One of the twelve 2017 Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Awardees is visiting San Diego

Military, mother, and United Nations peacekeeper, Major Ousmane exemplifies what it means for a woman to serve on the front lines of conflict and peace-building. She has not only helped people deal with the trauma caused by conflict and the threat of violent extremism, including Boko Haram; she also understands the deep need for social services to pave the way to recovery for families affected by war and conflict.

Major Ousmane was honored by First Lady Melania Trump joined by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon on Wednesday for her steadfast devotion to healing those wounded by conflict and terrorism, for demanding social services for those left to suffer the consequences of war in order to prevent further violent extremism.

“Women’s empowerment is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic investment in our collective security. In short, when women do better, countries do better. Women’s security is a matter of international security. Without it, we all lose.” – Under Secretary of State Thomas Shannon at the International Woman of Courage Award Ceremony 2017

For more on the award: https://www.state.gov/s/gwi/iwoc/2017/index.htm

Exchange Programs – U.S. Department of State