In a warm and empowering gathering to mark the International Day of Women in Diplomacy, the European Union Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, Karolina Stasiak, hosted an intimate and engaging event at the EU Residence that brought together women leaders, media professionals, and young change makers for a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences.

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The event, aligning with the EU’s commitment to gender equality under the EU Gender Action Plan, created a space for reflection, dialogue, and mentorship, inspiring the next generation of young women who are already agents of change in their communities. It also celebrated the role of female leaders in shaping a more inclusive, more diverse and fairer world.

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The conversation was guided by thought-provoking questions that sparked honest and inspiring insights from some of Zambia’s most prominent female voices:

• EU Ambassador shared her reflections on the personal and professional experiences that shaped her career.

• Ms. Etambuyu Gundersen, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussed lessons learned from a young age on the importance hardwork, focus and determination.

• Ireland’s Ambassador to Zambia, Bronagh Carr spoke candidly about her experiences at the top and offered advice to aspiring female leaders.

• Media professionals Ms. Emelda Musonda and Ms. Musonda Bwalya tackled complex issues such as networking and mentoring journalists, sexual harassment, and the power of storytelling.

• Young advocate Ruth Kangwa offered insights into using digital platforms for civic action and the importance of youth engagement in policy spaces.

The discussion also touched on key issues such as emotional bias in leadership, male allyship, and the evolving challenges and opportunities facing future generations of female leaders.

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The event was attended by over 20 women from diverse sectors, including journalism, the diplomatic and public service, civil society, and youth activists. Young people from the Global Platform brought fresh energy to the conversation, sharing how they are influencing change at the community level.

As the discussions gave way to informal networking over lunch on the terrace, one message echoed clearly throughout the event: Women in Diplomacy are powerful drivers of change.

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On the EU Zambia social media platforms, we posted an inspirational video of female Ambassadors giving advice to the next generation of diplomats.