WFWP DC and Benin Women’s Group Celebrate International Women’s Day at Fraser Mansion
On Saturday, March 15, 2025, the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Washington DC Chapter, in collaboration with the Benin Women’s Group, hosted a special program in celebration of International Women’s Day. The event took place at the historic Fraser Mansion, home to the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office.
The evening was organized by Elizabeth Aihe, Chairwoman of the WFWP DC Chapter, with support from Wasana Catalan, Justine Adeyanju, and Bernice Codjia of the Benin Women’s Group.
Following a light dinner, attendees gathered in the main hall, where Elizabeth Aihe welcomed guests and invited Mr. Francis Catalan to deliver the invocation. Beth Akiyama, Executive Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, gave opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of human rights for women and youth.
The program began with a stunning musical performance by professional violist Makiko Taguchi, accompanied by pianist Jung Yeon Joo.
Guest speaker Andrea Seiger, Principal of Urban Safari, presented Women’s Work: Inventors and Innovators, spotlighting trailblazing female inventors and their often-overlooked contributions to society.
Another musical interlude by Taguchi and Joo gracefully set the tone for the next speaker, Dr. Angelika Selle, National Advisor for WFWP USA and Founder of the Transformative Vision Initiative. Her talk, Bridging Worlds – Women’s Role in Peacemaking, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Elizabeth Aihe and explored women’s divine and historical roles in fostering peace.
Dr. Selle shared her experience visiting Benin in 2004 for a racial reconciliation conference, and reflected on the spiritual power of women as peacemakers. She highlighted notable figures such as Marie Curie, Maria Montessori, Ellen White, Harriet Tubman, and Benin’s Queen Idia.
Quoting WFWP founder Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, she said, “True peace comes not from competition but from embracing our natural gifts—harmony, healing, and reconciliation.” She described Dr. Moon’s global advocacy for peace, including a moving visit in 2018 to Gorée Island, Senegal, where Dr. Moon offered a prayer for the souls of enslaved Africans and for the healing of Africa. Dr. Selle emphasized the unique role of women’s wisdom and compassion in peacebuilding, encouraging guests to read Dr. Moon’s memoir, Mother of Peace.
Justine Adeyanju delivered closing remarks on behalf of the Benin Women’s Group, highlighting the power of unity and women’s empowerment. “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide. Together, we rise,” she affirmed.
The evening concluded with a heartfelt rendition of You Raise Me Up by soprano Ahna Stewart, dedicated to all women present, including her mother, Mrs. Matilda Stewart.
After the program, guests enjoyed refreshments and networking. Attendees praised the event as well-organized, uplifting, and empowering.
Ms. Meauvell Tate, who attended with her granddaughter, shared, “I enjoyed the enlightenment, positive energy, and time with WFWP women. Thank you, Ms. Aihe, for inviting us!”
The WFWP DC Chapter extends heartfelt thanks to guest speakers Dr. Selle and Ms. Seiger; Wasana Catalan for preparing dinner; the Church of Scientology for hosting; the WFWP MD Chapter Trinity team (Andrea Rissenen, Emiko Butler, and Marianne Goldberg); the musicians; and all participants who made this celebration a resounding success.
