More inspiring stories of World YWCA Day 2010 celebrations across the globe
Solomon Islands YWCA raises over $2000
On, April 23, 2010, the Solomon Islands YWCA celebrated World YWCA Day around this year’s theme ‘Women Creating a Safe World’.
The Solomon Islands YWCA were originally planning to fundraise for their own association on this special day, however, they chose, instead, to make a donation to the Kup Women for Peace Group in Simbu Province, PNG. For over 10 years, these courageous women have been painstakingly working towards creating peace in their region - a region notorious for violent tribal conflicts, but had to suspend their activities after recent prolonged and violent fighting.
Over 150 free breakfast packs were delivered to offices around Honiara. Instead of paying for these packs, the YWCA asked the people of Honiara to make a donation, as well as to take time to reflect upon the role played by women in maintaining peace, security and safety in their communities.
‘The YWCA is proud to assist our PNG sisters in their time of need’ said Ms Alice Iwebu Kale, General Secretary of the YWCA of Solomon Islands. ‘It was not long ago that our own country experienced a long period of ethnic conflict and those around the world came to our assistance’. She added that the recent events in Simbu Province were an important reminder of the role that women play in maintaining peace and security in their communities and creating a safe world for all.
A total of $2280 was raised through donations from the Honiara public.
YWCA of Naucalpan, México, celebrates and contributes
In Naucalpan, World YWCA Day celebrations were this year exceptionally postponed, as on April 23,, 2010, the association held a workshop on sexuality and HIV and AIDS prevention for the religious community in Querétaro, as part of the event of “Sendero de Dios”. As a result, an Ecumenical Organisation invited the association to facilitate another such workshop in Guanajuato.
On Tuesday, April 27, a number of volunteers helped prepare and organise the World YWCA Day breakfast around the theme “Women creating a safe world”. The YWCA of Naucalpan’s President, Andrea Núñez Argote, delivered a speech on the YWCA movement and local YWCA activities and programmes, highlighting HIV and AIDS prevention and the eradication of violence against women.
The video message from World YWCA President, Susan Brennan, and World YWCA General Secretary Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda was important as it allowed attendants to recognise that they are part of an international movement.
The event was a great success, despite the fact that there were not enough ‘chilaquiles’ for everyone!.
YWCA of Secundreabad, India celebrates, learns and reflects!
World YWCA Day has always been a day of celebration for the YWCA of Secundreabad, India and this year was no different. The day was celebrated under the theme “Women Creating a Safe World” and along with the celebration, this year members of the YWCA of Secundreabad also took some time to reflect and learn how they can become financially independent.
The day began with a prayer by the President, Nymphea Reddy, which was followed by the hymn “Gentle Woman” a hymn about Mary, the Mother of God sung by the choir.
Guest speakers Sunita and Anuradha from Mahindra Kotak, a financial organisation based in India, then lead a session on financial planning encouraging members to become financially independent which in the long run will benefit themselves, their family and society at large.
The day continued with some entertainment by some members as they danced with eye masked to the sounds of Bryan Adams “ Do you really love a woman.” Members and guests present also enjoyed a scrumptious breakfast.
The activities ended as it began with a prayer lead by Recording Secretary, Rupali Ruth. “We choose this day to challenge our members to create a safe world,” said Nymphea Reddy, President of the YWCA of Secundreabad, and members left full of joy after a day of celebration and reflection.
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