MELF Cohort Four at UN CSW69 in New York

The sixty-ninth session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) is taking place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from 10 to 21 March 2025.

Cohort Four of the Mercy Emerging Leaders Fellows are in New York in attendance at CSW69 as part of their second immersion experience.

Throughout the whirlwind of panels and discussions, the fellows have dedicated time to reflect. Below are some of their observations and impressions of the past couple days.

McKenna Smith (United States) said: “On Day One [of CSW69], I met Pearlette, an activist and attorney. She told me that she was showing a movie about climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and what her personal obstacles have been and how she’s made them into something that can impact generations. Tonight, a group of us went to the movie and left in awe. The strength of women is remarkable. When we do not let our trauma define us but allow it to shape us, we can help lessen the burden and suffering of others. On a personal level, Luciah is my roommate and what a joy is she. Every day she takes time to encourage me and remind me of my purpose, belonging, and joy. She is someone who you can have serious conversations with and also laugh at the world in the same breath.”

Teresa Vaughan (Aotearoa New Zealand) said: "There is no doubt the current moment is daunting, but we will not be daunted."

Luciah Njogu (Kenya) said: “The interaction with the Secretary General to the UN was amazing, especially when one of the audience [members] asked ... ‘would we ever have a women Secretary General to the UN?’

It was astonishing to him, and the look at his face amused everyone in the conference room.”

Sarah Terry (South Africa) said: “This morning we had the privilege of attending the General Assembly ‘Town Hall’ Meeting with the UN Secretary-General. I was particularly struck by the way he responded to questions, with clarity and conviction. One powerful quote that resonated with me was: ‘Let us be clear—gender equality has never belonged on the margins. Let us never forget that inequality is a question of power, and power is never given—it needs to be taken. Use every resource available to you. They will only hear you if you shout loudly enough."

You can keep up to date on MELF and all things Justice by following our Mercy Global Action team here.