The Malmar Knowles Family Foundation and The Kectil Program were honored to participate in “A Future at Risk: Reinvigorating Global Action for the Rights of the Child” at UNICEF House, 3 United Nations Plaza, New York, during the Eightieth Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80).
Executive Director Sherry Knowles and Director Brooke Shafer attended this impactful event, hosted by Sweden in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Silvia and co-sponsored by UNICEF, Save the Children, and the World Childhood Foundation. The gathering brought together UN Member States, civil society, and youth advocates to renew commitments to children’s rights amidst overlapping global crises.
Distinguished speakers included Dr. Isata Mahoi (Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Sierra Leone), Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid (UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children), Catherine Russell (UNICEF Executive Director), and other global leaders alongside inspiring youth representatives. Discussions highlighted urgent challenges facing children worldwide and emphasized the need for coordinated, innovative solutions to protect their rights, wellbeing, and future opportunities.
The KECTIL Program is proud to advance this mission, showcasing that defending children’s rights is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in peace, health, and prosperity. Through advocacy, collaboration, and youth engagement, KECTIL continues to demonstrate how committed leadership can address critical global issues and drive transformative impact for the next generation.