In the midst of war, when fear and division are at their peak, the need for moderate, tolerant voices is more urgent than ever – and women are often leading that space.

In a recent webinar co-hosted by Women Champions for Change (WCC) and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, eight women from Jewish, Palestinian, Lebanese, and Iranian backgrounds came together in conversation – not despite the moment, but because of it.

They explored storytelling as a form of leadership: challenging dominant narratives, humanizing the “other”, and creating space for empathy across divided communities.

What emerged was a clear message – storytelling is not just expression, it is strategy. It shapes what we believe is possible.

This conversation reflects what WCC is building: a growing network of women across the MENA region working together to shift narratives and strengthen a more inclusive and peaceful future