The Women Leaders Forum at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management (KDIS) is one of several clubs at the institution. To mark the closing of the spring semester, a discussion event on gender-based violence (GBV) was held, bringing together students and guests to exchange perspectives and consider approaches for support and prevention.

Held in Lincoln Hall, the event focused on how GBV is experienced across different cultural and societal contexts. The main objective behind organizing the Women Leaders Forum event was to initiate open and inclusive conversations around gender-related issues across different cultures. The goal was to encourage participants of all genders to listen, share, and reflect on their experiences while addressing stereotypes and structural challenges. Through activities such as discussion groups, expert lectures, and wellness workshops, the club aims to bridge understanding and co-create solutions that resonate globally but also feel personally relevant. Participants shared personal experiences, discussed cultural norms, and reflected on ways to support survivors.

The Forum is led by Areeb, a GKS Global Network Scholar from Pakistan pursuing a degree in Public Policy, and co-led by Nana Yaa Agyenim Boateng from England, a Public Management student with a background in mental health triage in the UK.

When asked what motivated them to lead the club this semester, Areeb said, “The inspiration to lead the Women Leaders Forum came from a deep desire to cultivate community—especially for those who often feel like they’re navigating in silence. As someone who has personally wrestled with the tension between cultural expectations, personal ambition, and emotional resilience, I understand how isolating it can feel when your struggles aren’t voiced or validated. Many of us carry invisible challenges related to gender, identity, or culture. I wanted to create a space where those realities could be voiced openly and respectfully.”

Nana added, “As someone who worked on crisis intervention and mental health triage, I’ve seen how important it is to approach these topics with empathy and understanding. At the same time, data-driven support and clear communication are essential for building long-term solutions.”

The discussion addressed several key themes, including cultural perceptions of GBV, barriers that prevent victims from speaking out, and the importance of inclusive dialogue. The format allowed for open discussions, participant reflections, and anonymous questions.

Jan Mohammad, a MPM student from Afghanistan, had this to say: “It was my first time attending the Women Leaders Forum, and I was truly impressed by the strong sense of solidarity and respect among the participants. The environment felt safe and inclusive, where everyone could share their thoughts openly. The discussions were meaningful, and even when addressing serious challenges, they were handled with mutual understanding and maturity.”

He went on to state a key takeaway from the activity: “The most important lesson I learned is that although women still face many challenges in today’s world, there is hope. We can still take action to advance women’s rights and reduce these challenges. It reminded me that change is possible when we work together and raise awareness.”

Sharing similar sentiments, Raditya Priyambodo from Indonesia noted, “A key message from the forum is the importance of fostering mutual understanding between genders. Efforts to address gender inequality require more than support and encouragement; they demand a genuine comprehension of the complex challenges that individuals face. Progress may be more attainable when both women and men engage in active learning and dialogue around these issues.”

The event highlighted the need to create environments where survivors are believed and supported, and where violence is openly recognized and addressed.

When asked what activities will be undertaken by the club in the summer semester, Nana said, “We’re planning to build on the foundation we’ve laid by introducing more interactive and community-driven events. These may include collaborative workshops on mental and physical health, storytelling circles, cross-cultural mentorship programs, and expert-led sessions on professional development and gender equity. Additionally, we’ll continue with our Anonymous Letter Box and Weekly Newsletter initiative, which has served as a gentle yet powerful tool for expression and support.”

The Women Leaders Forum is open to all KDIS students. “We’re trying to build a space that adapts to the needs of our community,” Areeb said. “Whether someone wants to attend an event, write anonymously, or just read the newsletter, they should feel like they’re part of the conversation.”