“History is calling for reconciliation, love, service and sacrifice. Today's problems cannot be solved by the logic of power. Our present problems can only be solved by the logic of love.” These words by Dr Hak Ja Han Moon, Founder of the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) were handed out to everyone at the back of the agenda to offers an insight of the vision and mission of the WFWP. The conference started with an introduction of the WFWP by Christelle K. Ngama, who was the MC. The room at 43 Lancaster Gate housed around 80 guests. Salima Chebbah then carried out an “energiser” activity, which required guests to work in teams and write one adjective which describes them, using the first letter of their names. It was an activity of integration and self-discovery. At the end of this activity, Salima read some of the adjectives: adventurous, humble, happy, alive, charismatic, creative and provocative. This activity helped the women and men present, to remember our value as human beings, as well as to realise our potential.
Music always brightens up any place; hence Emiko Cohn delighted us with an amazing voice by singing “You Raise Me Up”. This was followed by a short film on “The Importance and Right to Family”, for the WFWP UN Office in Geneva. Mitty Tohma, WFWP UK president, then said a few words about the role of the WFWP and her experiences working with the organisation. She then introduced Dr. Lan Young Moon, WFWPI President, who spoke about how she along with other women fought to raise their voices and make a change, starting within their communities in Korea and then portraying it worldwide.
Harumi Currie gave a presentation of the work done by WFWP in Jordan and the conditions that some women are enduring there. WFWP has been raising money to support Syrian refugees residing in Jordan and also giving them the means to sell hand-made products to help sustain their families. Keishin Hoshiko, WFWP Youth Coordinator, spoke about the past and futures projects. Christelle K. Ngama spoke about Congo Rises and the outcome of the UN CSW Conference in New York.
Taeko Duckworth, WFWP UK Vice President, introduced the “Speech Contest for Young Women” which aims to encourage young women around the UK to excel in their public speaking skills. This year’s theme is “Women and their Role in Society”. The deadline is June 30th and the winner will receive a cash prize of £500. More details can be found on www.wfwp.org.uk.
Finally an Ambassador for Peace Award was presented to an exceptional young woman, Asmah Anis, for her contribution to the organisations as well as her desire to help elevate the status of women and girls. Guests and participants were then invited to some refreshments where they had the opportunity to discuss the outcome of the meeting, network and also become official members of WFWP.