Hajer Sharief, Libya’s fearless advocate for youth and women in peacebuilding, stands among Africa’s most inspiring women, breaking barriers and redefining what leadership looks like on the continent.
Her name resonates with courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to human rights, a beacon for millions striving for justice and inclusion.
Born and raised in Libya, Hajer witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of conflict on communities, especially women and young people.
Determined to make a difference, she dedicated herself to promoting peace, equality, and civic participation, refusing to accept the limitations society placed on her generation.
Hajer’s advocacy journey gained momentum when she co-founded Together We Build It, a platform empowering youth and women to actively participate in peacebuilding.
Through this initiative, she has mobilized countless young people across Libya and beyond, fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and collective action in environments marred by violence and political instability.
Her work has not gone unnoticed. Hajer was appointed by the UN Secretary-General to serve on the Advisory Group of Experts for the Progress Study on Youth, Peace, and Security under UNSCR 2250.
She is also one of twelve UN Women Champions on Women, Peace, Security, and Human Rights, recognitions that highlight her exceptional leadership and the global impact of her efforts.
Hajer’s influence extends to her role as a public speaker and thought leader, where she challenges traditional narratives, advocates for youth-led solutions, and demonstrates that meaningful change is possible when communities come together.
Her initiatives emphasize education, dialogue, and empowerment as tools for creating resilient societies, proving that peacebuilding is not just about policy, it’s about people.
Beyond her public work, Hajer embodies the values she promotes: resilience, empathy, and collaboration. She leads with humility, always highlighting the contributions of others while showing that one voice, when committed and persistent, can spark movements and shift mindsets.
In a continent filled with stories of courage and transformation, Hajer Sharief stands tall as a living testament to the power of women shaping Africa’s future.
Her life reminds us that peace, justice, and equality are not abstract ideals, they are achievable goals when young leaders rise to the occasion.
She is not just an activist; she is a trailblazer, a visionary, and a force of nature inspiring generations of African women to rise, lead, and build a better tomorrow.
Image Credit: Kofi Annan Foundation
