The 11th-annual 2023 Forbes Power Women’s Summit was nothing short of a powerhouse gathering. Over 30 visionaries from diverse sectors like business, politics, sports, and entertainment came together at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. The event covered a broad spectrum of issues, from pay inequity and reproductive justice to cultural narratives and parenting. This year's event was a masterclass in innovation, inclusion, and empowerment. Here's a comprehensive rundown of the impactful sessions and unforgettable moments.
Opening Act: A Dynamic Performance
The summit started on a high note, with an unforgettable opening performance by acclaimed classical pianist Chloe Flower. Her dynamic act set the tone for an event dedicated to highlighting the impact and influence of women.
The Keynote Speeches That Resonated
The Future is Female: How Women are Shaping the New World Order
One of the summit’s opening keynotes, this panel featured luminaries like Melinda Gates and Arianna Huffington. The conversation revolved around how women leaders are driving change and innovation across sectors.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Perspectives from Fortune 500 CEOs
This eye-opening keynote had everyone talking. Top female CEOs discussed strategies for smashing through barriers and reaching the upper echelons of corporate leadership.
"Kindness is the most effective weapon you can have. It's disarming to come back and treat those who are not kind to you with kindness."
- Linda Thomas-Greenfield, United States Ambassador to the United Nations
Making Noise in Numbers: Collaboration and Empowerment
Sue Bird eloquently expressed the importance of collective action, especially in sports. The sentiment transcended sectors, underlining the necessity for women to band together to amplify change.
"Being in sports, the collaboration aspect is the secret sauce for women to drive change."- Sue Bird, WNBA All-Star & Co-founder, Together
Hard Truths and Inspiring Solutions
Several speakers, including Alexis McGill Johnson, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, emphasised the difficulty yet necessity of maintaining hope through adversity. The idea was that hope comes through hard work, resistance, and, most importantly, collaboration.
Leaving a Mark: The Activist Voices
Ariana DeBose, an Academy Award-winning actress and activist, mentioned, "You'll never regret showing people who you are." Her quote symbolised the summit's ethos, encouraging women to speak their truths, as doing so creates change and sparks engagement.
The Long Game: Being a Lifelong Apprentice
Ty Haney, an entrepreneur and investor, shed light on the concept of lifelong learning. "If you want to live life at full blast, try early and often and embrace this beginner's mindset," she advised.
Most Talked-About Panels
Sustainability and Women: A Synergy for Change
This panel examined the pivotal role women play in the sustainability sector. Topics ranged from ethical fashion to responsible investing.
Navigating the Digital Frontier: Women in Tech
Discussions around the gender gap in technology were at the forefront of this panel. The focus was on how women can leverage tech skills to make waves in this predominantly male-dominated industry.
Book-Banning and Reproductive Justice
This provocative panel unraveled topics around freedom of information and women's bodily autonomy, stimulating a comprehensive dialogue on reproductive rights.
Pay Inequity and Parenting
High-profile CEOs and human rights activists alike took to the stage to discuss the persistent wage gap and its repercussions on women, especially those balancing career and family life.
Networking: Connections that Count
The summit provided ample opportunity for networking. Breakout sessions and cocktail events allowed attendees to connect, share experiences, and potentially find their next mentor or business partner.
The Afterparty: A Night to Remember
Capping off the summit was an exquisite gala event. Accompanied by live music and delicious fare, the afterparty was not just a celebration of the summit, but of women’s progress and potential.
What’s Next: The 2024 Summit
If you missed this year’s event or can’t wait for the next one, mark your calendars for 2024. Given the resounding success of the 2023 summit, next year’s event promises to be even more electrifying.
"I'm no longer fighting against myself. I'm fighting for myself."- Mary J. Blige, Grammy and Emmy Award-Winning Artist
Final Thoughts
The 2023 Forbes Power Women’s Summit was more than an event; it was a communal space for learning, growing, and fostering connections. As we reflect on the transformational dialogues and experiences that transpired, it's clear that this summit was a milestone in the quest for gender parity and female empowerment.
The world is shifting, and women are no longer just part of the conversation — we are leading it. Here's to harnessing the inspiration and lessons from this year’s summit as we continue to thrive and make our mark.