Early this March, the 3rd annual Women in the World Summit was held for three days, bringing together some of the biggest names in business, politics, women's rights, journalism and social media activism. This inspiring global event was hosted by Newsweek and the Daily Beast, and panels covered topics ranging from issues facing women in business, politics, to a host of international issues impacting women around the world.

Speakers included Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, Nobel winner Leymah Gbowee, acclaimed Egyptian writer, activist and psychiatrist Nawal El Saadawi, Madeleine Albright Sheryl Sandberg, Angelina Jolie and many many more.

IMF chief Christine Lagarde shared her insights into the global economic crisis and the need for more women in positions of political power. Israeli opposition leader Tzipi Livini spoke to historian Simon Schama about Israel’s current crisis and position in the world. Mexican congresswoman Rosi Orzoco recounted her battles against sex trafficking. Somali activist Dr. Hawa Abdi was honored for her tireless work saving lives in one of the worst conflict zones in the world, and Hilary Clinton shared inspiring stories of women working all over the world to make a difference.

After watching some of the video highlights from the Summit, I was inspired to collect a few of them to share here on my blog, as well as linked resources for those who would like to learn more. There were some great speeches made during the Summit worth being honored.


I was especially moved by this opening address to Hilary Clinton, given by one of my all time favorite actresses, Meryl Streep. The speech honored the Secretary of State for her tireless work as an advocate for the rights of women and girls around the globe, as well as acknowledging the struggles Hilary has faced as a female politician.










This speech by Hilary Clinton was also very moving as she recounts her meetings with women across the globe who are doing amazing work to support and encourage the rights of women and girls.








And finally, Angelina Jolie's honored speech, recognizing the amazing story and work of Somali Doctor and activist Hawa Abdi.

 




The 2012 Women in the World Summit was an event filled with inspiring and diverse stories of struggle and achievement from women all over the world who are working for change.

It is worth taking a moment to listen, watch and read about some of their stories.

These women's stories of unyielding courage, dedication and leadership in the face of brutal opposition linger in my heart and mind as I carry on with my own day and think about my own work and service in the world.
These are some of the fearless females of our era~ the movers and shakers of our social and political world, and I am certainly on board for this revolution...

 
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