In honor of Ethel Kennedy’s legacy of courage, compassion, and lifelong advocacy, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, in partnership with Manhattanville University, was proud to host the first Young Women’s Leadership Summit on April 23, 2025. Held at the iconic Reid Castle, the event brought together 65 young women and 16 advisors for a day of inspiration, education, and action.

The summit served as a vibrant launchpad for youth leadership in human rights, uniting diverse voices to reflect on the issues that matter most—and how to take action on those issues in their communities.

The day began with a welcome from Manhattanville University President Frank Sanchez, followed by an emotionally stirring keynote from Kerry Kennedy, president of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights. Drawing from her own life and her mother’s enduring impact, Kennedy encouraged attendees to “hit the campaign and learn,” reminding them that “small things can make a big difference—we have power. Maintain courage and humor!”

“She was so incredibly inspiring and motivating,” one participant shared. “Her address was the perfect opening to doing this work.”

The morning continued with interactive workshops that invited attendees to explore their personal “why” and align it with human rights and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In “Become a Defender: How Will You Create Change?”, participants collaborated to develop action plans and identify how their values could translate into real-world impact.

One advisor reflected:

“This morning, a few of the students with whom I traveled here today mentioned that they did not know what issues they wanted to further explore. After just a few minutes of diving into the work here, I saw the light bulbs [come on]. That is what this work is all about—inspiring activism in young people and connecting them with resources to make that happen.”

Lunch served as both a break and a space for connection, and the summit closed with a powerful wrap-up session where students shared their visions for change.

But perhaps the true impact of the day was best captured by the young women themselves:

“Everyone was very welcoming. I learned a lot, and it felt great talking to new girls about [these] issues. Speaking in front of everyone about an issue was amazing. Overall amazing trip—10/10—and I hope you guys keep doing this because trust, it’s a great experience for us girls.”

“Being able to collaborate with peers from different backgrounds, areas, and experiences to share ideas about topics we are passionate about.”

“The empowering feeling I got from merging with women I didn’t really know, from taking each other’s tips and uniting in our passions. As well as feeling incredibly heard and valued from everyone who put this event together.”

“I value everything. I’ve [never experienced something like this] before. I had the pleasure to express myself and people respected each other. As English is my second language, I felt very confident speaking in it.”

“I love that this was kind of a networking event. I was able to really be myself and talk to everyone openly. I learned so many new perspectives—it was amazing!”

By the end of the summit, participants left not only with new knowledge and skills, but also with a powerful sense of community. Together, they carried forward Ethel Kennedy’s legacy: one grounded in action, empathy, and the belief that young women everywhere can—and will—change the world.