Dan Sloan, an English Language Fellow hosted at the Lao Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA), participated in International Women’s Day events with government officials, staff, and students. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a lunch that provided several hundred people the opportunity to mingle, eat delicious Lao foods, and discuss the accomplishments and challenges of Lao women.
Later, a formal event was held at IFA, where awards were given to individuals who demonstrated significant achievements pertaining to women’s rights and issues. After the presentation of monetary awards, flowers, and gifts, the participants joined in a meal, sang karaoke, and enjoyed telling stories in English. The men also gave red and pink roses to the women in the room to show recognition for their achievements.