s Red Card Campaign, a bold global initiative to eliminate violence and discrimination against women and girls.
The campaign works across sectors to:
✅ Develop gender-sensitive workplace policies
✅ Conduct training and awareness programs
✅ Promote zero-tolerance environments
✅ Use the Red Card as a universal symbol of commitment to gender justice
As part of this movement, a powerful new theme song, “Skyborne,” will debut at the event. Produced by Michel Zgarka, Skyborne is an anthem of resilience and transformation, celebrating women’s leadership in the fight for a sustainable future.
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A Celebration of Culture & Global Unity
Following the panel discussion, guests will immerse themselves in an evening of cultural exchange, networking, and celebration.
🎶 The Reception & Live Cultural Show will showcase the rich heritage of Africa and the Diaspora, offering a space for leaders and guests to connect, share insights, and experience the power of artistic expression as a force for social change.
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Join Us & Be Part of the Movement
📍 To attend the event, register here: https://www.ardn.ngo/events/csw2025
📞 For media inquiries and accreditation, please contact:
🔹 Ibrahima FAYE
Special Assistant to the President & CEO
📧 Email: ibrahima.faye@ardn.ngo
📞 Phone: +221 77 653 73 51
🔹 Arlene Katzive
Director of External Relations
📧 Email: arlene.katzive@ardn.ngo
📞 Phone: +1 (917) 613-6616
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About the Organizers
🔹 The African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN) is committed to promoting sustainable development and gender equality by empowering women leaders worldwide.
🔹 The Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United Nations advocates for international cooperation and sustainable development.
🔹 The World Madam Foundation empowers women globally through education, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
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Media Takeaway:
🔥 A high-powered, solutions-driven event featuring global changemakers, led by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed.
🔥 Exclusive unveiling of “Skyborne,” a musical anthem for women’s leadership in climate justice.
🔥 The Red Card Campaign continues to build momentum in eliminating violence and discrimination against women and girls.
📢 For exclusive interviews, media passes, or additional information, reach out today!
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