Attending the 68th annual Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City was an extraordinary experience. Representing CYDA at this global forum was not only an honor but also a crucial step in amplifying our efforts to use technology for gender equality and women’s empowerment. This being CYDA’s first participation in an international platform, we made a significant impact and forged valuable connections that will drive our mission forward.
The theme of CSW68, “Innovation and Technological Change and Education in the Digital Age for Economic Empowerment to Achieve Gender Equality and Empowerment of All Women and Girls,” resonated deeply with CYDA’s vision. We strongly believe that technology, when harnessed effectively, can bridge gender gaps and create unprecedented opportunities for women and girls. Throughout the event, I had the privilege of engaging in multiple discussions and panel sessions, each reinforcing the urgency of leveraging digital transformation for gender equality.
One of the most insightful sessions I attended was the panel discussion on “Gender-Based Data Crucial for Developing Intersectional Digital Spheres Reflecting Women’s and Girls’ Identities and Lives.” The conversation underscored the importance of collecting and utilizing gender-specific data to design digital platforms that are truly inclusive. Without such data, digital advancements risk being developed without considering the diverse experiences and challenges faced by women and girls. This session reaffirmed CYDA’s commitment to integrating gender-sensitive approaches in all our digital initiatives.
Beyond the sessions, I had the opportunity to connect with representatives from various organizations dedicated to gender equality. Engaging in conversations with passionate individuals from around the world was incredibly inspiring. Their insights and experiences highlighted the collective efforts required to dismantle structural barriers that hinder women’s progress. These discussions also opened doors for potential collaborations, enabling CYDA to scale its impact in India and beyond.
Our participation at CSW68 was not just about sharing CYDA’s work; it was about learning, networking, and gathering global perspectives that will inform our future initiatives. The exposure to international best practices reinforced the importance of aligning our programs with global strategies to ensure maximum impact. Moving forward, we aim to integrate these learnings into our work, focusing on digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and advocacy for policy changes that promote gender equity.
UN Women India, UN Women USA, and Ford Foundation Joint Discussion at CSW68
One of the most memorable experiences at CSW68 was participating in the joint discussion hosted by UN Women India, UN Women USA, and the Ford Foundation. This event was a testament to the power of global collaboration in advancing women’s leadership and economic empowerment. The highlight of the discussion was the launch of the “Hum” book, a publication that celebrates the stories and achievements of women leaders across different sectors. The book serves as a source of inspiration and a call to action for organizations worldwide to invest in women’s leadership.
The discussion brought together policymakers, activists, scholars, and private sector representatives, all committed to fostering gender-inclusive leadership. Key topics addressed included dismantling systemic barriers such as gender bias, discrimination, and the lack of access to leadership opportunities for women. The session also emphasized the transformative impact of mentorship and sponsorship programs in nurturing women leaders.
The launch of the “Hum” book was particularly symbolic, as it reinforced the collective commitment to amplifying women’s voices and experiences. By sharing narratives of resilience, innovation, and leadership, the book provides a roadmap for aspiring women leaders, showcasing that breaking barriers is possible with the right support and determination.
As the discussion concluded, I had the privilege of expressing CYDA’s dedication to advocating for policy reforms, implementing gender-sensitive leadership programs, and fostering an inclusive culture in workplaces and communities. The event reaffirmed the importance of collective action and the need to engage all sectors—government, civil society, and the private sector—in advancing gender equality.
Impact and Way Forward
Reflecting on my participation at CSW68, I am more convinced than ever that technology, innovation, and collaboration are key drivers in accelerating gender equality. The discussions, insights, and connections gained from this experience will significantly influence CYDA’s strategic direction in the coming years. We plan to:
- Enhance Digital Literacy for Women and Girls – Expanding programs that equip women with digital skills to participate fully in the digital economy.
- Advocate for Gender-Inclusive Policies – Engaging policymakers to ensure technology-driven solutions are designed with a gender lens.
- Foster Leadership Development – Implementing mentorship programs that support women in leadership positions across sectors.
- Leverage International Partnerships – Strengthening collaborations with global organizations to share best practices and scale impact.
Attending CSW68 was a transformative experience that reinforced the need for sustained efforts in gender equality. By embracing technology as an enabler, advocating for systemic change, and fostering inclusive leadership, we can create a future where women and girls are empowered to thrive. CYDA is committed to playing a leading role in this journey, ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind in the digital age. (This article is contributed by Ms. Priya Kothari, CEO YouthAid World Wide and Board member YouthAid Foundation, India)
