Empowering the next generation of female leaders in Zambia
To mark the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, EU Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, Karolina Stasiak, hosted an event at the EU Residence, bringing together diplomats and young leaders to explore how more women can be supported to pursue leadership roles in diplomacy and public service.
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The event highlighted both the progress women have made in diplomatic leadership and the continued need to create more inclusive pathways for future generations.
The first panel discussion, Inspirational Stories: Women in Diplomacy, featured senior women leaders who shared candid reflections on their professional journeys, the barriers they have overcome, and the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly complex global landscape. Ambassador Karolina Stasiak was joined by the Swedish Embassy's Head of Cooperation, Christine Wedekull, the EU Delegation's Head of Administration, Eeva Tella, and Team Leader Lana Zutelija. Representatives from EU Member States also contributed to the discussion, with Finland sharing its achievement of gender parity in diplomacy and France and Germany offering reflections on advancing women's leadership.
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The second panel, Raising the Voices of Young People, placed young women at the centre of the conversation. Moderated by Revay Ndhlovu of the EU Zambia Youth Sounding Board, the discussion featured Sabertha Zulu, Founder of Donate a Pad, Rebecca Mumba of the Swedish Youth Network, and Hope Mukwinda of the EU-AU Youth Voices Advisory Board. Panelists shared their aspirations, experiences, and recommendations for creating more inclusive opportunities for young women seeking careers in diplomacy and public service.
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A number of key recommendations emerged from the discussions. Participants highlighted the importance of visible and inspiring role models who demonstrate that leadership in diplomacy is attainable. Mentorship and networking were identified as essential tools for helping young women build confidence, build capacity, and navigate professional challenges. Expanding access to internships, fellowships, and professional development opportunities was also recognised as critical to developing the next generation of leaders.
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The discussions further emphasised the need for strong support systems involving families, educational institutions (especially teachers), communities, and workplaces that encourage young women to pursue their ambitions. Participants called for more family-friendly workplace cultures and policies that support a healthy balance between professional and personal responsibilities. They also stressed that there is no single pathway into diplomacy and encouraged young women follow their passion and gain experience through student leadership opportunities, civil society, youth initiatives, academia, development work, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.
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Young participants highlighted the growing importance of social media as a tool for advocacy, networking, learning, and accessing professional opportunities, particularly for emerging leaders seeking to expand their reach and influence.
The event concluded with a powerful message: when women are empowered to lead, societies become stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient. Supporting young women in diplomacy is not simply about increasing representation; it is about ensuring that the leaders shaping our future reflect the diversity, talent, passion, and potential of the communities they serve.
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Ahead of the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, the EU Delegation also launched a social media campaign featuring staff reflections on why women's representation across all sectors remains essential to building more inclusive and effective institutions.