Outstanding Argentine Women Recognized for Community Service
- Mar 21
- 3 min read
Buenos Aires, Argentina – To mark International Women’s Day, UPF-Argentina co-hosted two programs in March, with special recognition of exceptional women for service to their communities.
On March 19, 2026, UPF-Argentina and Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) Argentina held an event at El Templete, a hall owned by the Buenos Aires City government, located in Parque Patricios.
In his welcoming speech, Mr. Miguel Werner, president of UPF-Argentina, recalled the sometimes tragic history of women’s struggle for equal rights with men. He recalled the 1972 declaration by the UN General Assembly of “International Women’s Year,” which later led to International Women’s Day. Lastly, he explained UPF’s mission “to provide a new level of leadership” in times of deepening conflicts and wars, where men and women are challenged to face many injustices together, and to help others who are lacking at a material, emotional or spiritual level.
Ms. Gloria Miranda Dantas, director of WFWP in the Southern Region of Latin America and the Caribbean, read excerpts of a speech by UPF and WFWP co-founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han: “For humanity to get through the 21st century with hope, women’s contributions are absolutely necessary … I encourage women leaders to cooperate, which will help as a turning point in the realization of world peace, marking the progress of history towards a world of peace, transcending the walls of nationality, race and religious belief.”
Several women were then recognized as Ambassadors for Peace, including Ms. Andrea Balagna, for her work at the Rosas del Plata’ Association, inspiring women who overcame breast cancer; Ms. María Teresa Neira, for her service career over two decades at Rotary International and with humanitarian projects to end hunger; Ms. Graciela Pampin, for her work with families, children and the elderly; Ms. Raquel Pérez Robles, for her teaching and artistic work, elevating the status of women; and Ms. Amalia Vargas, for her work in protecting American pre-Hispanic etching techniques, painting, sculpting and art, as a researcher and teacher at the National University of Arts. A special Global Peace Ambassador award went to Ms. Antonela Silvero Zaracho, for her charity and cultural work.
The program was enhanced by performances from Ms. Makenna Zambonini, singer and creator of Music Nights for Peace, with guitarist and singer Mr. Tobías Melgarejo, and singer Ms. Cecilia Verón.
On March 21, UPF-Argentina, together with Music Nights for Peace and the Nuestra Familia Foundation, held a cultural event at the foundation’s facility in Buenos Aires. In addition to their attendance, participants donated non-perishable food and second-hand clothes to be distributed by the foundation.
Seven women were recognized at this event: Ms. Roxana Inés Cacopardo, for taking performances to nursing homes, libraries and public parks in underserved communities; Ms. Liliana Castro, for her teaching vocation and community service; Ms. María Lidia Claro, for her commitment to culture, tradition and dance; Ms. Cristina Conde, for her contributions to music and culture; Ms. Angie García, for her community service through communications and the arts; Ms. Alejandra Luna, for service to those in need; and Ms. Sandra Graciela Ruiz, for her commitment to teaching, post-retirement, those in need.
Peace Ambassador Ms. Norma Pompilio, formerly of the Nuestra Familia Foundation, served as emcee, and Mr. Miguel Werner, president of UPF-Argentina, welcomed the guests. Peace Ambassador Ms. Makenna Zambonini served as hostess, sang and enlivened the event.
Other performers included renowned tango performer Ms. Cristina Conde; singer and songwriter Mr. Martín Compagno; dances by the Salta residents’ group Sembrando Tradiciones; guitarist Mr. Jorge Clausen, and a funny narration by Ms. Sandra Ruiz and Ms. Roxana Cacopardo.
In the current context of wars and conflicts, these events reinforced the UN Security Council’s declaration in 2000 about “the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and in peacebuilding,” stressing “their equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security.”
