2021 Children's Budget Summit
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These remarks highlight the importance of investing in children and families globally in light of the impacts of COVID-19. Delivered by Michele Sumilas, former USAID Assistant to the Administrator, the speech aimed to highlight how USAID and interagency partners are working together to strengthen the capacity of foreign governments to support families.
my role
Met with event organizers to understand the audience and purpose. Gathered relevant data and drafted these remarks in consultation with subject matter experts. Managed the internal review process and coordinated logistics for the video recording.
excerpt
“It is evident that COVID-19 is exacerbating the risks that vulnerable children and their families face globally. Not only is the pandemic disrupting public health and food systems, it is also perpetuating the cycle of poverty and bringing instability to our world, leaving millions of children, adolescents, and their families around the globe without proper access to food, education, and child care. In addition, an estimated 5 million children globally have lost a parent or caregiver due to COVID, and these children are at higher risk of experiencing mental health problems, physical, emotional, and sexual violence, and family poverty.”
“Investing in and developing programs tailored to children, parents, and their families is one of the best investments a country can make. In our work, we have seen how services that are sustainably financed, managed, and delivered lead to stable, resilient, and prosperous families and communities. USAID is proud to be the lead agency for the whole-of-government Advancing Protection and Care for Children in Adversity Strategy, which commits the U.S. government to investing in the development, care, dignity, and safety of the world’s most vulnerable children and their families.”
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2023 MCC@20 Internal Kick-Off Event
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This internal agency video was presented at the kickoff event celebrating MCC's 20th anniversary. Delivered by Alice Albright, former CEO of MCC, it was intended to be lighthearted and informal. Its purpose was to express gratitude to MCC staff, inspire unity and collaboration, and foster excitement for the agency's ongoing growth and innovation.
my role
Drafted remarks, managed the internal review process and coordinated logistics for the video recording.
excerpt
“ MCC at 20 is also about all of you. It's a celebration of our people - who are at the heart of our agency. It's a recognition of the passion, dedication, and hard work that each of you brings to the agency every day - day in and day out - that makes our agency successful."
"As we embark on this year of celebration, I find myself reflecting on the past nineteen months. It has been a great honor to serve as your CEO, seeing all that MCC does on a daily basis – the nitty-gritty of how the agency works - and learning from all of you as you brilliantly carry out MCC's mission."
"Your tireless efforts have propelled us forward and have enabled us to adapt to an ever-changing landscape. As we commence this anniversary celebration, let me express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment to our agency's mission."
