(KPL) Representatives of adolescents, young civil society organizations, and the leadership team of Plan International convened at the Plan International Laos country office to discuss and envision the future girls want in Vientiane on Mar 4.

The event was held in advance of International Women's Day, provided a platform for dialogue, inspiration, and action towards a future where girls and women are empowered and equal participants in society.

Plan International Laos facilitated a safe space for young people from various civil society organizations to engage in meaningful discussions and activities aimed at highlighting the importance of gender equality and the role of women in shaping a better future for all. The event aimed to foster awareness and inspire action to address challenges such as gender inequality, child early forced marriage, and teenage pregnancy which impact the lives of girls and women, hinder economic growth, and perpetuate poverty.

Ms. Carol Mortensen, the Country Director of Plan International Laos, emphasized the organization's commitment to empowering adolescents and young people. "We have been working tirelessly with adolescents for over five years in Bokeo and Oudomxay Province, empowering them on sexual reproductive health and rights, life skills, girl leadership, and gender equality," said Ms. Mortensen. "We are dedicated to listening to their concerns and ideas, and we will continue our efforts until we are all equal."

The event featured discussions moderated by talented young women MCs, focusing on the aspirations of girls for their future, including living without fear, thriving in a society of equality and justice, and embracing their sexual reproductive health and rights. Attendees also had the opportunity to view powerful art pieces from a fine art competition and watch short videos from a public service announcement competition, which aimed to raise awareness about the impact of gender inequality and violence.

A young representative from the Promotion of Family Health Association, Ms. Thipphachanh Inthavong, the project manager, joined the panel discussion, which provided an interesting space to discuss issues that block girls from thriving in their future. Ms. Inthavong said "The art exhibition and short videos were gorgeous; I am impressed by how art students and young filmmakers expressed and fought gender inequality and violence against women and girls through their powerful art pieces."

Reflecting on the event, Ms. Mortensen reiterated the importance of listening to adolescents, particularly girls, in project design and implementation. "This remarkable event serves as a reminder of the necessity to care for and meaningfully include adolescents, especially girls, in our efforts," she said. "No one can truly understand the needs of girls until we actively listen to them."

Plan International remains committed to empowering girls and women, advancing gender equality, and shaping a future where every individual can fulfil their potential and contribute to a more just and equitable world.

KPL