On March 13, 2025, POWER Foundation in collaboration with Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative (SLNI) hosted a groundbreaking session at Nigeria House, New York, as part of the 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69). Under the title “From Declaration to Action: Evidence, Progress, and Gaps” the event convened together global experts, policymakers, advocates, and change-makers to engage in a powerful discourse on gender equality and sustainable progress.
This wasn’t a regular panel discussion, it was a dynamic, interactive, and solution-driven where participants were not only listeners but also contributors to the dialogue. The session explored key challenges, shared evidence-based solutions, and provided a road-map for accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. A Session Marked by Engagement and Impact
The session was opened by Ms. Hauwa Abbas COO/President Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative,( SLN) as the Convener of the event, who delivered a powerful welcome address. She emphasized the importance of turning commitments into action, stating: “At SLNI, we believe that real change happens when we translate commitments into action, especially in the areas of health, education, and women’s empowerment. We must advocate for implementation of policies that break systemic barriers, invest in solutions that empower women, and build a future where every woman, irrespective of age, race, and economic status, can reach her full potential.”
The session stood out for its interactive format, allowing deep, solution-oriented discussions between panelists, speakers, and participants.
Cynthia Amaka, representative of the United Nations Association of Nigeria, shared her experience: “I attended many sessions at CSW69, but this event was truly unique. It was engaging, impactful, interactive, and deeply educative. The SLNI team did a phenomenal job!“
Anil Wasif, one of the keynote speakers, expressed his admiration for the event’s structure: “I was mesmerized by the format how panelists and participants interacted seamlessly, making the discussions not just insightful but also actionable. This was more than a dialogue; it was a blueprint for change.“
As the session concluded, Mrs. Ezeala, Director of POWER Foundation, delivered an insightful Call to Action, urging participants to turn words into measurable progress. She emphasized the need for gender-responsive policies, meaningful collaboration across sectors, urgent investment in education, technology, and health, and transparent accountability. She concluded, “The time for talk is over. It’s time for action. Let’s move from declaration to implementation, from promises to measurable progress”
This session reaffirmed that gender equality is not just about conversations but taking actionable steps. The discussions were not only thought-provoking but also laid the foundation for real-world impact. Participants left inspired, equipped with fresh perspectives, and committed to championing meaningful change in their respective fields.
At POWER Foundation, we believe in sustaining these conversations beyond the conference halls. We invite you to stay connected and be part of our ongoing efforts to drive gender-responsive policies, education, Health and empowerment initiatives.
