African Renaissance and Diaspora Network
New York, NY – March 13, 2025 –
As the world marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, today’s High-Level Event on Empowering Women Globally as Leaders in the Struggle for Climate Change, with Special Reference to Women of Africa and the Diaspora, co-hosted by the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN), the Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United Nations, and the World Madam Foundation, convened distinguished leaders, policymakers, and activists in New York to drive forward concrete solutions for gender equality in climate action.
“The fight against climate change cannot be won without women in decision-making roles,” stated Dr. Djibril Diallo, President and CEO of ARDN. “This gathering serves as a catalyst to strengthen the global movement for women’s leadership in climate justice and reinforce the promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals, a special project of ARDN for the United Nations.”
The event, held at Apella by Alexandria in New York City, featured a compelling pre-recorded keynote address from H.E. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. In her message, she underscored the urgent need for women’s leadership in global climate action, emphasizing that gender equality must be at the heart of sustainable development policies.
Moving from Dialogue to Action
Ministers from Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Kosovo, alongside high-ranking UN officials and civil society leaders, outlined key priorities for immediate action:
• Policy Advocacy: ARDN and its partners will push for gender-responsive climate policies in government and corporate decision-making.
• Youth Engagement: Expanding mentorship and training programs to empower young women as climate leaders.
• Red Card Campaign Expansion: Scaling the campaign to more countries to combat gender discrimination and violence.
• Strategic Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with governments, civil society, and the private sector to amplify women’s leadership in climate action.
“Women must not only be at the table but must lead the conversation in shaping climate solutions for future generations,” said Anni Huang, Founder & President of the World Madam Foundation. “Global cooperation is key to dismantling barriers and ensuring that women play a pivotal role in addressing the climate crisis.”
Spotlight on Women Leaders
The event featured expert panel discussions on:
✔ Youth Leadership in Climate Justice – Young changemakers emphasized the need for intergenerational collaboration in climate action.
✔ Breaking Barriers: Women at the Forefront of Climate Solutions – Experts discussed challenges and strategies for integrating gender-responsive climate policies.
✔ The Role of Education and Culture in Advancing Gender and Climate Justice – Thought leaders highlighted the importance of education and cultural advocacy in driving sustainable change.
Expanding the Red Card Campaign
A key highlight was the expansion of the ARDN Red Card Campaign, a global initiative advocating zero tolerance for violence and discrimination against women and girls. The event also featured the unveiling of Skyborne, a new theme song produced by Michel Zgarka, reinforcing culture’s role in climate and gender justice.
Honoring Champions of Women’s Leadership
As part of the event, ARDN recognized trailblazing leaders and changemakers who have made significant contributions to gender equality and climate justice. The following distinguished honorees received awards for their outstanding impact:
🏆 Minister Nassénéba Touré (Côte d’Ivoire) – Recognized for her commitment to women’s empowerment.
🏆 Ms. Shavon Arline Bradley (NCNW) – Honored for her leadership in gender justice.
🏆 Dr. Lois Keith (NCNW) – Celebrated for her dedication to women’s education.
🏆 H.E. Liza Gashi (Kosovo) – Recognized for leadership in foreign affairs and gender equality.
🏆 Minister Anielle Francisco da Silva (Brazil) – Honored for her advocacy in racial and gender justice.
Celebrating Africa Day at the United Nations
As part of its mission to foster lasting impact, ARDN is pleased to announce Celebrating Africa Day at the United Nations Headquarters around May 25, 2025. This event will highlight Africa’s contributions to global development, with a focus on youth leadership, gender equality, and climate action.
Rather than simply moving from one high-level event to another, ARDN remains committed to ensuring tangible follow-up actions. Africa Day at the United Nations will provide a platform to assess progress, share best practices, and reinforce global partnerships.
A Global Commitment to Lasting Change
The event concluded with a call for collective action to elevate women’s participation in climate governance. A closing reception and cultural showcase celebrated the resilience of women from Africa and the Diaspora, reinforcing the message that gender equality and climate justice must go hand in hand.
Media Contacts
🔹 Ibrahima FAYE
Special Assistant to the President & CEO, ARDN
📧 Email: ibrahima.faye@ardn.ngo
📞 Phone: +221 77 653 73 51
🔹 Arlene Katzive
Director of External Relations, ARDN
📧 Email: arlene.katzive@ardn.ngo
📞 Phone: +1 (917) 613-6616
📌 For more information on ARDN’s initiatives, visit: www.ardn.ngo
About the Organizers
🔹 African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN) – Advancing sustainable development and gender equality through global partnerships.
🔹 Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United Nations – A champion of multilateral cooperation and inclusive global governance.
🔹 World Madam Foundation – Empowering women worldwide through leadership, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
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