PWG Geneva 7th Annual Leadership Conference

Speakers & Vendors

Sat 12 October 2024

9am-6pm

WORKSHOP: 8-11 oCTOBER 2024

2024 PWG Leadership Conference Speakers

Women’s Leadership and Representation - High Level Panel:

Jo Butler – Moderator
Jo Butler

Jo Butler is an accomplished international lawyer specializing in climate change and environmental law. With a distinguished career at various UN organizations, she served as the legal adviser for the first-ever Climate Change treaty signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. Jo has worked closely with notable figures, including Dr. Angela Merkel, and provided legal advice at the UN Economic Commission for Africa. A graduate of the Graduate Institute in Geneva and Columbia University, her journey is marked by perseverance through personal challenges. Now retired, Jo remains actively engaged in environmental advocacy.

Dr. Sofía Boza, Ambassador Permanent Representative of Chile to the WTO

Sofía Boza is the Chilean Ambassador to the WTO, WIPO, UNCTAD, and the International Trade Centre since July 2022. She co-coordinates the WTO’s Structured Discussions on Investment Facilitation for Development and served as Chair of the WTO Working Group on Trade and Technology Transfer from May 2023 to May 2024. With a strong academic background, she was an associate professor at the University of Chile, specializing in agricultural policy, rural development, and international trade. Sofía holds degrees in Economics and Commercial Engineering, a master’s in Economic Development, and a PhD in Economics from the Autonomous University of Madrid.

Mary Namono Kibere is a seasoned negotiator with over 12 years of experience in international affairs, specializing in legal, humanitarian, and human rights issues. Formerly the Head of International Legal and Social Affairs at Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Uganda Permanent Mission to the African Union in Addis Ababa, she now represents Uganda at the United Nations in Geneva. She is actively engaged with the UNHCR, the Human Rights Council, and related committees, advocating for Uganda’s interests with a fearless commitment to diplomacy and negotiation.
▪ H.E Ms. Hozce Anderson, DPR Tanzania Permanent Mission TBC
▪ H.

Women’s Wealth and Financial Inclusion Panel

Hulya Kurt, President, Organizations of Women in Trade (OWIT) (moderator)
Hulya Kurt, President, Organizations of Women in Trade (OWIT) (moderator)

Hulya Kurt is the President of Organisation of Women in International Trade (OWIT). Hulya brings over 32 years of leadership experience from a multinational corporation, where she led global programs and spearheaded Diversity & Inclusion initiatives. Now a coach, mentor, and workshop facilitator, she focuses on leadership, communication, negotiation, and personal branding. Hulya is passionate about helping young adults overcome anxieties and facilitates innovation hackathons on design thinking and business models. Fluent in English, Turkish, German, and French, she brings a global perspective. As President of OWIT International, she champions women’s economic empowerment, inspiring the next generation and advocating for a more inclusive world.
Sanaz Javadi

Sanaz Javadi is a lawyer, international adviser, mentor, TED Talk speaker, and trainer with 21 years of experience in international trade, intellectual property, and economic empowerment for women and youth across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Currently serving as VP of Partnerships at the Organization of Women in International Trade, she has consulted on United Nations projects and collaborated with NGOs, the
Swiss government, the European Union, and local governments in developing countries. Since 2018, Sanaz has mentored over 145 individuals and institutions in trade and business strategy and has received multiple leadership awards from European institutions.

Ines Saloua Tabka

Seasoned banker with more than thirty years of Private Banking experience covering the Middle Eastern markets (Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi).
Manages a large book of Ultra High Networth clients and family businesses providing comprehensive wealth management services including investment advises, wealth structuring solutions, investment finance, corporate finance, real estate and private equity.
Keen advocate and supporter of women’s career progression in particular in the financial sector

Paola Galizia

Paola is a professional with 10 years of experience in the corporate world. Previously a Finance Manager in commodity trading, she has also worked as a consultant at a Big Four firm and as a Senior Account Manager for Expedia Inc. With a strong background in international relations, is passionate about empowering women in entrepreneurship and finance.

Christelle Donhossou - Risk Manager (Private Banking) Co founder of Aeden

Christelle currently thrives in private banking at a major Swiss bank, leveraging her extensive expertise in financial auditing. Born in Benin, she grew up around the world due to her father’s diplomatic role, living in New York, Germany, Morocco, and Switzerland. She holds a Master’s in Finance from ISCAE in Morocco and a Master’s in Audit from the University of Paris-Dauphine. Her career began at EY in Paris before joining PwC in Geneva. Passionate about societal impact, Christelle co-founded AEDEN to support African communities. A dedicated mother of two, she enjoys reading, running, and dreams of a world where happiness is as accessible as Wi-Fi.

Women’s Education and Professional Development Panel

Liza Sekaggya (Moderator)
Svein Oesttveit, Director a.i. International Bureau of Education, UNESCO

KEYNOTE: Empowering Futures: The Critical Nexus of Girls’ Education, Curriculum Development, Leadership, Health and Wealth Creation-

Mr. Svein Oestveit is an experienced educator with over 30 years in UNESCO’s Education Sector, focusing on policy, youth skills training, teacher training, distance education, and literacy. Formerly Director of UNESCO’s Education Executive Office, he has chaired the UNESCO-IBE Council since 2021 and was appointed interim Director of the UNESCO International Bureau of Education in 2023. A passionate advocate for quality education as a driver of sustainable development and social progress, Mr. Oestveit holds a Master’s degree in English literature from the University of Oslo, with additional studies in History, Sociology, and Pedagogy.

Patricia Mumba

TEDx: Empowered Voices: The Lasting Legacy of Educating a Girl

Patricia, CEO of Engage Inspire Empower, is a transformative figure in education, renowned for her strategic vision and executive leadership. She has a proven track record of guiding students to excel academically and professionally, achieving successful placements in top schools, colleges, and universities. With her expertise in fellowship applications and educational advancement, Patricia exemplifies leadership excellence, shaping the future leaders of tomorrow with her innovative and results-driven approach

Albina Koch, President, International Coaching Federation (ICF)

TEDx: Future Proofing Female Leadership, building adaptability through Coaching.

Albina Koch is the Founder and CEO of KOCH Consulting & Coaching, a renowned firm specializing in Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, Transformational Consulting & Training.
With a distinguished career spanning over a decade, she has become a trusted coach (PCC ICF) and advisor to top managers across various industries in Switzerland and Europe. As an international mentor and corporate trainer, Albina excels in leadership

Women’s Health Panel

Ellen Kocher, Coach, SwissHealth (moderator)
Ellen Kocher, Coach, SwissHealth (moderator)

Ellen is a master coach with over 20 years of experience, specializing in resilience and holistic self-care. She helps individuals and groups implement sustainable lifestyle changes, delivering tangible results. With a Master’s in Health and Wellness Coaching and certifications including ICF MCC and NBCHWC, Ellen combines her background in economics and over a decade as a Senior Consultant in finance to address the demands of high-pressure environments. She promotes work-life balance, nutrition, physical activity, and self-care, supporting executives and fostering workplace well-being. Ellen lives in Geneva with her husband and three children.

Dr. Anne Najjuka is an accomplished epidemiologist with an MSc in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She has served as a Medical Officer for the Global Influenza Programme at the World Health Organization, contributing significantly to global health initiatives. Dr. Najjuka is passionate about advancing public health and empowering communities to improve health outcomes, making her an inspiring voice in health leadership discussions.

Dr. Gurpreet Kaur, Gender and Human Rights Specialist

Dr. Gurpreet Kaur is a global women’s rights expert. She received her B.A. (Hons) and M.A. degrees from the National University of Singapore and has a Ph.D. in Gender and Postcolonial Ecofeminism in Literature from the University of Warwick. She is an endometriosis survivor and was on a wheelchair for five years. Her interest in pursuing international law and policy towards justice was cemented during these years as she experienced first-hand through disability and gender bias that disempowerment can take various forms and shapes. So, she finished pursuing international human rights law at SOAS, focusing on conceptions of female violence and terrorism. In bringing all the different strands together, Gurpreet passionately advocates for gender equality. She now also raises awareness on endometriosis and disability, and the disproportionate impact it can have on women’s careers and life opportunities. More recently, she has been using her life experiences in exploring the interconnectedness of climate justice and sexual, reproductive and health rights. She was shortlisted for the UN Women UK award for outstanding contributions to gender equality, and was on the Climate Action Network UK’s steering committee for inclusion and human rights. In her free time, Gurpreet can be found watching Netflix, writing and travelling.

Breakout Workshops

Women Social and Legal Challenges

Avinder Laroya
Avinder Laroya

Avinder Laroya is a multi-lingual English Solicitor, Mediator, Chartered Arbitrator, and Entrepreneur with over 20 years’ experience in private practice in London and now splits her time between London and Lausanne. Specializing in international dispute settlement with an LLM in the field, she is a CEDR-accredited Commercial and Civil Mediator, Workplace Mediator, and trained in Online Dispute Resolution techniques. As the founder of Serenity Law LLP and Minute Mediation, Avinder has dedicated her career to promoting access to justice and supporting diverse clients—including NGOs, entrepreneurs, and corporations—in commercial and dispute resolution. She regularly conducts workshops to enhance conflict resolution strategies.

Fadzi Whande

Fadzi Whande is an award-winning DEI Culture Architect and Social Justice Advocate with a track record of transforming organizational cultures to prioritize inclusion, equity, and belonging. Known for her thought leadership, Fadzi frequently speaks on leveraging DEI for sustainable, systemic change on a global scale. Beyond her professional work, she serves as a board member and Ambassador for various organizations, championing inclusion and the power of collective action for meaningful social change. Fadzi holds an MSc in Behavioral Science from the London School of Economics (LSE) and an MBA from the University of Western Australia (UWA).
Women,

20224 PWG Leadership Conference – Vendors

1. MCPR Jobs
MCPR Jobs

About: A comprehensive career hub for job opportunities in Media, Communications,
and Public Relations. MCPR Jobs connects talent with roles that drive impactful
storytelling and influence in the PR and media industries. They will also host preconference masterclasses on storytelling and leadership.
Contact – https://www.linkedin.com/company/media-comms-pr-jobs/

About: This eco-friendly brand promotes sustainable and healthy living by offering
products that reduce plastic waste and harmful chemicals. From recycled candle
containers to second-hand home items, they prioritize natural, vegan, and eco-friendly
materials, encouraging a lifestyle that’s kind to both the body and the planet.
Contact –

ethopian airways

About: As the leading airline of Africa, Ethiopian Airlines offers direct connections
between Africa and destinations worldwide. In support of the conference, they are
offering airline discounts for African participants, enhancing accessibility and fostering
global connections.
Contact –

  •  Website – www.ethiopianairlines.com
  •  Instagram – @fly.ethiopian
  • Linkedin – Ethiopian Airlines
Gallery-Brulhart_Logo_optimized

About: Based in Geneva, Gallery Brulhart is dedicated to showcasing contemporary
African art, with a special focus on women artists of African heritage. Their exhibitions
spotlight a wide range of themes, from identity to social justice, and celebrate the rich
diversity of women’s creative voices.

Contact –

logo_windchimes

About: With over 40 years of experience, Roots-En-Ciel offers a unique blend of Breathing Coordination, the Alexander Technique, and Ideokinesis. Their sessions promote calm, alignment, and efficiency in breath, movement, and voice, designed to empower individuals in their personal and professional lives.

Contact:

  • Websites:
    • karen-sadek.com (English, in construction)
    • windchimes-consulting.ch (French)
  • Email
    • prat@karen-sadek.com to book lessons and sessions
    • commext@karen-sadek.com for all other communication
  • Contact Number
    • +41 76 395 65 25

About: Dedicated to supporting students who dream of studying in the U.S., Engage Inspire Empower provides resources, guidance, and opportunities for students to thrive both academically and culturally, enabling them to make the most of their educational journey abroad.
Contact –

  • Website – https://www.engageinspireempower.com/
  • Email – engageinspireempower@gmail.com
  • Contact Number
    • +1(857)2314275
    • +1(857)2661307

About: A nonprofit that designs handmade jewelry to fund educational projects for children in Ethiopia. Their sales support school supplies, classrooms, and nutrition programs for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS, making a significant difference in the lives of young students.

About: WBA is a platform that empowers African women through leadership, business, and professional development. They advocate for women in various fields, offering resources to help African women excel and drive change in their communities and industries.

a. Chambre de Commerce Suisse-République du Congo

About: Promotes Swiss-Congolese economic ties, supporting trade and development initiatives between the two regions, and fostering opportunities for collaboration and investment.

b. Chamber of Cultures, Commerce, and Industry of the Black World (CCCIBW)

About: Aims to build economic solidarity across the African diaspora. CCCIBW provides support to pan-African businesses and fosters integration with global trade and investment channels.

About: Africa’s premier athleisure brand, designed for high achievers and trailblazers. High Level Fashion combines style with functionality, catering to individuals who are driven to make a meaningful impact while looking their best.

Contact –

  • Website – https://highlevel.fashion/
  • Email – contact@highlevel.fashion
  • Contact Number –
    • +41 76 715 16 18
    • +41 78 965 72 12
  • Instagram – @highlevelfashion2
  • Linkedin / Facebook – High Level Fashion
  • Office – PVI Offices, 2 Cour de Rive, Geneva 1204 Switzerland

About: A vegan, cruelty-free cosmetics brand that offers 24-hour wear makeup products for all skin types. Their range includes foundations, setting sprays, powders, and more, providing high-quality options for natural, glamorous, or creative looks.

Contact –

  • Email – stellaoganwu02.son9@gmail.com
  • Contact Number – 079 637 89 56
  • Instagram – @stelwith_classcosmetics
  • TikTok – @Stelwith_classcosmetics
  • Email stellaoganwu02.son9@gmail.com

About: This brand merges Eastern craftsmanship with Western fashion, offering luxurious cashmere scarves and silk dresses. SHENANNZ supports educational projects in Pakistan, showcasing how fashion can contribute to social good.


Contact –

  • Website – http://www.shenannz.com
  • Instagram – @SHENANNZ