On March 25, 2025
the United Nations observed the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities endured by millions and the enduring impact on subsequent generations. The UN Secretary-General emphasized the importance of acknowledging this dark chapter to address contemporary issues of racism and inequality.

Nicole Ross attended the commemoration, paying homage at the “Ark of Return,” the permanent memorial at the UN Headquarters in New York. With Queen Mother Deloris Blakley 84 years young of Harlem along with dignitaries . The “Ark of Return “Designed by architect Rodney Leon, this solemn structure invites visitors to reflect on the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. Nicole’s presence highlighted her dedication to confronting historical injustices and their modern ramifications.

TD Bank HQ ,New York Vanderbilt building

Before the commemoration, Nicole participated in the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) at the United Nations. March 8-21 UNHQ New York

This annual gathering focuses on promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women worldwide. Nicole’s involvement was particularly notable during a parallel event organized by Hands Across Philadelphia ,The Justina Mutale Foundation and the world summit on women and girls , Held at TD Bank HQ emphasizing the advancement of female leadership.

During CSW69, Nicole engaged with representatives from various embassies, fostering international collaborations aimed at empowering women and youth:

 

Photo : Minister of gender & social development Peace Mutunzo Uganda minister of women’s empowerment &family Cameroon minster of energy &mineral development Caroline Mugisha Cameroon ,Melvin Mwajiri NGO coalition at UN , youth ambassador of Cameroon Velvetta Viban

Uganda House: Nicole met with the Ugandan Minister’s to discuss implementing training programs in non-traditional trades for women. Recognizing that many women are primary providers for their families, they explored initiatives to equip them with skills in fields traditionally dominated by men, thereby enhancing household incomes and breaking cycles of poverty.

 

Nigeria House: At the Nigerian mission, Nicole addressed the importance of supporting youth. With candid conversations with women’s Soccer legend Judith Chime of Nigeria ,She advocated for proper scouting and fair contract negotiations to prevent exploitation. By ensuring young athletes receive equitable opportunities, the benefits can extend to their communities, fostering economic growth and social development.

 

Zambia House: Education and public-private partnerships were the focal points of Nicole’s discussion with the Zambian Minister’s and H.E Dr.Justina Mutale ,they deliberated on strategies to train youth for future jobs, particularly in agriculture and technology sectors, to prepare them for the evolving global economy.

 

Cameroon House: Nicole’s dialogue with Cameroon’s Minister of Mining centered on integrating women into the mining industry. Citing statistics indicating a 40% productivity increase and a 25% reduction in accidents when women occupy specialized positions, they explored training programs aimed at empowering women and promoting safer, more efficient mining operations.

Each house means the permanent embassy of each country.

CLARENCE HOLBERT AS THE 2022 DAVID RITTENHOUSE AWARD HONOREE

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/david-rittenhouse-award-honoring-clarence-holbert-tickets-252223917527

 

It has been a pleasure to work With the Frederick Douglas Family . They have a Special Bicentennial Edition of The Narrative of the life of Frederick Douglass , An American Slave.

Working to get the book into the hands of One million Young People is a Very lofty Goal, I am very proud to be a part of this mission. if you would like to sponsor books to be given to youth ,please email handsacrossphiladelphia@aol.com or 267-251-6900

 

 

 

The Power of Female World Leaders

Every girl and every woman needs to read this book and pass it on to the next girl and the next woman to read it. In this remarkable ground-breaking book on female leadership, the author intellectually celebrates the emerging power of female world leaders on the global political landscape.

She chronicles the remarkable achievements of a few brilliant women leaders who have employed mostly soft leadership skills to unleash remarkable transformation in their own lives and those of others, using the instrumentality of sheer industry, uncommon courage, unrivaled compassion and indomitability of spirit.

Essentially, this book aims to inspire and motivate a new generation of women all over the world through the stories of these iconic female leaders, who have made the world a kinder and fairer place with their brilliant personalities, ideas and achievements.

Proceeds from the book go to the Scholarship Fund at the Justina Mutale Foundation to help disadvantaged young women and girls from Africa access tertiary education across the globe.