HONORING ICONIC FIRST LADIES OF AFRICA

All women speak two languages: the language of men and the language of silent suffering. Some women speak a third, the language of queens.

Mohja Kahf

ABOUT THE EVENT

In an era where culture is increasingly recognized as vital to international relations and foreign policies, Women United Foundation dedicated an event to highlighting the power of cultural influence as a catalyst for social cohesion and meaningful dialogue. Held at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, this event celebrated the unique role of Africa’s First Ladies as cultural ambassadors who bridge nations. By showcasing the richness of African traditions and contemporary expressions, Women United Foundation demonstrated the transformative potential of cultural diplomacy.

The evening was filled with inspiring keynote speeches from prominent leaders, including the Presidents of Sierra Leone and the Central African Republic, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, both the Founder and the President of Women United Foundation, as well as the Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art. Actress Tiffany Haddish added star power to the event. A dynamic panel discussion, moderated by actress and influencer Stephanie Linus, featured the First Ladies of the DRC, Angola, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Cape Verde, and representatives from Nigeria and Namibia. The event also enjoyed the presence of Congolese musical artist Fally Ipupa and representatives from Capitol Hill, making it an extraordinary celebration of leadership and cultural heritage.

The celebration honored the First Ladies' extraordinary contributions to promoting African heritage on the global stage, underlining their leadership in creating a shared vision of cooperation and mutual respect. It was an inspiring and powerful gathering led by Women United Foundation that recognized these remarkable women and their pivotal role in shaping a culturally vibrant and interconnected world.

Pictured: Women United Foundation Founder and Executive Director, Deborah Elizabeth, H.E. Fatima Maada Bio First Lady of Sierra Leone, H.E. Ana Loureço First Lady of Angola, H.E. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow First Lady of The Gambia, H.E. Débora Katsia Carvalho First Lady of Cape Verde, H.E. Denise Tshisekedi First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Madam Aisha Rimi, representing the First Lady of Nigeria, H.E. Aisha Buhari.

President Julius Maada Bio

Keynote Speech President of Sierra Leone

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President of Sierra Leone

At the ‘Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa’ event held at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone delivered a heartfelt and inspiring speech on the importance of women in leadership. He shared a personal story about losing his mother at a young age and how other remarkable women in his life stepped in to raise him. Their strength, care, and guidance played a crucial role in shaping him into the leader he is today.

President Bio emphasized the pivotal role that First Ladies play in supporting their husbands, the leaders of nations. He highlighted how their support, wisdom, and dedication empower these leaders to govern more effectively and compassionately. He spoke about the unique challenges and responsibilities that First Ladies face and how their contributions often go unrecognized, stressing that Africa needs these incredible women now more than ever to exemplify strong leadership and drive positive change across the continent. His moving words celebrated the essential role of First Ladies in nurturing and supporting future leaders, leaving the audience with a deep appreciation for their strength and influence in shaping a united and resilient Africa.

President Faustin- Archange Toudéra

Keynote Speech President of Central African Republic

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President of Central African Republic

At the 'Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa' event held at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra of the Central African Republic delivered an inspiring speech on the importance of education and the involvement of women in government. He shared a personal story about the transformative power of education in his own life, highlighting how access to learning opened doors and shaped his journey. He stressed that similar opportunities must be extended to every child in Africa, particularly girls, to unlock the continent's full potential.

President Touadéra emphasized the essential role that women play in governance, noting that their perspectives and contributions are vital for effective leadership. He passionately advocated for more women to be involved in decision-making processes, highlighting the unique insights and strengths they bring. He pointed out that empowering women through education benefits not only them but also their families, communities, and nations as a whole.

In a heartfelt conclusion, President Touadéra expressed his deep admiration for the First Ladies of Africa, recognizing their support, wisdom, and dedication. The President celebrated their significant yet often unrecognized contributions to national leadership, urging everyone to appreciate and bolster their efforts. His words left the audience with a profound appreciation for the critical role of women in building a brighter, more resilient future for Africa.

Deborah Elizabeth

Keynote Speech Founder of Women United Foundation

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Founder of Women United Foundation

Deborah Elizabeth, Founder of Women United Foundation, opened the "Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa" event with a heartfelt keynote. She warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and emphasized the importance of not just honoring but listening to the First Ladies. Quoting Arundhati Roy, she stated, “There is really no such thing as the voiceless… There are only the deliberately silenced, or the preferably unheard,” emphasizing the power of collective female voices and the necessity of providing an international platform for African First Ladies to share their narratives, reshape conversations, and drive social cohesion through cultural diplomacy. This mission is what prompted Deborah to found Women United Foundation.

Deborah praised the First Ladies for their leadership and solutions-driven actions, noting their unique perspectives and ability to address critical issues such as gender-based violence and child marriage. She acknowledged their role in leading "women-led" and "women-implemented" projects that harness Africa's human capital. She cited the African Women Business Union (AWBU) as a prime example, where the mission is women-led and women-implemented, guided by Africa's First Ladies and executed by the continent's leading businesswomen. These First Ladies, she remarked, are not just representatives but social warriors courageously championing change.

In closing, the Founder urged the audience, including notable guests from various sectors, to support the First Ladies' initiatives and continue the conversation beyond the event. She acknowledged key attendees including the Heads of State and Ambassadors in attendance, celebrating the beginning of continuing milestones for the Women United Foundation, which is honored to have the support and involvement of Africa's First Ladies.

Daphna Edwards Ziman

Keynote Speech President of Women United Foundation

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President of Women United Foundation

During her keynote address, Daphna Edwards Ziman, President of Women United Foundation, passionately shared her lifelong dedication to empowering and protecting women and children. With decades of experience advocating on Capitol Hill, she emphasized the vital role of strong advocacy and legislation in driving real change and pointed out how policy-making is crucial for addressing issues like gender-based violence, economic inequality and human trafficking a problem she has addressed personally for decades, even authoring The Gray Zone, a New York Times bestselling book on the subject. She stressed that women's active participation in legislative processes ensures that these policies are comprehensive and effective, bringing about tangible improvements in the lives of vulnerable populations.

Daphna Ziman recounted a personal story about her visit to Kinshasa, DRC, which profoundly impacted her. Witnessing the challenges firsthand motivated her to take further action, leading her to found Justice for Women International. She described her time in Africa as transformative. Her message was clear: as women, our fight is shared, and our strength lies in unity.

In her concluding remarks, Daphna Ziman commended the First Ladies for their crucial role in championing the rights of women and children. She spoke passionately about her firm commitment to supporting them, urging for collective action and active involvement in their initiatives.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield

Keynote Speech United States Ambassador to the United Nations

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United States Ambassador to the United Nations

At the 'Honoring the Iconic First Ladies of Africa' event at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield highlighted the pivotal role of First Ladies in Africa, describing them as the heart and soul of the continent. She emphasized the importance of honoring these women for their efforts in empowering other women across Africa, which in turn drives economic growth, advances democracy, and fosters peace. She praised their commitment to addressing pressing challenges, from food insecurity to climate change, and stressed the need for women to be at the forefront of decision-making processes.

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also reflected on the significance of the venue, the African museum, noting how it connects us to our past, our ancestors, and their stories of pain, joy, and beauty. She shared her personal connection to African art, having collected many pieces over the years, and expressed her admiration for the resilience and strength of African women. She highlighted the example of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female president of an African country, whom she has admired since her first trip to Africa in 1978. Thomas-Greenfield noted her own historic role as the first female U.S. ambassador to Liberia, where she built meaningful relationships with women leaders rebuilding their country from civil war to peace and prosperity.

In her moving remarks, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield stressed the necessity of having women not just at the decision-making table but at its head. She called for a future where women are best represented in government, both in Africa and America, and recounted a conversation about breaking barriers for women entering politics. She concluded by thanking the First Ladies for their dedication to uplifting women, supporting their husbands, and advancing cultural diplomacy, which collectively strengthens the people of Africa.

Tiffany Haddish

Celebrity Support

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Actress, Philanthropist, Author and Comedian

Spontaneously taking the stage, Tiffany Haddish delivered a heartfelt speech infused with her signature humor, bringing smiles to everyone present. She expressed her deep connection to Africa, sharing that her father is from the continent, and emphasized her support for the First Ladies. Tiffany highlighted her commitment to Africa by founding a technology company aimed at creating jobs, showcasing her dedication to building a bridge so we can heal and grow.

Reflecting on her first visit to Africa, Tiffany shared how it made her feel complete, profoundly impacting her understanding of her roots. She conveyed that knowing where she came from reinforced her determination to contribute to the continent's development. Her presence was not just as a supporter, but as a proactive builder of opportunities for a better future.

Tiffany identified herself as more than just an actress, comedian, songwriter, author, and philanthropist. She sees herself first and foremost as a human, particularly as a woman, committed to making a difference. Her heartfelt message showed her dedication to standing by the First Ladies of Africa.

Moderator Stephanie Linus engages in a dynamic discussion with H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço, the First Lady of Angola, on the importance of financial freedom for women at the "Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa" event. Their exchange highlighted strategies to empower women economically and the pivotal role financial independence plays in advancing broader societal change.

HONORABLE PANELISTS

The panel discussion at the "Honoring First Ladies of Africa" event, moderated by Nollywood actress Stephanie Linus, was an inspiring exchange on the importance of culture in Africa and the roles of First Ladies as cultural ambassadors. They explored how cultural representation influences health, education, and policymaking, including addressing gender-based violence and child marriage, and promotes women leaders in government. The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art served as the perfect backdrop, immersing attendees in African culture and enhancing the discussion's significance. The First Ladies also expressed their eagerness to work closely with the African Women Business Union (AWBU), a women-led and women-implemented initiative founded by Women United Foundation, to implement these changes on the ground.

The First Ladies emphasized that promoting African culture instills pride and identity, leading to better health outcomes and educational achievements. They showcased how art and fashion represent Africa globally, influencing policies that integrate cultural preservation into national development. Their initiatives empower women, motivating future leaders and breaking barriers, with a call for continued support and recognition of cultural initiatives to advance Africa's progress.

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Stephanie Linus

MODERATOR

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Stephanie Linus, a renowned Nollywood actress and filmmaker, skillfully moderated the panel at the "Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa" event. Known for her dynamic presence both on-screen and off, Stephanie brought her expertise and charisma to the discussion, ensuring a compelling and engaging exchange of ideas. Her deep understanding of cultural issues and her advocacy for women's empowerment made her the perfect choice to lead the conversation. Stephanie has received numerous awards for her acting and filmmaking, and she is a passionate advocate for women's rights and health issues across Africa.

Throughout the panel, Stephanie Linus adeptly guided the dialogue, highlighting the significant roles of the First Ladies in promoting African culture and addressing critical issues such as health, education, and gender-based violence. Her insightful questions and thoughtful comments helped to draw out impactful stories and strategies from the First Ladies, making the discussion both inspiring and informative.

H.E. Fatima Maada Bio

INTERNATIONAL SPOKESPERSON OF WOMEN UNITED FOUNDATION

Deborah Elizabeth, Founder of Women United Foundation, introduces First Lady of Sierra Leone Fatima Maada Bio to US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield. H.E. Fatima Maada Bio is responsible for the United Nations declaring November 18 as World Day Aimed at Ending Child Sexual Exploitation and Violence, bringing hope and healing to survivors. This moment signifies the powerful and impactful roles African First Ladies play in driving global change and advocating for critical issues.

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The First Lady of Sierra Leone, H.E. Fatima Maada Bio, delivered a powerful speech addressing the urgent crisis of early marriage in Africa. With courage, she called upon African First Ladies to unite and declare this a national and continental emergency, breaking the silence that has allowed this issue to persist. The First Lady's words resonated deeply as she shared her own harrowing experience, not as a spectator but as a survivor, underscoring the dire need for immediate action. She emphasized the necessity of naming and shaming perpetrators, ensuring they face justice, and proclaiming, "Enough is enough."

Since this impactful panel, the President and First Lady of Sierra Leone have enacted significant reforms, including a law against early child marriage and the establishment of a fast-track court for perpetrators. As the international spokesperson for Women United Foundation, H.E. Fatima Maada Bio epitomized the organization's mission to amplify the voices of First Ladies and support their vital work. Women United Foundation remains dedicated to confronting critical issues like early marriage, empowering women, and driving transformative change across Africa. Through collective action and steadfast advocacy, we aim to ensure that the voices of women are not only heard but lead to substantial societal progress.

H.E. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi

FIRST LADY OF DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

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As the First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, H.E. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedipassionately spoke about the transformative power of education in empowering women. She shared the impactful work of her initiative, Excellentia, which provides international scholarships to students in the DRC, highlighting how education opens doors and creates opportunities that can lift entire communities out of poverty.

H.E. Denise Tshisekdi emphasized that despite some progress, there is still a long way to go. She called for a united effort to ensure every girl has access to quality education, stressing the unique role First Ladies play as the "mothers of their nations." By leveraging their influential positions, First Ladies can champion educational causes, mobilize resources, and break down barriers that prevent girls from learning.

Her inspiring words made a compelling case that educated women are key to sustainable development and gender equality. When women are educated, they contribute significantly to their communities and economies. First Ladies, as the faces of their nations, have the power and responsibility to lead these educational initiatives and transform the lives of millions of young girls across Africa.

H.E. Fatoumatta Bah Barrow

FIRST LADY OF THE GAMBIA

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During the panel discussion, H.E. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, the First Lady of the Gambia, Peace Ambassador of Women United Foundation, and President of Africa's First Ladies Peace Mission, highlighted the essential role of the peace process in Africa's stability and development. She emphasized how First Ladies can utilize their unique influence to promote peace and reconciliation within their countries.

H.E. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow spoke passionately about the need for unity and collaboration among First Ladies to address conflicts and foster a culture of peace. She pointed out that their influence goes beyond ceremonial roles, allowing them to support peace-building initiatives at the grassroots level.

She called on her fellow First Ladies to continue their advocacy for peace, demonstrating that when women lead and unite for peace, they can bring about lasting change and stability across the continent. Her insights reinforced the significant impact First Ladies can have in the peace process.

H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço

FIRST LADY OF ANGOLA

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Drawing from her extensive experience in the financial sector during the panel discussion, H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço, the First Lady of Angola, shared profound insights on the importance of financial freedom for women. H.E. Ana Dias Lourenço voiced her support for the Women United Foundation initiative "Bank Every Woman," highlighting the importance of financial education, access to credit, and opportunities for entrepreneurship in empowering women.

She stated, "As First Ladies of Africa, we have a unique platform to champion women's financial freedom and influence policy changes. Through advocacy campaigns, collaboration with lawmakers to promote supportive policies, and partnerships with international organizations and the private sector, we can mobilize resources and implement effective programs. By advocating for financial education, access to credit, and entrepreneurship, we can drive significant improvements in women's economic independence."

H.E. Débora Katsia Carvalho

FIRST LADY OF CAPE VERDE

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Deborah Elizabeth, Founder of Women United Foundation, First Lady of DRC H.E. Denise Tshisekedi, and US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield unite at the "Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa" event. This powerful gathering showcased the unwavering support for Women United Foundation, emphasizing the collective strength and inner power of women when united in purpose and action.

First Ladies H.E. Fatima Maada Bio and H.E. Denise Tshisekedi share a moment of laughter, capturing the sisterhood and joy they experience when together. Their bond reflects the unity and strength they bring to important occasions like this, where they come together to support and uplift each other. The warmth and connection between these remarkable women inspire hope and solidarity as they lead initiatives to empower women across Africa.

H.E. Débora Katisa Carvalho, the First Lady of Cape Verde, and Ngaire Blakenberg, the Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, enjoyed the museum’s vast collection of over 12,000 objects. This collection, representing nearly every region of Africa, provided a stunning backdrop for the event. Both women, prominent figures in their own right, emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and the role of African heritage in global conversations. Their presence highlighted the mutual respect and shared vision for celebrating and promoting Africa's rich cultural legacy.

During the ‘Honoring Iconic First Ladies of Africa’ event at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington D.C., First Lady H.E. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo is seen admiring the museum’s exquisite collection. Accompanying her is Stephanie Linus, the event's moderator and renowned actress, who is also featured in the museum for her contributions to African art and culture. Together, they explored the diverse and rich exhibits that celebrate the continent's heritage. Their interaction highlighted the event's theme of cultural diplomacy, showcasing the significant roles played by African women, both in public service and the arts, in preserving and promoting their cultural legacy.

President Julius Maada Bio and President Faustin-Archange Touadéra listen intently to the panelists, demonstrating their solidarity and support for the First Ladies. Their presence emphasizes the importance of the dialogue and the commitment to empowering women across Africa. Women United Foundation deeply appreciates the Presidents' dedication to this vital cause.

THE VENUE

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART

SMITHSONIAN WASHINGTON D.C.

The renowned Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, celebrated for its unparalleled collection of African art and cultural artifacts, served as the ideal setting for a memorable event honoring Africa's First Ladies. This premier institution, with its extensive and diverse exhibits, highlights the rich cultural heritage and artistic brilliance of Africa. It provided a fitting backdrop for an event that celebrated the unique role of the First Ladies as cultural ambassadors.

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Celebrating African Heritage: Iké Udé’s Nollywood Portraits at the Smithsonian

The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art proudly showcased Iké Udé's Nollywood portraits, featuring the striking image of Stephanie Okereke Linus. Udé, a Nigerian-born artist known for his vibrant and evocative portraits, explained, "She has an imposing physicality yet a sweet and positively sunny personality. Given her powerful persona, I wanted to explore the possibility of a dramatic tension."

African art is vital in cultural diplomacy, which is why Women United Foundation chose this venue to honor the iconic First Ladies of Africa. The event, moderated by Stephanie Linus, celebrated African talent, leadership, and the cultural impact of these remarkable women. This setting highlighted the importance of recognizing and promoting African heritage on a global stage.

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