In an era where gender equality is not just a goal but a necessity, GEWE (Gender Equality and Women Empowerment) Network continues to spearhead initiatives that turn this aspiration into reality.

On 24 May 2024 at 22 Bishopsgate (XCHG) London, GEWE Network brought together 30 diverse women in the gender equality space—an event that may very well be remembered as a turning point in the fight for women's leadership equality. Helmed by Maudlyn Akosua Awuku, a visionary whose name is becoming synonymous with women's empowerment, the event set a powerful tone.

"We're not here to lament statistics," Awuku stated in her opening remarks. "We're here to rewrite them." Her words set the stage for an event that refused to dwell on problems without crafting solutions.

The roundtable's agenda addressed the most pressing issues facing women leaders today:

1. Political Parity: Despite making up half the population, women hold less than 25% of parliamentary seats worldwide.
2. Mentorship Mirage: Studies show that 63% of women have never had a formal mentor.
3. Period Poverty: A topic often whispered, never shouted, yet it keeps millions of women from education and leadership roles.
4. STEM's Gender Gap: In a world driven by technology, only 28% of STEM workers are women.

Through a series of breakout sessions, participants dissected each issue, examining its roots in systemic biases, cultural norms, and internalized barriers.

• Lyanne Nicholl, CEO of 50:50 Parliament, shared: "We often talk about getting women into politics. The truth is a sisterhood exists and support is paramount."
• In STEM, Dona Donna Otchere of SISTEM UK stated: "We're not just missing out on women in STEM; we're missing out on solutions that women uniquely bring."
• Gabriella Pearson, founder of Menstrual Health Project, emphasized: "Combating gender equality and addressing how illness affects the workplace needs to improve!"

The most poignant moment came during the period poverty talk. When Naomie Praise shared her journey from using tissues during her periods to addressing menstrual health, there wasn't a dry eye in the room. By session's end, a multinational coalition had formed, committed to making menstrual products as accessible as any school supply.

GEWE Network's approach is refreshingly holistic, recognizing that women's leadership is a web of interconnected challenges. By focusing on underrepresented women in high-stakes arenas, they're reshaping societies.

"A seat at the table isn't charity; it's strategy," Awuku often says. "Women bring diverse perspectives that drive innovation, foster peace, and boost economies."

As the event concluded, commitments were made, partnerships forged, and timelines set. GEWE Network's roundtable has laid the groundwork for systemic changes—from boardrooms to ballot boxes.

In an age where leadership is being redefined, GEWE Network isn't just participating; they're leading the charge. Their message is clear: the future of leadership is diverse, empowered, and unmistakably female.