From Showing Up to Shaping the Future

A single act or voice does not define leadership.

Leadership is shaped over time by those who learn the systems, build relationships, and imagine what could be, not just continue with “what is.” The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) reflects that kind of leadership. Something that is grounded in persistence, born of vision and collaboration.

From its earliest days, CSW was envisioned to be more than a forum for discussion. It was to be a permanent space where priorities and solutions could inform and form global policy, and it would do so from lived experience.

That vision was advanced by leaders working together across nations and perspectives: with individuals who understood that equality requires a structure and intention.

Among those early voices were leaders who shaped the human rights framework of the United Nations.

Eleanor Roosevelt can be counted among those whose work reinforced the importance of recognizing our rights and responsibilities and helping to develop the framework that would eventually become CSW.

Equally important were the many international leaders who ensured that the status of women globally would have its own platform. A platform that was not to be sidelined or absorbed into broader agendas.

Leadership grows through engagement.

The connection between early leaders and CSW today is not about a title or position. It is about vision.

Leadership at CSW has always grown by engaging, by listening before speaking, by learning before leading, and through collaboration across differences to move ideas forward.

Attending sessions, observing discussions, and engaging with global perspectives are the early stages of leadership. Every person who shows up, virtually or in person, gains insight into how advocacy works on an international scale.

From that understanding comes confidence and, while some might say confidence begats influence, I believe it leads to impact.

What does this mean for NFBPWC?

As members of NFBPWC, our connections to CSW place us within an ongoing legacy of leadership and vision. Some members attend CSW as spectators. Others support parallel events or collaborative efforts. All will bring ideas back to clubs, committees, and communities.

Every role matters.

Leadership does not require doing everything. It requires intentional participation.

Showing up is how leadership begins. Staying engaged is how leadership shapes the future.

Your January CSW Call to Action:

• Take one intentional step toward leadership:
• Show up for a CSW70 session (virtually or in person)
• Speak up by sharing one insight with your club or committee
• Connect with another member to explore shared advocacy interests
• Step forward by supporting a CSW-related initiative

One Choice. One Voice. One Moment at a time. Leadership grows through action.

Barbara J. Bozeman
National President
2024-2026