Amina Shafigina, a student of the International Relations program, participated in a UN Women project within the framework of the global initiative Girl Takeover Day, which aims to expand girls’ participation in public and leadership activities. During the event, participants had the opportunity to symbolically take on leadership positions and raise important social issues relevant to modern society.

“By participating in the UN Women project within the Girl Takeover Day initiative — a global initiative where girls take on leadership roles and raise important social issues — we discussed pressing challenges in Kyrgyzstan: bride kidnapping, early marriages, violence, bullying, and gender stereotypes. I spoke on behalf of those who are still unable to speak for themselves, those who face silence and pressure.

It was important that this was not just a conversation — UN Women heard us, and our ideas and proposals will be considered and incorporated into future programs and projects. Our words became more than just words; they became part of future change. For me, participation in this project is not simply presence — it is influence. My voice is heard, and it works for change.”