International Women’s Day Celebration 2024: Inspiring Inclusion and Empowerment

by Muhammad Amir Siddique, Jakob Staubmann, Hedi Bousnina

The United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV) and the European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD-Austria) in collaboration with the International Women’s Day (IWD) organized the International Women’s Day Celebration 2024 at the United Nations Vienna Austria VIC Rotunda. This momentous occasion brought together a diverse range of participants from the international community and diplomats from around the world.

The event was moderated by Ms. Dingdong Dela Cruz and Marizel Rojas, who warmly welcomed everyone and extended their congratulations on the UNCAV-ENFiD-Austria International Women’s Day Celebration 2024. The festivities commenced with a captivating opening dance number performed by the VIC Group of Polynesian Friends.

The United Nations recognizes the crucial role of women’s equal participation in leadership, including political and public life, in achieving its 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. However, women continue to be underrepresented in decision-making positions across all sectors, including the professional world. This gender gap is particularly pronounced in industries like transportation, where women make up only 22 percent or less of the workforce.

The International Women’s Day Celebration featured a lineup of esteemed speakers who shared their insights and experiences on the theme of “Inspire Inclusion.” The event commenced with opening remarks by Mr. Hermann Kroiher, Secretary General of UNCAV, followed by inspirational messages from Mr. Peter Haider, President of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Austria, and Consul General Ivan Frank M. Olea from the Embassy of the Philippines in Vienna.

The program also included a choral rendition and keynote speeches by prominent figures in various fields. Dr. Maria Riehl, MD, from the Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), Ms. Kavita Gupta from the United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG), and Ms. La Neice Collins from the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) delivered thought-provoking speeches that emphasized the importance of inclusivity and empowerment.

One of the highlights of the event was a special presentation titled “Becoming Miss Right” by Ms. Ildeme Mahinay Koch, an influencer and author renowned for her work on personal development and empowerment. Ms. Koch’s presentation shed light on the journey towards self-discovery and becoming the best version of oneself.

The International Women’s Day Celebration 2024 was a testament to the collective effort in promoting gender equality, inclusivity, and empowerment. The event provided a platform for meaningful discussions, inspiring stories, and calls to action. It served as a reminder of the progress made in advancing women’s rights, while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done.

By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and fields, the celebration fostered an environment of collaboration and mutual support. It encouraged participants to reflect on the barriers that women face and to explore innovative solutions for creating a more inclusive society.

Events like the International Women’s Day Celebration 2024 play a vital role in raising awareness, promoting dialogue, and inspiring change. They serve as catalysts for transforming societies and ensuring that women’s voices are heard and valued in all spheres of life.

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us continue to champion gender equality, empower women, and work towards a future where every individual has equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to society.