Maharashtra United Nations Association (MUNA) joins hands with Women Graduates Union WGU) to celebrate and observe International women's Day 2019 at Colaba Mumbai on 14 March, 2019.

The event started with National Anthem by Dr. V.S. Rege of MUNA and observance of one minute of silence for Martyrs. Then it was followed by welcome address by President of WGU Mrs. Bina Thadani, who welcomed everyone and gave insight about WGU activities.

Mr. A.A. Syed, Secretary General of MUNA elaborated about activities of MUNA and praised the work of women by Urdu poetry, " Wajud e Zan se hai Kaynat mein rang" which means that the universe is colourful because of women.

Ms. Megha Patil, Member Governing Council of MUNA read out the excerpts of message of UN Secretary General Mr. António Guterres, she also highlighted the role of women in the modern era with special focus on equal remuneration rights for working women and she explained that a strong women is one who has a voice but that's what is missing.

Chief Guest, Smita Godrej Crishna in her address focused on the inclusive growth of women and advocated for equal rights and services for women.

Special guest Adv. Kanchan Pamnani encouraged women to come out and work in the society inspite of all the hurdles, discrimination and any disabilities. She gave her own example the inspite of losing her eyesight at the age of 34, she managed to achieve law degrees and continued her journey as a successful lawyer.

The later part of the evening witnessed a panel discussion based on the UN theme, " Think Equal, Built Smart and Innovative for Change". Adv. Ashraf Ahmed Shaikh, Hon. Secretary, MUNA and President of its Youth Wing introduced the panelists and congratulated all the women on the occasion of women's day which falls on 08th March, every year In his speech Adv. Ashraf encouraged women by saying that, " every women should strive for equal rights since women contribute about 50% of the world population".

The panelist were, Adv. Nilufer Bhagwat, Zahabiya Khorakiwala, MD Wockhardt Hospitals, Yasmin Saifullah, MD Global Trade Links, Vinay Vasta, Director, NGO SAI, Shubika Bilkha, Partner EdpowerU. The discussion was moderated by Bharti Thakore, CEO, New Millennium Education Partners.

The evening concluded by performances from students of WGU Study Centre and on this occasion awards for innovative women of 21st century was given to three women achievers, Radha Kapoor Khanna (creative Entrepreneur) Lina Ashar (educationist) and Shaili Chopra, Journalist and founder of SheThePeople.TV Online Channel.

Vote of thanks was given by Dr. Chainani, Treasurer MUNA.

The event succeeded in the providing networking opportunities from the women present in the function from different walks of life like medicine, police , academia, social sector, law, diplomatic corps, student community, journalism, industry and other related fields. They exchanged ideas and explored collaboration opportunities over dinner.

Report by,
Adv. Ashraf Ahmed Shaikh
Hon. Secretary,
Maharashtra United Nations Association (MUNA) and
President of (Maharashtra United Nations Youth Association).