UN Conference
UN Conference: My Sister’s Health Watch
Theme: Leave No Women’s Issues Behind
Date: 14 March 2016
Venue: United Nations Headquarters, New York
On 14th March, Sally Chiwuzie, author and founder of the #Unshakable Movement, delivered a keynote presentation at the United Nations Headquarters in New York during the My Sister’s Health Watch Stakeholders Forum. The forum, themed "Leave No Woman’s Health Issues Behind," was attended by notable figures, including Senator Aisha AlHassan (Mama Taraba) - the late Nigerian lawyer and politician who served as Federal Minister of Women Affairs from 2015 - 2018, Omolewa Ahmed, founder of the LEAH Foundation, and Her Excellency Dame Cécile La Grenade, the Governor General of Grenada.
Sally’s Reflections on the Event:
"In March 2016, I had the honour of addressing the United Nations at the annual My Sister’s Health Watch Summit, a gathering aimed at ensuring that no women’s health issues are overlooked. I was invited as the Founder and Leader of the Together We Are #Unshakable Women’s Movement—an intimate global empowerment group—and as the author of Silent Symphonies, my debut novel, which portrays the realities faced by everyday women.
I presented myself as a subject matter expert on women’s holistic well-being, using Nigeria’s women’s health budget as a case study. My speech amplified the voices of influential Nigerian women like Oluremi Tinubu and Dr. Abiola Akinyode, who advocate for the reformation of the women’s health budget across Nigeria and Africa.
I emphasised the urgent need for reform, particularly focusing on the 3 A's of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3): Accessibility, Availability, and Affordability. It’s time to reassess how the budget is allocated to better meet the needs of our evolving society. Drawing on insights from Professor Jasper Chiwuzie’s research on maternal mortality, I highlighted the critical role of raising awareness, as noted by Omolewa Ahmed of the LEAH Foundation.
We must promote mass health education for women, utilising schools, community outreach programs, religious organisations, corporate settings, and public spaces such as markets—places where this information is often scarce. Additionally, there is an urgent need to foster healthier lifestyles, focusing on exercise, balanced nutrition, and self-actualisation.
In alignment with the views of the guest of honor, Alhaja J Al-Hassan (Mama Taraba), I stressed that women’s health is not just a health issue but a human rights issue. We must address domestic violence, gender-based violence, and all forms of discrimination head-on. Women must be liberated from societal boxes that stifle their potential, voice, and empowerment.
I concluded my speech with these words:
'My name is Sally Chiwuzie, and I am #Unshakable. This means that I understand that the ultimate responsibility for my well-being lies with me. Through the power of storytelling, we can light the way for one another, understanding that everything starts with self-love, the key to holistic well-being. Bobby Kalotee once said, "There is no greater gift than good health," and I wholeheartedly agree. So, in support of our theme, Leave No Woman’s Health Issues Behind, I end with the motto that promotes holistic health: Be #Unshakable. Be true to yourself. Love yourself.'
It was an immense honour to be invited to join My Sister’s Health Watch as a contributing stakeholder, representing Together We Are #Unshakable. I am grateful for the award bestowed on me and I accept this trophy with great humility. I am committed to continuing this important work both online and offline."
See photos.A Night of Stories
In November 2015, Sally Chiwuzie hosted the inaugural 'A Night of Stories', an unforgettable evening filled with captivating storytelling, poetry, live music, and engaging interactive games designed to provoke thought and spark conversation. The event brought together a vibrant community, fostering deep connections through creativity and shared experiences.
The night didn't end there—guests enjoyed the chance to network, socialise, and dance well into the evening, making it a truly immersive and memorable experience.
The event was highly anticipated and widely promoted, including a feature interview on BEN TV, which can be viewed here
See videoThe event was widely anticipated and advertised, including an interview with BEN TV which can be found here.
See photosBook Readings and Signings
Before the world was interrupted by the pandemic, Sally Chiwuzie embarked on a series of highly anticipated book reading and signing events. Among the most memorable were two standout gatherings: one in the bustling heart of Lagos, Nigeria, and the other in the iconic neighborhood of Chelsea, London. These intimate events provided a unique opportunity for readers to connect with Sally, as she brought her words to life and shared the deeper insights behind her work.
Though temporarily paused, these book readings are certain to make a return in the future, continuing to inspire and connect communities across the globe.
See photos