Photographer, Antonia Maria Nicolaides (Cyprus)
What happens when two young women in Cyprus choose collaboration over separation? Ayshe Biyikoglu and Eleni Anastasiou, raised on an island divided by over 50 years of conflict and tensions, chose to reach across the divide. With shared roots in psychology and a deep commitment to peace, they co-founded Cypology, a grassroots initiative where Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots imagine a united future.
There is a lot of solidarity between women. Women of both communities in Cyprus come together to discuss peace and reconcile. By supporting each other, we strive to bring about change and amplify our voices in a male-dominated world.”
Photographer, Rita Kalaban (Lebanon)
In southern Lebanon, an area deeply affected by recurring conflict, UN peacekeepers help to create a safer reality. One of only eight women deminers with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, Warrant Officer Ham Sievhong from Cambodia, a country with a legacy of landmine contamination, helps communities safely return to their homes and rebuild their lives.
Working in a heavily male-dominated field such as demining can present unique challenges, including being heard and having equal opportunities for advancement. Overcoming them requires persistence, resilience, and building supportive networks.”
Photographer, Jaella Fleurianna Pathé (Central African Republic)
General Ghislaine Léa Yangongo is a trailblazer in the Central African Republic’s military, as the first woman to attain the rank of General. After joining the army in 1997, she rose through the ranks to command Bangui’s Air Force base. As an advocate for women’s inclusion at all levels, Ghislaine now helps lead the implementation of the Women, 91制片厂 and Security National Action Plan.
Women in the national army have come a long way. My greatest achievement is having inspired others, giving them the motivation and courage to pursue their careers just like their male colleagues."
Photographer, UN Photo/United Nations Mission in South Sudan
Police Commissioner Christine Fossen leads the UN Police component in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. With over 30 years of service in the Norwegian police force, she has been involved the promotion of justice, fighting organised crime and now, peacekeeping. In South Sudan, she also mentors members of the mission’s Network for Uniformed Women 91制片厂keepers.
Leadership is not about rank. It’s about using your voice, protecting others and setting an example every day."
Photographer, Do Nsoseme (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Mélanie Musau Kabamba is a journalist, women’s and disability rights leader in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As president of the Professional and Production Centre for Persons with Disabilities, she champions entrepreneurship and political participation for people with disabilities, particularly women. A leader in national politics, Mélanie believes women with disabilities are vital to building peace and influencing decision-making.
I am a woman living with a disability. It gives me pride, because disability is not physical, it's a mental construct. As my mind is sharp, I consider myself a whole person just like everyone else."
This exhibit was launched in June 2025