Sydney I September Update
2026.10.05
From 16 to 18 September 2026, IWPG held the 2026 International Women’s Peace Conference at the Enford Hotel in Cheongju, Republic of Korea, bringing together women leaders and partner organisations from around the world, including representatives from IWPG Sydney Branch. Under the theme “Everyday Peace, Women’s Power: Shaping Global Governance,” participants shared their experiences and visions for peace while strengthening international solidarity and women’s peace leadership.
Sydney representative Ms. Shafaq Jaffery shared her collaboration with IWPG through the AusPak Women’s Association at the Global Peace Networking Reception, while Ms. Mujgan Tahery presented on Peace Education and Social Cohesion during a side event. Roundtable discussions and networking also provided opportunities to exchange ideas and build connections. Participants gained inspiration from diverse peacebuilding experiences and explored ways to continue peace education, community engagement and collaboration with IWPG in their respective regions.
Ms. Vinita Negi, Ms. Mujgan Tahery, IWPG Sydney Branch Manager, Ms. Shafaq Jaffery and IWPG staff.
Ms. Vinita Negi, Ms. Mujgan Tahery, and Ms. Shafaq Jaffery together with the IWPG Secretary General and Ms. Na Yeong Jeon, President of IWPG.
Shafaq Jaffery presenting her keynote speech at the Grand Hall during the Global Peace Networking Reception.
On 17 September 2026, Sydney representative Ms. Shafaq Jaffery delivered a keynote speech titled “From Partnership to Peace: From One Connection to a Community Network” during the Global Peace Networking Reception at the Main Grand Hall of the Enford Hotel in Cheongju, Republic of Korea.
Drawing on her collaboration with IWPG through the AusPak Women Association (APWA), Shafaq shared how a relationship built on trust and shared values developed into practical peace initiatives, including peace education, peace-through-art activities and community engagement. Her speech inspired attendees to explore how effective partnerships can strengthen local peace networks and translate shared visions into action within their own regions and organisations.
Shafaq Jaffery (left), with her daughter Ayat Jaffery (left) and IWPG protocol staff (right) during a post-event meeting.
Shafaq also expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to share APWA’s journey and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening collaboration with IWPG and developing further initiatives to promote a culture of peace.
Ms. Mujgan Tahery, representing Sydney, Australia, spoke at the side event “Peace Education and Women’s Leadership” at the Enford Hotel in Cheongju on 17 September 2026. The event brought together partners and participants from diverse fields to discuss key peace-related issues, exchange practical perspectives and explore opportunities for future joint initiatives and sustainable cooperation.
As founder and CEO of Uniting Circle Multicultural Community Centre, Ms. Tahery shared how her life was transformed through courage, education and community. After arriving in Australia from Afghanistan, she made a promise to herself: “One day, I will make a difference.” She spoke about her achievements in women’s empowerment through new arrival programs.
She highlighted the important role women play in creating safe spaces and building bridges within communities, while emphasising the importance of education for women and encouraging peacebuilding as a collective effort.
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