Innkick

Wrapping up hashtag !

Have you ever had the feeling that you can't decide which panel to go with because they are all at once?

Happened on the last day. So I did panel hopping.

Starting with a great topic about "Empowering Inclusive Global Trade with AI".
It is always a privilege to listen to one of my favourite speakers and an expert in this field, Dr. Sandy Chong
One of the critical challenges discussed was the digital divide, which often prevents SMEs from acquiring the necessary technology or knowledge of Free Trade Agreements to truly expand their business.
Knowledge is power.
How would you like to overcome the gap? With constant learning and capacity building.
One of the Pillars of Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT).

Hopping to the next session, right next door, which IMMIB - Istanbul Minerals and Metals Exporters Association has organized, a Turkish-based organization facilitated by the esteemed Ayşegül Şahinoğlu Yerdeş, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Türkiye to WTO, was a proud moment for me.
The topic concerns transforming this industry to be more sustainable and greener.
There is still a long way to go; however, it all starts with raising awareness and putting it on the table. I enjoyed listening to two of our Turkish Speakers, Yavuz Arkun, and Bulent Hacioglu.

3 days were well spent with reviving connections, building new ones, learning, and listening.

I always feel energized after these types of forums. You might think it is tiring.
Well, it is an effort for sure; at the same time, energy brings energy.

And participating in forums in town is important, specifically global ones.

You gain different perspectives and follow trends and topics that come in handy.

Knowledge is power.

Are there any forums you always take advantage of?

Day 2 !

It was not only about listening to all the different panels and subjects on how to make trade inclusive.

Catching up, building on what we have been inspired upon, and how we can contribute to the Global Trade Scene was on our agenda as Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT). Adding to our full day agenda meetings with some of our chapters presidents and executive board members, Noreen Burroughes Cesareo FRSA, with whom we have started to craft our next fall retreat and topics to cover.

Below, valuable insight and common themes, which have been put on the table:

Capacity Building
Handholding MSME's even more so in rural areas
Indigenous Women safeguarding policies
Access to finance via tools and technology that can support what does exist in the country already
Simple is the best
At the same time, it was acknowledged that if we continue as is, we do not go far.

As the proverb goes: 'If you do the same, you will not get different results.' This wisdom underscores the need for change and innovation in our approach.

In between meetings with stakeholders and partners, such as International Trade Centre.

This was the perfect timing for our future of Owit Türkiye, a development we eagerly anticipate, participating in such powerful forums. It was a great beginning and start for the team.

Ending the day with leisure after work, organized by OWIT Lake Geneva, around trade talks. Thanks, dear Iulia Popescu, for facilitating the session.

Jam-packed, and this is the exact reason you attend these forums.

New connections, new perspectives, sparking creativity and unlocking the unknown.

What is your standpoint in attending big forums?

What an inspiring day it was at the Kayalar chemical plant in Tuzla, meeting one of our Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) members, Gamze Soylemez.

Not only did I tour the plant, but I also met extraordinary professionals in different departments and learned about the history of this successful and one of the main global chemical raw material providers.

Observing ground-breaking innovation in what is usually a male-dominated arena was incredibly welcoming.

My role as president of the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) fuels my dedication to advocating for women's accomplishments worldwide.

I was surprised to see great art around the entry to the office spaces. The Phoenix is a masterpiece that signifies the factory's rebirth after a major incident, of this family owned business.

Thanks to Gamze Soylemez for inviting me. Proving herself in this male-dominated industry as an export sales manager is difficult, and she leads it with grace and power. Kudos to you.

During our conversations, we discovered more collaboration possibilities, brainstormed, and discussed potential business opportunities.

When women come together, there is always trade going on.
Trade in ideas, in creation, in growth, in wealth.

As her former coach, I can see how she flourished, changed her career path, and broke free from her hamster wheel, which is rewarding to see.

A fruitful day spent.

Always make time for a personal visit if you can. It is worth it.
Networking or meeting humans is vital to our well-being and our personal development.