Leymah Gbowee began organizing Women in Peacebuilding Network (WIPNET) in 2001 in Liberia, at a time when the Liberian people were completely traumatized and overwhelmed by the country's 14-year civil war.

At great risk to her life, Leymah was at the forefront of a historic sit-in for peace in 2003 by Liberian women, that occured during harsh weather, and posed great risk to her life. They had gathered to protest the stalemate in peace talks between militias and government forces who together perpetuated Liberia's civil war, which caused the internal displacement of over a million Liberians, and brutal violence against women. WIPNET eventually led to the formation of Women Peace and Security Network Africa (WIPSEN-Africa), a pan-African organization based in Ghana, with chapters in Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Liberia. In working with grassroots women across religious and community lines, the group ensures that women, who bore the brunt of violent conflicts and wars, have a place at the table in peace processes in post-conflict Liberia. Today, WIPSEN is a leading force in women's call for peace.

"	A lesson we have learned from this war is that we have to fight to make sure that we are on par with men. We cannot become complacent. And we can't underestimate our power to do good," affirms Leymah in an interview.

WIPSEN is one of the grantees in attendance at the gala. Read about our other grantees who will also be participating at our 20th anniversary fundraising gala in New York.

Frequently Asked Questions Jobs Contact Site Map RSS Privacy Policy