The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) was established in 1946 as the principal global intergovernmental body dedicated to advancing gender equality, women’s rights, and the empowerment of women. This annual gathering plays a key role in promoting women’s and girls’ rights, documenting their lived realities, and shaping global commitments to gender equality.
Huda Ahmed, a Programme Officer at Women Action for Advocacy and Progress (WAAPO), based in Somaliland, attended CSW69. At The Girl Generation–ALM, we believe in providing global platforms for those at the forefront of change in their communities and most affected by gender-based violence.
In this post-CSW69 question and answer, we asked Huda to share her reflections—from the visa application process to her experience at CSW69, and the actions she’s taken since. Here are her thoughts
How was your experience with the visa application process?
My experience with the visa application process was smooth. The TGG-ALM team helped me fill out the DS-160 and provided the invitation letter. Initially, my interview appointment was scheduled after the CSW, but the team informed me about expediting it. The embassy approved my request, and the rest of the process was straightforward after submitting my documents.
What advice would you give other advocates who want to engage in global platforms such as CSW?
For advocates wanting to participate in global platforms like CSW, I suggest starting early by researching visa requirements, deadlines, and necessary documents to prevent last-minute issues. Get support from organizations assisting with your attendance, as they can offer guidance on applications, funding, and advocacy strategies. Finally, prepare well, have clear reasons ready if you need expedited processes, and practice your key messages for the panel discussions to make a strong impression.
Did you feel overall supported to prepare your trip as well as your engagement at CSW?
Yes, I felt fully supported in preparing for my trip and CSW engagement. The TGG-ALM team sent my flight booking and reservation well in advance, and I was given the flexibility to extend my stay after CSW at my own cost. I also knew ahead of time who would be picking me up from the airport, which made the process smooth and well-organized.
Making her voice count- Huda’s reflection
This was my first time participating in CSW69, and I’m grateful for the support from the TGG-ALM team, which made the experience memorable.
I felt well-prepared to participate in CSW69 because I had ample time to prepare in advance, including guidance calls and clear direction on my discussion points. However, as my first time engaging at the UN and speaking with like-minded advocates, there were natural stressors; navigating such a high-level platform was new to me. Despite that, the prior preparation helped me feel confident in my contributions.
Joining global advocates and champions to advance the rights of women and girls at CSW69 was both inspiring and motivating. While it was my first time engaging at this level, sharing ideas with like-minded changemakers reinforced the power of collective action. There were moments of pressure like speaking in UN spaces felt daunting but hearing diverse perspectives and adding my voice to critical discussions reminded me why this work matters. The experience deepened my commitment to advocacy and showed me the importance of global solidarity in driving change.
As a speaker in TGG-ALM-led engagements, which speaking opportunities stood out to you and why?
The most significant opportunity was speaking at the UN Joint Programme on Ending FGM (UNJP) and The Girl Generation high-level side event panel on ‘Reviewing Progress, Accelerating Pace, and Strengthening Alliances’—a crucial discussion on proven solutions to end FGM through strategic partnerships and empowered movements. Sharing the stage with leaders like Dr. Kakenya Ntaiya, H.E. Dr. Peace Regis Mutuuzo, and Patrecia Pena was a true privilege. Their expertise and dedication heightened the urgency of our collective mission, and the dialogue underscored how cross-sector collaboration can speed up change. As a first-time speaker at this level, it was both humbling and empowering to contribute alongside such influential voices in the gender equality field.
Did you feel that safeguarding was adequately addressed throughout your engagements?
Yes, safeguarding was well addressed throughout my engagements. Before CSW, we had a counselor who briefed us on safety protocols and reporting procedures. At the start of each session, reminders were shared to ensure everyone was aware of safeguarding measures. This proactive approach, both before and during the event, helped create a secure and supportive environment for all participants.
What were some challenges you faced while in New York?
The event coincided with Ramadan, so I was fasting, but this didn’t hinder my full participation in panels, advocacy meetings, or networking. Secondly, I would’ve appreciated a scheduled day for group touring; exploring the city alone as a first-time visitor was exciting but also intimidating.
Did you network with other advocates?
Yes, I networked extensively at CSW69. Connecting with global advocates was invaluable. Many shared actionable resources and strategies that strengthened our work. We’ve maintained active contact since, exchanging tools and exploring collaborations that amplify our impact.
What were the key moments that stood out to you at CSW69?
The ‘Centering Girls in Advocacy’ panel, where I learned the critical importance of bringing young girls to global forums as speakers, not just speaking about them. This reshaped my approach to inclusive advocacy. The ‘Reviewing Progress, Accelerating Pace’ discussion sharing the stage with leaders like Dr. Kakenya Ntaiya and Minister Mutuuzo. Their insights on FGM eradication through grassroots movements and policy alignment reinforced the power of multi-level collaboration
Attending CSW69 provided me with invaluable new insights, partnerships, and strategies that have significantly strengthened my advocacy work. I was privileged to connect with influential leaders like Aida H. Oualate (Founder of Fondatrice), Dr. Wisal Ahmed (FGM Advisor and Global Coordinator at UNFPA), Warda Warsame (National Network Coordinator of End FGM Canada Network), and Diana Sididi (President of Derhane). While I’m already collaborating with some of these inspiring advocates, others represent exciting potential for future partnerships. One of the most impactful resources I gained was an Islamic scholarly booklet from Mecca (Haram) that addresses FGM within a religious context. This authoritative document has been transformative for my work, equipping me and my team with faith-aligned responses to counter religious justifications for FGM.
After the global stage- lessons Huda carried back home
What lessons have you shared with other champions and advocates against GBV and FGM upon returning home?
Since returning, I’ve shared critical lessons from CSW69 to strengthen our collective work against GBV and FGM. First, I emphasized the power of centering survivors’ voices inspired by the ‘Centering Girls in Advocacy’ panel, I now train WAAPO advocates to create platforms for affected women and girls to speak for themselves in spaces where decisions are made. Second, I introduced the Islamic scholarly booklet from Mecca as a tool to engage religious leaders and communities, showing how faith-aligned approaches can dismantle harmful justifications for FGM. These insights have sparked new dialogues in our networks, merging international best practices with grassroots action.
What support would help you maximize the impact of your participation after your return?
To fully leverage my CSW69 experience, strategic support would amplify our work in multiple ways: Funding to adapt tools like the Mecca scholars’ booklet through workshops and media campaigns; structured follow-ups with UNFPA and End FGM Canada Network for collaborative projects; and technical guidance to integrate survivor-centered approaches. Additionally, exposure visits to successful programs (e.g., observing Dr. Ntaiya’s grassroots model in Kenya or Canada’s diaspora engagement strategies) would provide tangible models to replicate locally. Creating platforms to share these insights with fellow advocates would multiply impact, turning CSW69’s lessons into scalable action while strengthening the global-local advocacy bridge.
Any Fun/Light Moments you had while in New York?
Oh Yes! One of my favorite things was wandering through New York’s busy streets—watching everyone rush around, totally focused on their own lives. It was funny and freeing to just blend into the crowd for a while! Between the honking taxis and towering buildings, I found moments of peace in the city’s chaos. That energy kept me going during the long CSW days.
