It was an exciting moment for the Executive Director, Debriche Health Development Centre (DHDC), and Director of Programmes at the Global TB Caucus, Deborah Ikeh, as she received the Exceptional Leadership Award during the United Nations Diplomatic Simulation hosted by Best Diplomats in Geneva, Switzerland.
The award recognized her outstanding performance, diplomacy, and commitment to global leadership during the high-level simulation, which brought together emerging global leaders to debate real-world issues and propose strategic solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Representing the Republic of Indonesia in the simulation, Ms. Ikeh delivered a powerful diplomatic stance on climate resilience in developing countries, emphasizing the urgent need for global solidarity, sustainable action, and political will to address vulnerabilities faced by developing countries.
Her intervention was widely lauded for its clarity, passion, and visionary leadership.
In addition to the practical training on diplomacy, leadership, and negotiations, one of the simulation’s most notable highlights was that Deborah proposed and successfully spearheaded the formation of a cross-regional bloc – with delegates from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Pacific.
Together, they drafted a resolution, gathered sufficient votes from simulation representatives of governments and the private sector, and it was passed at the General Assembly.
The achievement showcased her ability to build consensus, unite diverse perspectives, and translate ideas into collective diplomatic action.
Speaking after receiving the award, Ms. Ikeh remarked that the recognition was not just about her. Rather, “It was about every woman who dares to lead, every young person who dreams of impact, and every community that deserves a voice at the table.”
Adding: “We must continue to champion equity, dignity, and action where it matters most.”
Through her leadership role at DHDC and the Global TB Caucus, Ikeh continued to be a leading voice on health equity, community engagement, and international advocacy, particularly in the fight against TB and related public health threats.
Her participation in the simulation exemplifies the growing influence of African women leaders in shaping the global development agenda.
The Best Diplomats Simulation serves as a global platform for youth and young professionals to hone diplomatic skills, gain exposure to international affairs, and engage in realistic simulations of global governance.
Ikeh’s recognition was not only a personal milestone but a powerful reflection of the strategic leadership emerging from the Global South.
Deborah Iberi Ikeh is a global health advocate and development strategist with a decade of combined expertise in leadership development, parliamentary advocacy, community-led monitoring, and health diplomacy.
She is passionately committed to shaping policy, driving equity, and amplifying voices from underrepresented communities, especially across the Global South, in international health and development dialogues.
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