Dr. Hawa Abdi's Message to 21st Century Women August 12, 2011

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Complete video at: http://fora.tv/conference/chq_2011_video_sampler

Dr. Hawa Abdi, a Somali doctor who runs a hospital and refugee camp that cares for over 90,000 people, shares her perspectives with women around the world. "I think that women can change the world in a better way now. If they have self-confidence and they know how powerful they are, they can do it," explains Dr. Abdi.

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Women's lives around the world continue to be affected by deep-seated prejudices that create inequities and abuse. This reality robs the future of valuable assets. In this week, we will examine what action is needed to empower women to reach their full potential and, by that action, improve the entire social, economic, religious, and cultural context in which they live. - Chautauqua Institution

Hawa Abdi, M.D., operates a refugee hospital and camp serving nearly 100,000 people, primarily women and children, in war-ravaged Somalia, a country that most charities refuse to enter.

Abdi came to international prominence in May 2010 for standing up to hundreds of Islamist militants who tried to take control of her camp. When she and hundreds of women dared to protest the militants' occupation, the gunmen backed down, and even submitted to Abdi's demand for a written apology.

Abdi and her daughters, Deeqo Mohamed and Amina Mohamed, also doctors, were named three of Glamour's Women of the Year in 2010. "Their unwavering fortitude in the face of insurmountable obstacles is a testament to the warrior spirit of women," said Somalia-born cosmetics executive Iman. The Glamour piece called Abdi "equal parts Mother Teresa and Rambo."

Abdi and her daughters also operate the Dr. Hawa Abdi Foundation, which aims to ensure continued health care for Somali refugees and the people of East Africa. Abdi, whose camp began as a one-room clinic in 1983, holds degrees in gynecological medicine and law.