CASCAIS, PORTUGAL / ACCESSWIRE / November 27, 2024 / “Young Minds Africa Trust”, based in Botswana, is one of ten global grassroots initiatives recognized by the prestigious Intercultural Innovation Hub, a joint initiative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, implemented with the support of Accenture, during a Ceremony held in the framework of the 10th UNAOC Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future – Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”. The Forum convened prominent figures, political leaders, UN officials including the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, as well as representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector, to share insights and reflect on the 20 years of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations’ impactful work.
The organization was recognized for its project “Model Parliament Africa,” an innovative all-women simulated parliament programme designed to equip participants with practical legislative skills and experience. Through this initiative, Young Minds Africa Trust promotes a more inclusive society by empowering young women to engage actively in civic leadership and advocate for greater political representation. By fostering a deep understanding of political processes, the project aims to increase female participation and promote gender balance within parliaments across the region, ultimately encouraging equitable and inclusive political leadership.
“Receiving this prestigious recognition from the Intercultural Innovation Hub not only validates Young Minds Africa’s work but also provides us with the resources to expand our ‘Model Parliament’ program. We look forward to continuing to advocate for gender parity and equality in politics in the African continent,” said Laone Tiny Desert, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Young Minds Africa Trust.
The Intercultural Innovation Hub supports grassroots initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue and understanding, thereby contributing to peace, cultural diversity, and more inclusive societies. This year’s Ceremony was chaired by Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN Under-Secretary-General and the High Representative for UNAOC, and Ms. Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director.
Through the Intercultural Innovation Hub, Young Minds Africa Trust will receive a financial grant, as well as one year of capacity-building and mentorship support from UNAOC, the BMW Group, and Accenture, to help strengthen the “Model Parliament Africa” project and its contribution towards a more inclusive society. This model of collaboration between the United Nations and the private sector creates a more profound impact, as partners provide their respective expertise to ensure the sustainable growth of each supported project.
Learn more about the project: https://interculturalinnovation.org/young-minds-africa-trust-model-parliament-africa
Media inquiries:
– Milena Pighi, TeamLead and Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship, BMW Group, Milena.PA.Pighi@bmw.de
– Mr. Alessandro Girola, Chief, Programming and Projects Unit, UNAOC, alessandro.girola@un.org
SOURCE: UNAOC
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