More than 6,000 individuals from around the world have convened in Kigali for the Women Deliver Conference, with an additional 20,000 participants joining remotely. While the official start date is July 17, pre-events were held on Sunday, July 16, focusing on the theme of "Spaces, Solidarity, and Solutions.”

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Participants from the various events held discussions on a wide range of topics including health rights, women empowerment, Female Genital Mutilation, and climate change. They shared their expectations and expressed what they hope the conference will address and implement in relation to their concerns.

Mtisunge Mikaya (Malawi)

Being in this space is a deeply personal journey for me as I strongly believe in advocating for the health and rights of women, girls, and key populations. I recognise that in order to foster gender equality and equity in the wider world, it starts with me.

Growing up in a country with social restrictions and my experience as a young girl working in a diverse environment, I anticipate gaining valuable insights on effectively engaging various stakeholders to enhance the health and rights of diverse population groups.

Deborah Hagit Adler, Rwanda-based Israeli researcher

My main interest is in women’s situations everywhere around the world. Regarding the Women Deliver Conference, I am concerned about where women are in various professions. A world where women are on the sidelines rather than at the forefront implies a world dominated by men. Women should empower themselves by raising their voices, pursuing diverse professions, and breaking boundaries to accomplish anything that men can. I am excited about this conference and I hope to see how women can improve themselves.

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Sadia Hussein, Founder and Executive Director - Brighter Society Initiative (Kenya)

As a survivor of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), I stand in solidarity with women who have experienced this horrific practice, and I am dedicated to empowering them. Additionally, I urge global action to eradicate FGM, in order to protect future generations from enduring the same traumatic experience.

I have high expectations that the Women Deliver Conference will provide hope and support for women who have suffered in silence. As a survivor of FGM, I believe that the global call to action at the conference will lead to the identification of grassroots organisations dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of women and girls.

Alisa Tukkimaki, National Director - End FGM Canada Network

My expectations are figuring out how to come together in collaboration. I come from Canada, and my interest is really in bridging the gap between what’s happening in Canada and African countries.

Gary Barker, CEO –Equimundo (USA)

We came to meet with colleagues to launch studies on the reports on the engagement of men in the care economy. There is still work to be done to achieve full equality for women. When it comes to the hands-on care in our homes every day, there is much to do to ensure equality for women. I hope that from the conference, we will redouble our efforts to understand how much care, in particular, is central to empowering women. Plus, how we need men and boys to do their share of the work in homes.

Grace Valentine, 16 – (Kenya)

I believe this could be a learning experience for me.

Some problems are not only where I come from, but prevalent worldwide. The efforts being made to address these issues are influenced by various situations occurring globally. I believe that finding a solution related to climate justice is crucial in order to ensure the best living environment for future generations. As young people, we are the future leaders, and we desire a secure, healthy, and suitable environment to live in, as well as a place where our children can thrive. I encourage my fellow young people to be open-minded and never conceal anything that makes them uncomfortable. It is important to speak to older individuals about the issues we face, and collaborate with them to find solutions.

Mark Gachagua (Kenya)

Helping people understand the reality of climate change and how each individual can contribute to ensuring climate justice, access to energy, addressing water shortage, and paying attention to their surroundings are some of the ways to achieve lasting solutions.

Since the younger generation will bear the largest burden of climate change, having them present is advantageous.

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Women Deliver is not only a mix of various issues but also a collection of solutions. Therefore, I expect these solutions to be clearly and coherently expressed in the different sessions. It would be great if young individuals like ourselves, who are actively involved, are also engaged in these discussions.