🎤 Demanding measurable action for women and girls worldwide; Speaking before the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women to outline a clear path forward for economic and education empowerment, and ending gender-based violence. NY, 2008 🇺🇳

A roadmap for chemical disarmament. 🎤 Taking the floor at the United Nations First Committee to advocate for stronger global security frameworks, robust enforcement, and the united multilateral alliances needed to eliminate these threats for good. NY, 2007 🇺🇳

Advocating for peace. 🎤 Addressing international delegates at the United Nations Headquarters during the Biennial Meeting of States to discuss the historic Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). A vital dialogue on strengthening global control systems, curbing the illicit small arms trade, and protecting communities worldwide. 🌐✨ NY, 2010 🇺🇳

🎤 Championing efforts to curb the illicit small arms trade by urging international cooperation at the Third United Nations Review Conference on the Programme of Action on Small Arms. NY, 2018 🇺🇳

Engaged in cross-border strategic policy dialogues with NGO delegations to mitigate armed gender-based violence. NY 🇺🇳

Co-chairing the first regional disarmament conference to regulate conventional arms transfer frameworks. True peace is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of verified cooperation and trust among nations. Dr. Widad, Cairo, 2006.

Implementing strategic grassroots initiatives aimed at securing the adoption of the groundbreaking Arms Trade Treaty. NY 🇺🇳

Participating in high-level events highlighting the critical importance of robust global regulations to end the illicit trade in conventional weapons. NY 🇺🇳

Receiving the prestigious Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. 🕊️ Joining the legacy of peacemakers who have received this honor since 1964. True peace is not just a destination, but a continuous journey of building bridges and fostering dialogue across borders. Dr. Widad, USA🏅

Presented with the Davenport Mayor Medal in Iowa by Honorable Frank Klipsch for her lifetime contribution to human liberty. USA 🏅

Delivering a keynote address, charting the path forward and sharing vital insights with the next generation to drive systemic community transformation.

Accepting the International Woman Harmony Award before joining the official selection jury panel. Nurturing cultural dialogue, unity, and empowerment. Italy🏅

Observing conditions during a humanitarian field deployment to develop sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations.

Orchestrating emergency field actions and international aid appeals during the severe 2014 regional humanitarian crisis.

Bearing witness to the 2014 humanitarian crisis, Dr. Widad kept advocating for the displaced Yazidi, Christian, and minority civilian populations while pausing to honor those who lost their lives to the sea, fleeing in search of safety.

Leading strategic grassroots initiatives aimed at building a lasting culture of justice and reconciliation to uplift marginalized voices. By equipping local leaders and fostering deep, honest dialogue, Dr. Widad is laying the groundwork for systemic healing, transforming shared pain into collective strength and measurable progress.

Fostering a new generation of healthy leaders through public engagement and education.

🎤 Redefining leadership by standing firmly on the frontlines with survivors of violence.

🎤 Addressing systemic injustice and advocating for structural change to ensure safety, dignity, and equity at the core.

Exchanging perspectives on strength and leadership during local heritage celebrations.

🎤 Giving voice to the voiceless. Taking to the airwaves to share stories that are too often silenced, and ensuring that those on the front lines of crisis are never forgotten.

Connecting with readers and leaders to spread the message of healthy leadership.

Investing in futures: supporting the Billion Signs initiative to raise crucial funding for children in conflict zones—a reality facing over 500 million children globally.

Uniting with NGO delegates to strengthen community foundations through shared vision and purposeful action.