How did I become an activist for girls’ rights? by Rea Sylejmani

I am Rea Sylejmani, 17 years old from Ferizaj. I have been a member of the ROR group since April 2018. My membership in the ROR group on many issues nationally and internationally has led me on so many incredible journeys that have completely changed me as a person and a budding young woman.

Last year (2019), I was chosen by ROR members with an internal vote to represent our country in the European Week of Action for Girls (EWAG).

EWAG is about creating a space for young activists to bring their voices to EU decision-makers and help shape a better world for all girls. Through a range of policy, advocacy and campaign activities, EWAG partners and young advisors aim to push the EU to respect and expand its commitments on gender equality and the protection of girls. “This means doing more, investing responsibly and recognizing the active role girls play in their communities and societies.”

Rea together with other girls participating in EWAG 2019 in front of the European Parliament building in Brussels, Belgium

This event also enabled me, through a speech, to address the ministers of the European Parliament. It was a wonderful opportunity that truly reflected the voices of many children and young women everywhere. This was my first trip outside of Kosovo and Brussels really left a very good impression on me!

Addressing the ministers in the European Parliament, together with two other advocates.

At the beginning of 2020, I also joined the Children’s Advisory Team, a permanent structure created by the Child Right’s Connect network based in Geneva, Switzerland. I am the only member from Kosovo and I have created a very close friendship with other members from all corners of the world such as from South Africa, Mongolia, England and Bangladesh. This international group is essential for the advancement of the recognition, protection and strengthening of the protection of children’s rights, including through the participation of children at national, regional and international levels.

Rea’s story about the time spent in quarantine entitled “Our Lives under Lockdown”, published in the UN newspaper in Geneva, as part of the #GenevaPerceptionChange project

This year I was part of an event organized in honor of the International Day of the Girl Child. It was an intergenerational virtual dialogue to mark this day with the theme “Focusing girls’ voices in the international system”. The main question addressed by this event was how to ensure that the international system is inclusive, relevant and relevant for the next generation, placing girls’ voices and their rights at the center of decision-making processes?

I had the opportunity to ask a question to the Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund, Ms. Diene Keita from Guinea, regarding the meaningful participation of girls and young women in quality and inclusive education and the creation of training within these environments and communities and how this will allow girls to participate more in society.

“I think these events really helped me to be a voice for all the girls who are silent and in these opportunities I always try to be as inclusive as possible.”

Virtual dialogue in honor of the International Day of the Girl Child (October 11, 2020).

My participation in these events would not be possible if it were not for ROR. I say with a lot of heart that ROR is my main motivation to learn, work and advocate for the good of my country. ROR is and will remain the main reason I am who I am today.

And for every child who wants to be part of us, I tell you to always take the opportunity to apply. Every word, every step, every connection can be a life changer for you!