Pillar 1

Future focus: the workplace of tomorrow

Workshop 1A
Presented by BPW Estonia
Workshop Speaker: Ester Eomois

Unlock Your Leadership Potential: A Career Development Seminar for Women

Join us for an empowering seminar led by Ester Eomois (BPW Estonia) to explore career development strategies for women in leadership. This interactive session blends research-based insights with real-world experiences to help you navigate your career path with confidence. Gain practical strategies for career planning, mentorship, work-life balance, and personal development. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or seeking career growth, this seminar will provide the tools to achieve success. Conducted in English, this session will inspire you to take action and unlock your full potential!

Workshop 1B
Presented by: BPW Finland
Workshop Speakers: Dr. Anne Gustafsson-Personen and Jenni Valta

Topic: Entrepreneurship (Education) as a Key Driver of Working Life Change

The importance of entrepreneurship (education) has been highlighted by several researchers. Our society, both locally and in Europe, is seeking solutions to develop citizens’ entrepreneurial mindset, attitude, skills, and behaviour due to the increasing prevalence of part-time jobs and self-employment. One potential solution is to enhance entrepreneurship (education) within our education system
The workshop consists of two parts:

In the first part, we focus on the theoretical foundations of entrepreneurship (education). Specifically, we will explore the three pillars of entrepreneurship pedagogy: behaviours, attributes, and skills. The second part focuses on how we can practically support the careers of women of different ages based on the theoretical foundations of entrepreneurship (education). We will explore questions such as: Is it possible to find points of convergence for the application of entrepreneurship pedagogy in everyday life? Part two is practical and utilizes the learning cafe method. The goal is to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and find answers.

Keywords: entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurial pedagogy, women of different ages, working life change

Workshop 1C
Presented by: BPW Iceland
Workshop Speakers: Jóhanna Kristín Tómasdóttir, Sigurveig Friðgeirsdóttir, Sigríður Björg Einarsdóttir

Topic: TOGETHER WE CAN: Icelandic Women and their battle for equal rights.

Icelandic women have long been leaders in the fight for gender equality. It seems obvious that Icelandic women are doing something right but the battle is in no way over and Icelandic women, just as women everywhere else, need to be constantly on their guard when it comes to their rights. In our workshop we want to introduce herstory in Iceland in a nutshell and emphasize huge moments in history and the effect those moments had on the future of equal rights in Iceland and contemplate which of those, if any, can be used by women elsewhere to enhance their equal rights.

Workshop 1D
Presented by: Vilnius Club, Lithuania
Workshop Speakers: Jurgita Gelgotienė

Topic: Traditions and Innovations in Women’s Business

This workshop explores the vital balance between tradition and innovation in women’s entrepreneurship. Traditions shape our identities and provide valuable lessons in resilience, community, and perseverance. At the same time, innovation opens new opportunities, from digital platforms to leadership in emerging industries. Women today are transforming business models, embracing technology, and adopting sustainable practices while staying rooted in cultural heritage. How can we honor traditions while embracing modern advancements? By blending both, women create impactful businesses that drive meaningful change. The session will also address systemic barriers and the need for supportive policies and networks. Participants will leave with insights on mentorship, equal opportunities, and strategies for success in an evolving business landscape.

Workshop 1E
Presented by: BPW International, BPW Switzerland
Workshop Speakers: Myriam Heidelberger Kaufmann

Topic: Why we need standards to validate our Management

Lobby organisations and NGOs are under pressure. To receive financial support and recognition of the public, the need to follow highest ethics and governance principles. Especially in an organisation like ours, where chairs change frequently it is difficult to establish a profile and maintain it over many years.

Join the panel discussion led by the Chair Standing Committee Legislation of BPW International 2024 – 2027 and skilled BPW committee members from various backgrounds to learn about governance principles and how they influence the management of our clubs and federations.

In a second part you are asked to share and discuss together with the panelists the importance of validation of their own leadership to grow as a female leader. We also will discuss which standards might be useful for your Club, Federation and how you can add to strengthen your organisation.

Pillar 2

Digitalisation: the tools you need tomorrow, today.

Workshop 2A
Presented by: BPW UK & BPW USA
Workshop Speaker: Larisa Miller

Title: AI and Globalization: Empowering Leaders to Shape the Future of Work

In an era of rapid technological advancements, the intersection of artificial intelligence, digitalization, and globalization offers unparalleled opportunities for female leaders to drive their own success. This workshop explores how AI and emerging digital tools can revolutionize leadership approaches, redefine workplace dynamics, and enhance global collaboration. Participants will gain insights into leveraging AI for strategic decision-making, fostering inclusivity in the global digital landscape, and breaking barriers to leadership in male-dominated industries.

Through interactive discussions and case studies, we will examine:

• How AI can enhance productivity and creativity in leadership roles.
• Digital tools that empower female leaders today for tomorrow’s workplace.
• The critical role of globalization in expanding opportunities for women.

Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to integrate AI into their leadership toolkit, the confidence to embrace digital transformation, and a renewed perspective on their potential to influence the global business environment.

Workshop 2B
Presented by: BPW Sweden
Workshop Speaker: Andrea Hemming

Title: AI Unleashed: Transforming your Work, Life and Success

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries and reshaping how we live and work. Despite its growing importance, women remain underrepresented in AI roles, decision-making processes, and the data that trains these systems. Women also tend to adopt AI more cautiously, emphasizing the need for greater inclusivity and empowerment. This interactive workshop is designed to bridge that gap.

Participants will explore how AI can be a powerful tool for personal and professional success, gaining practical skills to boost productivity, creativity, and decision-making in today’s fast-paced digital world.
AI is more than just a technological advancement – it is a catalyst for innovation, growth, and empowerment. This workshop will equip participants with the confidence and knowledge to embrace AI, unlocking their full potential and enabling them to thrive in a digitally transformed world.

Workshop 2C
Presented by: BPW Sofia, Bulgaria
Workshop Speaker: Lucrecia Maria Vanni

Title: Gamification and Its Impact on New Startups

This interactive 50-minute workshop explores how gamification can be a powerful tool for startup success. Participants will learn how to incorporate game design elements—such as points, badges, and rewards—into their business strategies to enhance user engagement, build customer loyalty, and stand out in competitive markets.

The session will cover the fundamentals of gamification, its psychological principles, and real-world examples from successful startups like Duolingo and Fitbit. Through interactive discussions and practical examples, attendees will gain insights into how to create engaging experiences for their audiences, measure results, and navigate common challenges such as oversaturation and ethical considerations.
By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with actionable strategies and fresh inspiration to apply gamification techniques to their own businesses, fostering meaningful engagement and sustainable growth.

Takeaway: Gamification is not just about adding fun—it’s about designing impactful experiences that motivate action and drive results.

Workshop 2D
Presented by: BPW International, BPW Nepal, UK, USA and Malaysia
Workshop Speaker: Neelima Bassnet, Vice President UN

Title: Role of BPW at United Nations in the Past, Present and Future

BPW has a long history of advocacy with the UN, dating back to 1947. This workshop will reflect on the status of women at that time, our progress, and the challenges ahead. It will highlight BPW’s UN history, including insights from A Bus to 42nd Street, based on longtime UN Representative Esther Hymer’s experiences. The session will also explore BPW’s evolving role, from UNIFEM’s transition to UN Women to expanding collaborations with UN agencies. Women’s NGOs now unite in annual UN reports, strengthening their collective impact. Participants will engage in envisioning the future of this partnership, guided by 1st Vice President (UN) Neelima Basnet. Key discussions will focus on maximizing BPW’s influence within the UN and advancing gender equality. The session will be interactive, encouraging new ideas for strengthening this vital partnership.

Workshop 2E
Presented by: BPW Germany, BPW Stuttgart
Workshop Speakers: Alexandra Bichteler, Heike Fiestas Cueto

Title: Women’s Strength in Digitalization – Visibility, Encouragement, Acceptance and Comfort

Women can impact the digital world of tomorrow with their skills in a variety of ways. However often they are overlooked, do not feel comfortable in their position or lack the courage to take the next step. How can we as BPW Clubs, encourage and strengthen other women in these fields?

In this interactive workshop you will generate ideas and explore possible formats to apply in your BPW Club, in the dialogue with business and political representatives, or simply for encouraging others.

Introduction to BPW Project: Discover the initiative “Strong Women in Digitalization – focus Danube Region” and gain valuable insights from these interviews on how women act to become more visible, how they can find acceptance and comfort in the IT sector and how girls get encouraged to pursue careers in IT.

Pillar 3

Globalisation: global empowerment of female leaders

Workshop 3A
Presented by: BPW Ireland
Workshop Speakers: Dolores Andrew, Award Winning Wellness Trainer and Holistic Life Coach

Topic: Own the Journey: Empowering Women to Break Barriers and Succeed

This workshop equips participants with strategies to build confidence and resilience, turning challenges into growth opportunities. Attendees will learn to reframe negative self-talk, recognize strengths, and practice self-compassion. The session explores resilience-building techniques like adopting a growth mindset, embracing failure, and creating a strong support network.

Through structured exercises, participants will clarify goals, identify barriers, and set actionable steps aligned with their values. Workbooks and practical tools will help maintain motivation, balance, and progress. By the end, attendees will leave with a personalized action plan to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals with confidence.

Workshop 3B
Presented by: BPW Estonia & BPW UK
Workshop Speakers: Siiri Tiivits-Putton, Ester Eomois, Jo Kinsey

Title: Building a Sustainable Future: Green Ambassadors in BPW – How to Make Change Happen: Mindset and Behaviours

The Green Ambassadors workshop aims to inspire and equip BPW members to drive sustainability in their communities and professional networks. As environmental challenges grow, business and professional women have a unique opportunity to lead sustainable change. This interactive session will explore how to shift mindsets and behaviors to make sustainability an everyday practice. Participants will gain valuable tools, fresh perspectives, and a supportive network, whether they are new to sustainability or already implementing green initiatives. The workshop will focus on responsible leadership and integrating sustainability into business success. It also seeks to expand the Green BPW movement and empower women as sustainability leaders. By working together, we can create a future where business growth aligns with environmental responsibility. The time for action is now!

Workshop 3C
Presented by: BPW Istanbul, Turkey
Workshop Speakers: Selda Alemdar Dinçer, Prof. Dr. Göknur Akçadağ, Ceylan Güzekin, Gamze Ağca Dönmez, Özge Atila, Selin Gücüm

Title: Panel Discussion: Global Empowerment of Female Leaders

Join Business Professional Women for a powerful panel discussion featuring leaders from pharmacy, retail, business services, legal services, and academia. Explore the challenges, breakthroughs, and opportunities shaping women’s leadership across these industries.

Key Topics:

• Barriers to Leadership: Persistent challenges, including gender biases, unequal opportunities, and industry-specific hurdles like underrepresentation in STEM, senior management, and research.
• Promising Developments: Groundbreaking initiatives, success stories, and women driving innovation, healthcare transformation, and breaking academic barriers.
• Current Landscape: Key facts on female leadership trends, pay equity, and representation at executive levels globally.
• Real-Life Experiences: Personal stories of resilience, mentorship, and leadership.
  This session highlights how diverse perspectives drive global progress and inspires the next generation of women leaders. Don’t miss this chance to learn, share, and collaborate for a more inclusive future.

Workshop 3D
Presented by: BPW English Speakers Clubs Nicosia
Workshop Speaker: Elena Andreou

Title: Personal Branding: Shaping Professional Identity and Social Impact in the Digital Era

Personal branding goes beyond individual success and can drive social impact by inspiring change and supporting causes. Understanding how algorithms rank information is crucial, as these AI-powered systems determine visibility and engagement across platforms. Aligning personal branding efforts with algorithm mechanics is key to improving credibility and relevance. Building authority is essential for standing out in the competitive digital landscape. A “personal branding score” measures online presence, reflecting trustworthiness, expertise, and engagement. This presentation will offer insights into how algorithms assess digital identity and how to strategically build authority for professional growth.

Workshop 3E
Presented by: BPW International
Workshop Speakesr: Francesca Burack – BPW International Vice President of Membership, Izadora Letchacoski – Young BPW International Representative

Title: The Secrets to Engagement and Collaboration – (Creating Impact for Women and Sustainability for BPW International)

Do you have a brilliant idea but aren’t sure how to ignite enthusiasm and support for it?
Are you a leader or member striving to inspire deeper engagement and active participation within your BPW community?

This workshop is for you, whether you are a Young BPW professional or a seasoned professional!
Too often, great ideas falter due to a lack of excitement or buy-in from others. Whethe you’re leading a group, managing a project, or contributing as a member, the challenge of motivating others can feel daunting. This interactive session will change that.

Join us to discover practical strategies and “secret hacks” for fostering engagement and collaboration within your organization. Whether you are a user of cutting-edge AI tools and online platforms or a notebook genius, we’ll guide you step-by-step to craft a personalized, one-page action plan designed to rally support, energize your community, and drive impactful results.

This workshop isn’t just about learning—it’s about doing. You’ll walk away with a tangible plan tailored to your needs and goals, ready to implement as soon as you return to your country, and help you shine using your gifts and talents to move BPW International forward.

Join us and turn your vision into reality!

Pillar 4

Celebrate our Superpowers: unleash what lies within

Workshop 4A
Presented by: BPW Vilnius Club
Workshop Speaker: Jolanta Lunevičienė

Title: Have you ever tried to find business ideas in art?

Innovation is often associated with information technology, but true innovation is about creating something entirely new. To develop a product or service that people are willing to pay for, it must surprise them and offer something they’ll enjoy discovering. Just like famous artists who are viewed as visionaries for capturing themes that resonate with people, innovation works the same way—creating timeless value. To understand this, we must look at ideas with an open mind.

Women, known for their emotional sensitivity and perceptiveness, often find inspiration in art. This is why art can be an endless source of ideas, helping us discover hidden talents. For example, mothers telling fairy tales to their children often weave in their own fantasies, a fleeting creativity that can be nurtured into lasting ideas. Traditional art also serves as a rich source of inspiration for businesses worldwide, helping them create modern products with both aesthetic value and meaning.

Workshop 4B
Presented by: BPW Europe
Workshop Speakers: Anu Viks – BPW European Coordinator, ConnieR Montague – Chair Learning for Leadership

Title: Mastering Business Storytelling: Crafting a Personal Leadership Narrative

This interactive workshop is designed for women in leadership who want to overcome public speaking challenges and communicate their vision with confidence. It focuses on using storytelling to turn personal experiences, challenges, and growth into compelling narratives that inspire and influence others. Participants will learn how to craft authentic personal narratives that highlight their leadership journey and unique strengths. The session also covers using storytelling to engage teams, negotiate effectively, and drive organizational change. Proven techniques will be shared to help build confidence in public speaking using storytelling frameworks. By the end, attendees will have their own leadership story ready to use in meetings, presentations, and other key moments in their careers. The workshop aims to equip women with the skills to make their message memorable and impactful. Join to break barriers, amplify your voice, and master business storytelling.

Workshop 4C
Presented by: BPW Galway, Ireland
Workshop Speaker: Karen Roberts

Title: Re-imagining Business Growth Through Re-Inventing Fitness in Global Health.

Healthcare is one of the most profitable industries, yet its current model depends on people staying ill or injured. To benefit both providers and users, the focus must shift to preventive and wellness programs. A prevention-based model can expand the user base by targeting the entire population, not just the sick or injured. Supporting entrepreneurs with innovative programs is key to creating lasting health improvements. My R.A.F.T.™ test and The Fix™ program aim to revolutionize fitness and wellness. These programs are designed to serve and protect our bodies throughout life. It’s time to embrace tools that address today’s demands while ensuring long-term health. Prevention is the future of healthcare.

Workshop 4D
Presented by: BPW Bremerhaven, BPW Germany and BPW ESC, BPW Cyprus)
Workshop Speakers: Christiana Genie, Maren Watzkat

Title: Superpower Reset: The Courage to Disappoint

Overview:
Break free from the fear of rejection and self-doubt by embracing your values and living authentically. This workshop explores how staying true to yourself builds confidence, resilience, and success on your own terms.

What You’ll Learn:

• How self-doubt and fear of disappointment hold you back
• The power of personal values in making confident choices
• Strategies to reframe rejection as growth
• Why self-care is key to resilience

Who Should Attend?
Anyone ready to prioritize their values, set boundaries, and live with purpose.

Join us and take the first step toward self-acceptance and empowered decision-making!

Workshop 4E
Presented by: BPW Itay
Workshop Speaker: Pinella Bombaci – Chair EWG Charter of the Girl’s Rights, Eufemia Ippolito – Chair EWG Women on Boards

Title: Women’s Rights: from girls to professional women for Corporate Governance.

The Garden of Respect, care and Kindness.
The purpose of this project is to make primary school children discover, through the gift of a plant to be treated, the beauty of three values: Respect, Care and Kindness, especially towards girls, future women.

The teachers explain the values contained in the New Charter of the Girl’s Rights.
BPW Italy has involved many schools in this project, throughout the national territory, with great resonance.

The project, which had the recognition of the European Parliament, has recently had the appreciation of Pope Francis.

Now the girl has grown up and she is ready to play important roles in society.
Our NGO can therefore help her by teaching to become a female professional for corporate governance.

Objectives:

• Know the value of LEDERSHIP for governance, legality and compliance.
• Explain the importance of TRAINING to acquire knowledge, skills and competences necessary for Women on Boards.
• Guiding young people towards COMMITMENT AND FUTURE CHALLENGES.

This, to have the skills to disseminate initiatives on “WOB”, knowing the importance for Young Women, of being on Boards of Directors.

Roadmap to follow:

• Promote initiatives at European level, with the support of BPW Young People
• Support the European campaign EWOB also through social networks
• Involve young people
• Monitor the results of the “EWOB.
• Present the results and compare them with other countries.