Her Majesty Honored with Prestigious Award on 25th Anniversary as UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador; RENEW Evolves to RENEW Plus
March 8, 2025 – On International Women’s Day, a momentous celebration marked Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck's 25 years of dedicated service as the UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador. The event, attended by key figures from the Royal Government of Bhutan, international organizations, civil society organizations (CSOs), youth volunteers, and community leaders, commemorated Her Majesty’s extraordinary contributions to vulnerable communities and the advancement of gender equality.
Her Majesty, founder and president of RENEW, has been a driving force for positive change across Bhutan and beyond, championing initiatives that empower women, girls, and marginalized groups. The anniversary celebration served as a testament to her unwavering commitment and profound impact.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of RENEW's evolution into RENEW Plus. Her Majesty articulated her vision for this expanded initiative, stating, “With this next phase, RENEW Plus will extend its support beyond women and girls to include men, boys, the LGBT+ community, and people with disabilities. It embodies our broader commitment to promoting choice, dignity, and empowerment for all.” This strategic expansion reflects Her Majesty’s comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs within Bhutanese society, particularly concerning access to reproductive healthcare, education, and protection.
The celebration also featured a dynamic panel discussion titled “Translating Gender Equality Commitments into Action.” Distinguished panelists from the Cabinet Secretariat, the Royal Civil Service Commission (RCSC), the Ministry of Finance, and CSOs shared valuable insights on transforming policy commitments into tangible outcomes. The discussions underscored the government’s ambitious plans to further gender equality and reinforced the collective dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable society.
The event concluded with attendees expressing renewed inspiration from Her Majesty’s enduring legacy and forward-thinking vision. Her 25-year journey as UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador stands as a powerful testament to her profound impact on countless lives and her unwavering dedication to building a better world.
Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck continues to be a beacon of hope and a true champion of humanity, equality, and progress.
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