THE EDIMAR PRINCESSE GRACE CENTER (CEPG) passionately and wholeheartedly commemorates International Women’s Rights Day.
On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the CEPG was filled with vibrant energy in celebration of the 40th International Women’s Rights Day, held under the inspiring theme: “For all women and girls: rights, equality, and empowerment.” This day, marked by a rich and diverse program of activities, offered the women of CEPG a unique opportunity to raise awareness, inform, mobilize, and contribute to rebuilding emotional bonds.
A DIVERSE AND INSPIRING PROGRAM
From 10 a.m., under the moderation of Kelly KETCHANG, Educator and Communications Officer, participants began the scheduled activities.
In her solemn opening speech, Executive Director Mireille YOGA thanked the women of CEPG for their deep involvement in the Women’s Rights Day initiative.
On this special day, each educator at CEPG assumed the sacred role of “mother” for a group of children who, for the occasion, became her children. Each mother ensured the proper care and guidance of her group, aiming to awaken a longing for home life among the youth. To the young participants, she reminded them of how important they are to the CEPG, encouraging them to fully embrace the heartfelt experience of being “mothered for a day.” She invited them to think lovingly of their own mothers, whether living or passed on.
WOMEN'S VOICES TO RE-EDUCATE, REINTEGRATE, AND INSPIRE
The program continued with a presentation by Séraphine TCHUIDJANG, Educator in charge of activities. She spoke to the audience about the origins of the March 8 celebration. It was a powerful, emotional moment that allowed the youth to learn about the long struggle of women to have their rights recognized.
Madame Charlotte ABANG, the educator who initiated this celebration at CEPG, explained the reasons and significance behind this initiative, which aims to rekindle the feeling of family life. She highlighted that in its early days, the CEPG faced extreme violence from youth living on the streets.
Today, if the behavior of these young people has significantly improved, it is largely due to the hard work of the educators—many of whom are women. Their sensitivity and approach have proven essential in the re-education and reintegration of the youth at the center.
THE ECHO OF WOMEN AND THE FLAVOR OF LOVE
The film “Maimouna” by Rodrigue TCHASSEM, which addresses awareness of girls’ rights in Cameroon, was proposed by Ms. Daniela MIGOTTO, psychologist at CEPG. The screening served as a starting point for a rich and insightful discussion.
To further explore these conversations, eight workshops were organized. The reports shared by selected speakers from each group highlighted the vibrant culture and remarkable capacity of our youth to engage with issues that directly concern them—especially those affecting women.
The day ended with a shared meal, lovingly prepared by the “mothers for a day” alongside the youth, all under the coordination of Madame Marthe NDJE NDJE, head of the Welcome Program, and her team.
It was a symbolic moment, filled with warmth and empathy. This day rekindled in the youth an irreplaceable human need: the presence and care of an attentive, loving mother. That silent longing could be seen on their faces and felt in their hearts.