One of the key side events at CSW69 was “Girl’s Education in Conflict Areas 2025,” hosted by Four Directions, a leadership institute for young people who are interested to be leaders for tomorrow and a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting young refugee women. Mary Apollo, the Founder of Four Directions, led the event on Thursday, March 13th, 2025 at the Church of Scientology of New York.
The 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) was held at the United Nations headquarters in New York from March 10 to March 21, 2025. This event brought together global leaders, activists, and policymakers to discuss the theme, “Accelerating the Achievement of Gender Equality and the Empowerment of All Women and Girls.” The forum was a platform for addressing pressing issues related to gender equality, with a special focus on women’s access to education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and leadership roles.
Opening Remarks and the Mission of Four Directions
Mary Apollo began the event by welcoming guests, dignitaries, and young leaders from around the world. She expressed her gratitude to the supporting organizations, including Cornerstone Mount Group and Youth for Human Rights International, for making the event possible. Mary Apollo highlighted that the event aimed to launch “Young Women and Girls in Complex Areas 2025,” a program focused on providing education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for girls living in war-affected regions.
Reflecting on her journey, Mary Apollo shared her motivation for founding Four Directions. She spoke about her experiences growing up in Sudan and the challenges she faced as a young woman aspiring to become a leader.
“I know what it means to be denied an education simply because you are a girl. That experience has shaped my mission to ensure no young girl faces the same barriers I did,” she stated.
Mary Apollo highlighted the resilience of women in refugee camps across Sudan, Mali, and Nigeria, acknowledging their efforts to improve their families’ and communities’ quality of life. She shared the origins of her initiative, which began in 2024, with a vision of strengthening women’s leadership through education and self-empowerment. In collaboration with young African women and Cornerstone Mount Group, she submitted a proposal to the UN Commission on the Status of Women, advocating for quality education and economic opportunities for women in conflict zones as well as the need for environmental health considerations.
She also recounted a project that took place in the Pagirinya Refugee Camp in Northern Uganda, where Four Directions sponsored 46 children by covering their school fees, books, and uniforms. She told the listening audience that education is a fundamental human right and called on global citizens to continue supporting efforts to uplift young women in vulnerable communities.
“Education is the only way out of poverty and oppression. We must all come together to make it a reality for every girl, no matter where she is born.”
The Role of Youth for Human Rights International
In collaboration with Four Directions, Youth for Human Rights International has played a crucial role in educating young people about their basic human rights. The organization has partnered with Four Directions to spread awareness about human rights issues in conflict zones and to empower young leaders who can advocate for change.
A representative from Youth for Human Rights International elaborated on how Youth for Human Rights International works with communities worldwide to educate children about their rights. She stressed the importance of ensuring that young girls in conflict zones are not only aware of their rights but also have access to resources that enable them to fight for a better future.
“A girl who knows her rights is a girl who can change the world. Our job is to make sure they have the knowledge and the tools to do so.”
A Call to Action: Global Support for Women in Conflict Zones
The event also recognized individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to women’s empowerment. Mary Apollo emphasized that collaboration between local communities, international organizations, and policymakers is essential for achieving gender equality. She called on attendees to take action by supporting initiatives that focus on education, leadership, and economic empowerment for women in complex areas.
She also shared a powerful message about breaking negative stereotypes surrounding refugees. Many young girls who grow up in refugee camps face challenges such as lack of access to education, discrimination, and economic hardships. However, through education and mentorship, these girls can become leaders who change perceptions and contribute positively to their societies. “Refugees are not just victims; they are survivors and future leaders. We need to invest in them as we would invest in any other nation’s future”.
Key Speakers Addresses
One of the key speakers at the event was Ambassador Malik Nadim Abid, the Secretary-General for the International Human Rights Commission Fund and Trust. In his speech, he commended Mary Apollo for her leadership and dedication to supporting young women in conflict zones.
Ambassador Abid spoke about the challenges facing Africa, particularly the ongoing conflicts that have displaced millions of people. He argued that the continent’s struggles are not solely the result of external influences but also due to corruption and poor leadership. He called on young leaders to step up and take control of their future, emphasizing that real change must come from within Africa itself.
He also touched on the broader global context of conflicts and their impact on women and girls. Citing examples from various war zones, he stressed that education is one of the most powerful tools in breaking the cycle of poverty and violence. Ambassador Abid encouraged young women to use their voices to advocate for peace and justice in their communities. “The next generation of African leaders must not only demand change but be the change themselves.
Dr. Andrise Bass, the founder of the Institute of Public Policy and Diplomacy Research (IPPDR), demonstrated in her address the importance of learning about human rights, working in collaboration with others to achieve our goals.
One of the event key speakers was – Dr. Nelson O. Aluya, President of, the Nigerian American Public Affairs Committee USA (NAPAC- USC), who spoke about the power of knowledge and how fear can hold us back from education. Africans must reflect on the scenario of adapting technology and keeping their identity and beliefs.
Dr. Aminata Bash-Taqi, a mental health doctor based in the US, talk about the stigma of mental health and the importance of mental healthcare and support to these refugee women and children.
Ashatu Kabu, Founder and Executive director of ZEGCAWIS from Nigeria, stated that our African women’s agenda is similar and we must work together to solve it.
The Beijing Declaration and Women’s Rights.
Ambassador Malik Nadim Abid referenced the Beijing Declaration, a landmark document from the Fourth International Women’s Conference held in 1995. He highlighted key articles, including:
- Article 3: Advancing equality, development, and peace for all women.
- Article 14: Affirming that women’s rights are human rights.
- Article 29: Committing to prevent and eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
- Article 131: Addressing women and armed conflict, emphasizing the need for world peace and human rights protection.
While these documents serve as important frameworks, he noted that many governments fail to implement them effectively. He urged global leaders to honor their commitments and take concrete actions to protect women in conflict zones.
A Global Perspective on Women’s Empowerment
A key takeaway from the event was that while international support is crucial, sustainable change must come from within affected communities. Empowering local women to lead initiatives ensures that solutions are tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Change.
As the event concluded, Mary Apollo reiterated the need for continuous efforts to support girls’ education in conflict areas. She thanked the UN Assistant Secretary-General, the event’s partners, and attendees for their commitment to the cause. She encouraged everyone to stay engaged in advocating for education and leadership opportunities for young women.
The “Girl’s Education in Conflict Areas 2025” side event at CSW69 served as a powerful reminder that education is a key driver of change. By investing in young women, we invest in a brighter and more equitable future for all.
The fight for gender equality and education in conflict zones is far from over. However, through collaboration, advocacy, and action, organizations like Four Directions, Youth for Human Rights International and Cornerstone Mount Group continue to pave the way for a world where all girls, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead.
Written by Olivier Nouydjalbaye Dedingar, USA/UN Correspondent.
