I firmly believe today that the only way to stop violence against women is to speak out and refused to be silenced.

If half the society isn't engaged on any number of sectors, success and potential will be limited. In that sense, I do definitely believe there is a growing movement and moment for women's issues.

Only 1 in 13 participants in peace negotiations since 1992 has been a woman.

Being a leader for me is about having the courage to speak the truth, and live the truth, despite attempts to silence our thoughts, feelings, and past experiences.

Without women's full inclusion at the decision making table, we cannot have any healthy decision making that is good for men and women alike.

Long-term trauma for women who have survived armed conflict is a haunting reminder that health issues and depression can follow decades after the end of war, but women who hope for healing can and do move forward.

Only 8 percent of peace talks have included women at any level.