Young Women's World Forum - Day 2

The Young Women’s World Forum 2010 has begun in spectacular style! Delegates enjoyed an inspirational welcome to begin their journey – keeping in mind the days’ theme of exploration they heard from Liz Burnley, Chief Guide of Girlguiding UK. She welcomed them to this very special event, which forms part of Girlguiding UK’s centenary celebrations. They were then treated to an address from Jo Swinson MP, who spoke to the delegation about the power that women have to inspire and be leaders. She also gave them an insight into the life of a young female politician and said she was sure there were several future leaders present at the Forum!

Later in the morning a series of external partners including Oxfam, Plan UK and White Ribbon Alliance spoke to the delegates to give them an insight in to each of the 8 MDGs; this proved to be a great foundation from which to spark conversations in the afternoon sessions. Delegates then broke off in to smaller groups and were joined by facilitators, NGO partners and academics to discuss a series of questions such as “What should the priorities be to lift people out of poverty?” and “How can gender equality be achieved?” Delegates began putting their ideas for recommendations on paper in preparation for the rest of the week when they will be refining and voting on the key issues to include in the declaration.

In the evening, the delegates were invited to a very special celebration to end Girlguiding UK’s centenary, which has been taking place since September 2009. They joined Girlguiding UK’s 500,000 members around the country in renewing their promise at 20:10, 20/10, 2010! The night was a great chance for everyone to enjoy themselves and get to know each other and was rounded off in style by an awesome firework display.

What one thing would you do to improve gender equality?

Delegates enjoyed an interactive activity at the WAGGGS stand. They had to answer one of two questions: ‘What one thing would you do to improve gender equality?’ and ‘How can we take action to prevent violence against girls and young women?’. The delegates posted their answers on our pin board. They were then filmed explaining their answer. You can watch the delegate from Grenada, Crystal Braveboy, talking about female empowerment:

You can also watch the delegate from St Vincent and the Grenadines, Athalie Caine, talking about violence against girls: