On the cover of this landmark issue is Ilwad Elman who is one of the most important leaders of our time. Ilwad grew up like an “average” girl in peaceful Canada, but at 19 heard the call to go back to her native Somalia to work fearlessly for peace, equality and economic empowerment in a nation still struggling with Al-Shabab, patriarchal attitudes, and gender-based violence.
Eight years later, she has helped bring about unprecedented legal and societal changes while serving as a director at the Elman Peace & Human right Centre, Mogadishu. Ilwad also serves as a UN Peacebuilding Fund advisor.
This Issue is dedicated to African youths - Especially to those living in the diaspora. Please read/listen to Ilwad’s story, and never forget that you are important. Or doubt that you are POWERFUL.
