My GWL Voices Story: Abdikheir Aydrus Sheikh

GWL Voices’ members not only have led the way to increasing women’s leadership and representation, they are also mentoring and guiding the next generations of leaders for a more inclusive multilateral system. Read the story of Abdikheir Aydrus Sheikh with GWL Voices’ member and Director General of United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) during the initiative Echoes Unheard, led by the University of Nairobi.

Abdikheir Aydrus Sheikh, Echoes Unheard Organizing Secretary, University of Nairobi, Kenya

Attending the dialogue with Madam Zainab Hawa Bangura, the Director General of the United Nations Offices at Nairobi, was truly an eye-opening experience. She spoke about how social and cultural expectations often limit women, and how important it is for society to create an environment where everyone has the freedom to achieve their potential. Her message reminded me that progress depends on breaking harmful traditions and promoting fairness to all.

I felt very inspired during the session. Listening to her story and the obstacles she has faced showed me that true leadership requires inner strength, persistence, and a clear sense of direction. What impressed me the most was the honesty in her words and the confidence she carried, which made her advice both practical and motivating.

One of the key lessons I carried away is that women’s empowerment is not only their struggle, it is a responsibility for all of us. Men also have a role to play in supporting women, questioning unfair expectations, and helping to open doors where opportunities are limited. Madam Bangura’s words made me reflect on how I can, in my own capacity, support change and contribute to building a society where ability and effort matter more than stereotypes.

Leaving the dialogue, I felt a stronger sense of responsibility. I want to use what I learned to challenge limits in my own life and to encourage others to do the same. The session gave me confidence that with persistence, boldness, and belief in our shared humanity, we can work together to build a fairer and more equal future.

I am truly grateful to GWL Voices for helping open doors to opportunities like this. It is dialogues and platforms like these that help young people like myself to grow, learn and become great leaders of tomorrow.