The Week That Was: Global Women Empowerment News Overview (4 September - 9 September)

Women are assuming crucial leadership roles across various sectors, breaking barriers, and driving social change. Accomplished female leaders are making their mark in politics, economics, science, technology, and the arts. These women are inspiring role models, showcasing their skills, competence, and unwavering determination to motivate others. They actively promote diversity and inclusion through their leadership, emphasizing that gender should never hinder success.

In addition to their achievements, women in leadership advocate for social justice, gender equality, and human rights, addressing systemic issues and challenging biases. Despite gender-related challenges, these women display remarkable resilience. Their increasing presence in leadership is shaping a more inclusive society for all, highlighting the vast potential of women's leadership.

Explore the latest accomplishments of female leaders at theglobalwomanleader.com.

Irish Tech Challenge Announced for SA startups; Emphasis on Young, black, Women-owned Businesses

The Irish Embassy in South Africa has announced the opening of applications for the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa 2023, in collaboration with Wits University's Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), and Dogpatch Labs Ireland.

Using Ireland's prominence as a worldwide high-tech centre, this competition intends to foster profitable relationships between South African technopreneurs and Irish technology specialists.

Female-Directed Hollywood Movies that Set the Box Office on Fire

In a dazzling triumph of cinematic artistry, Greta Gerwig's "Barbie" has emerged as a colossal box-office sensation, captivating audiences around the globe. As of August 30, 2023, the film has shattered records and rewritten history, amassing an awe-inspiring $1.345 billion in worldwide box office earnings.

Throughout cinematic history, women have made significant contributions to the world of film, both in front of and behind the camera. While their representation and opportunities have often been limited, women-directed movies have consistently demonstrated remarkable storytelling prowess and artistic innovation.

Iranian innovators hounoured at IFIA & KIWIE contests

Iranian innovators received medals and honours at the International Federation of Innovators' Association (IFIA) and Korea International Women's Invention Exposition (KIWIE) International Invention and Innovation Competition. The third International Ideas and Inventions Competition was held in person and online from August 20 to 22.

Faraz Sadeghi Moghadam and Mohammad Rezaei were awarded the silver prize at the IFIA INV Members for developing "the portable solar refrigerator." Sadeghi Moghadam oversaw the presentation of the innovation.

Barri Rafferty joins Morrow Sodali as CEO of America

Barri Rafferty, former global CEO of Ketchum, has been appointed CEO of the Americas by Morrow Sodali. Barri, who is a member of the firm's executive committee, will lead the stakeholder engagement and ESG consulting firm's activities across North and South America in his newly formed job. Barri, who most recently headed communications at Wells Fargo, reports to global CEO Alvise Recchi.

Morrow Sodali highlighted Barri’s capacity to help firms adapt and DEI advocacy, as well as her recent work as temporary CEO of women's business leadership organisation C200 and assistance of start-ups and mid-sized enterprises as a consultant, in announcing the appointment.

ACORNS Initiative Looking for Ambitious Female Entrepreneurs in Rural Ireland

The very successful ACORNS programme is looking for ambitious female entrepreneurs from Westmeath and beyond to join its ranks in order to encourage entrepreneurial spirit and boost enterprises in rural Ireland. This free development programme has been critical in assisting and encouraging early-stage female entrepreneurs to achieve their aspirations.

Eibhlin Fitzpatrick, the creator of The Refill Mill in Mullingar, is one such success story. According to Eibhlin, "I was thrilled to be a part of ACORNS 8; it has been invaluable to my business." Her quest began with her dissatisfaction with the excessive usage of plastic wrapping in everyday things. She founded The Refill Mill, a plastic-free retail outlet that encourages customers to lessen their dependency on single-use plastics, because she was determined to make a difference.

HerHeadquarters Launches Woman-owned Business Certification to Empower Underrepresented Women Entrepreneurs

HerHeadquarters has released its much anticipated Woman-owned Business Certification in a revolutionary step to address the continuing problems and inequities experienced by disadvantaged women entrepreneurs in the United States. This effort was born out of the continued need to remove the barriers and red tape that have hampered disadvantaged women entrepreneurs obtaining certification through existing programmes.

Whanganui's "Women Who Lead" Event Series Celebrates Female Leadership & Community Connection

Whanganui is set to witness a new initiative, the "Women Who Lead" event series, aimed at fostering connections among women in the community. This collaboration between Women’s Network Whanganui and Sport Whanganui seeks to celebrate and inspire female leadership across various fields.

The series will kick off with a dynamic launch event featuring Cath Cheatley, a former Olympic cyclist. Cath Cheatley will share her rich experiences and insights, both as a former professional athlete and as the owner of successful local businesses, Cycle Sport NZ and Velo Ronny’s Bicycle Store. Her story embodies resilience and innovation.