Empowering Women: My Experience with the OSCE Peace Leadership Programme

When I joined the OSCE Women’s Peace Leadership Programme, I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I knew that this would be an opportunity to deepen my skills and perspectives in peacebuilding. Looking back, the journey was transformative in ways I hadn’t anticipated. It was not just a series of training sessions—it was a community, a space for reflection, and a testing ground for resilience.

The programme brought together women from diverse backgrounds, each with a story of commitment to making a difference. From our first sessions, I felt both the strength of this network and the responsibility that comes with being part of it. Every person in the room was there because they were driven to lead, often in difficult and even dangerous environments. Listening to their stories and sharing mine was both humbling and inspiring, reminding me that the struggles and victories of peace work are rarely solitary.

The OSCE team and mentors structured each session to dig deep—not only into the “how” of leadership but also into the “why.” One of the most memorable moments was our training on the Community Resiliency Model, where we explored the links between trauma, resilience, and leadership. This wasn’t just theory; it was a chance to understand how stress and trauma can shape our decisions and interactions. In a field like peacebuilding, where the stakes are so high, this awareness is essential.

Another highlight was the fireside chats with mentors, who shared not only their knowledge but also their missteps and challenges. These conversations underscored that resilience in leadership is about being adaptable and staying grounded, even when things don’t go as planned. These insights are things I can carry into my own work, whether in high-stakes meetings or day-to-day community building.

One of the most valuable aspects of this programme was how it amplified each of us professionally and personally. In every session, I felt a renewed commitment to using my voice effectively, and by the end, I gained a stronger sense of purpose and the tools to sustain it. The experience strengthened my confidence, especially as a young woman working in peace and conflict areas. Knowing I am part of a network of women leaders who understand the complexities of this work is incredibly empowering.

The programme reminded me that peacebuilding isn’t only about strategies and policies; it’s about the people behind them, their resilience, and the communities they aim to uplift. Thank you to the OSCE team and everyone who contributed to this experience. This was a journey of growth, and I’m grateful to be part of a network dedicated to a more peaceful, inclusive world.