CanWaCH delegation at CSW70: Five questions with Shreya Rao

The largest annual global gathering on gender equality and women’s empowerment, the seventieth session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) brought together governments, civil society organizations, experts and activists from March 9 to 19, 2026. CanWaCH was pleased to join the session and support the attendance of youth and delegates from organizations across our membership. The following Q&A is part of a series of interviews with members of the CanWaCH delegation. Read all of the delegation’s insights on Write to Thrive.

Why did you want to attend CSW70?  What drew you to being part of the CanWaCH delegation? 

I feel a sense of responsibility to my community and seek to authentically represent the voices of young women, racialized people, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I’ve been volunteering at CARE Canada for almost two years on the SHE SOARS project, which is focused on holistically advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights. Coming to the United Nations (UN) is the dream of many and being recognized in this way is such an honour. To ensure my impact is heard, I always try to be brave, speak up when I see injustice, and invite more youth to the conversation. 

What was a moment at CSW70 that made you stop and think differently about an issue? Did you hear a perspective that challenged your assumptions or changed your mind?

The most valuable moments at CSW70 happened between structured events. Through reflections and side conversations with policy makers and civil society organizations, I learned about unique struggles and experiences I wouldn’t have a chance to learn about. 

Building on my localized perspective on sexual and reproductive health with global insights has expanded and deepened the solutions I can replicate in my own community. 

If you had to describe CSW70 in three words, what would they be?

Engaging. Motivating. Exhilarating.

Events like CSW70 bring together people from around the world. When did you get a chance to network and what did that look like on such a large scale? 

The BEST networking opportunities were at the events designed to be social and casual. My approach was to always come in with a very positive energy and to simply get to know people in the room. Naturally, that turned into opportunities to connect, grab dinner and deepen the connections.  

Based on your experience at CSW70, what advice would you give someone else attending their first large global event?

I would say it’s extremely hard to find opportunities for young people to represent our communities at these sorts of global events. The very fact that you are there is an immense privilege and something to be incredibly proud of. With that, really believe in yourself and have the audacity to ask for the change you wish to see in the world. Fear is a limiting belief. If you are in that room, you deserve to make sure the world knows why.

Connect with Shreya on LinkedIn or Instagram!