Dubai recently hosted the third annual International Woman Leadership Conference (TIWLC) in partnership with Dubai Tourism, a pivotal event that brought together powerful women leaders from Africa and the diaspora. Over three transformative days, the conference became a catalyst for paradigm shifts and knowledge-sharing, empowering attendees with insights and experiences aimed at breaking down barriers hindering women’s connectivity and progress.
The conference, known for its engaging platform and focus on women’s empowerment, featured distinguished speakers including Claire Akamanzi, Josephine Wapakabulo, and Lena Zamchiya, each bringing their unique journeys and perspectives to the forefront.
Claire Akamanzi, renowned for her legal and business acumen, notably as the former CEO of the Rwanda Development Board and now CEO of NBA Africa, delivered an inspiring keynote address highlighting Rwanda's stories of courage and leadership. She emphasized the importance of forgiveness, dreaming big, and integrity as essential traits for successful leadership.
Dr. Josephine Wapakabulo, Founder & Managing Director of TIG Africa, captivated attendees with her wealth of experience—from leading at Rolls Royce Europe to becoming the inaugural CEO of Uganda’s National Oil Company (UNOC), making history as the first woman to hold such a role globally. Her insights underscored the significance of real-world experiences in shaping effective leadership strategies.
Lena Zamchiya, Chief Operating Officer for Friendship Bench Zimbabwe, shared profound insights on institutional leadership and leveraging multigenerational learnings during her conversation with Ibukun Awosika, the conference convener and founder of the Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy.
The collective contributions of Akamanzi, Wapakabulo, and Zamchiya exemplify the conference’s commitment to diverse perspectives and global impact, fostering an environment where women leaders can thrive and influence change on a significant scale.
The success of TIWLC 2024 reaffirms its role as a premier platform for nurturing courageous and innovative leadership among women. Looking ahead, the conference has announced its 2025 dates—March 19th to 21st—a testament to its ongoing commitment to empowering women leaders globally.