WILLOW APPLEBY, MA, LLB

Since joining the CHEER International Group (CHEERing), Willow Appleby, MA, LLB, has been a powerful advocate for human rights, dignity, and justice for women and girls affected by displacement. Originally from the United Kingdom, Willow holds both a law degree and a master’s degree in Human Rights, grounding her work in legal expertise and advocacy.

Willow spent two years working with CHEERing in Greece, an experience she describes as life-changing. Based in Athens, she worked closely with displaced communities, learning about resilience, generosity, and the strength of community. The relationships she built and lessons she learned continue to shape her work today. Willow now serves as a remote consultant, continuing to support CHEERing’s mission from afar.

Recently, Willow was awarded the University of Padua’s Terzo Settore Prize for her master’s thesis on the situation for women and girls living in Greek refugee camps. Her research stemmed from her work with CHEERing and was informed by women’s voices shared through CHEERing’s focus groups and conversations. Willow’s thesis brings these perspectives into academic, policy, and advocacy contexts.

Her thesis opens with one woman’s words: “I want you to be my voice. Tell them that it is better here for animals than for us.”

Willow reflects on this, writing: “To the woman who asked us to be her voice: I am trying, and I will continue to do so.”

This commitment — to listening, amplifying, and honoring lived experience — defines Willow’s approach to her work and her ongoing impact.

CHEER is proud to celebrate Willow Appleby as our CHAMPion of the Week for her unwavering dedication to human rights and her advocacy for displaced women and girls.