In the Words of Sura Almadadha: “Inclusion is not merely about involving everyone — but about ensuring that every voice is heard”

Sura Almadadha, a high school student from Karak Governorate in Jordan, is already a leader in her community. At Mutah Secondary School for Girls, she serves in the school parliament, listening to classmates’ concerns and raising them to the administration to help find solutions. Passionate about football, photography, reading, research, and debating, Sura embodies the promise of a new generation of women leaders.

Her journey was shaped by opportunities made possible through UN Women’s Regional Programme entitled “Women, Peace, and Security in the Arab States”, generously funded from the Government of Finland. Under its third phase, UN Women is equipping young women and men across the region with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to champion justice, inclusion, and leadership. In Jordan, the vision comes to life through the Madrasati initiative, which has supported the establishment of vibrant student clubs, including the Human Rights Club that Sura proudly joined.

“We explored powerful themes such as equal opportunities, women’s empowerment, freedom of expression, and meaningful participation in decision-making. We also reflected on the essence of leadership—what it truly means to lead, the various leadership styles, and how to navigate challenges with vision,” says Sura.

Through this experience, Sura came to understand that leadership is about action, responsibility, and ensuring that every voice is heard. With her peers, she co-created the “Little Entrepreneur” initiative – a pioneering project that helps students transform their vocational interests into small-scale businesses. The initiative gives students a platform to sell their products at monthly bazaars, while equipping them with entrepreneurial and life skills that prepare them for the job market at an early age. The first round of student-led ventures will launch in the 2025 - 2026 academic year, creating lasting impact in schools and communities.

For Sura, the Club was also deeply personal.

“There was a time when I felt overwhelmed by my many dreams and unsure which path to take. I felt lost. But during the club’s activities, I participated in transformative sessions centered on self-discovery—where I reflected on my passions, my struggles, and the person I wanted to become. That experience helped me find clarity and direction.”

She continues:

“To every girl and woman reading this: own your worth, walk with confidence, and claim your space in the world. Trust in your strengths, even when faced with doubt or obstacles. Always protect your mental well-being and seek out spaces where your voice is respected and your growth is nurtured. It awakened something within me - a passion for leadership. I now see myself as a leader with a purpose - to uplift others and be a catalyst for change. My dream is to help build a society where every person has an equal opportunity to grow, lead, and flourish.”

Sura’s journey is a powerful example of how UN Women stands as the leading voice for women and girls in the Arab States. By investing in the leadership potential of young women, UN Women is creating inclusive spaces where girls can grow as changemakers, ensuring their voices are heard and their ideas drive community impact. Through its programmes, UN Women is transforming education environments to promote equality and participation, while fostering a new generation of leaders who are shaping societies rooted in justice and fairness. In doing so, UN Women enables every girl - like Sura - to step into her power, claim her space, and inspire others to follow.