On 6–7 March 2026, BPW International convened women leaders from around the world in New York for the Leaders’ Summit 2026: a high-level forum for reflection, strategic alignment, and collective leadership.
With participants from 23 countries across all five regions, the Summit highlighted the strength, diversity, and global reach of BPW International. Leaders from different cultures and sectors came together to exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and shape the organization’s future.
Opening the Summit, International President Diana Barragán underscored the significance of this milestone year, as BPW celebrates 95 years of leadership, advocacy, and economic empowerment, calling for both reflection and renewed responsibility.
Guided by the triennium theme “Inspire, Innovate, Empower, Transform – Together We Shape a Sustainable Future,” the Summit addressed key strategic priorities, including ethical leadership, peace and conflict prevention, digital transformation and AI, organizational development, global advocacy, and the BPW Listens – Your Voice Matters initiative.
The success of the Summit was strongly supported by the outstanding leadership of PIP Liz Benham and Dawne Williams, whose work ensured both depth and coherence in the discussions. Liz Benham led the sessions on Peace and strengthened BPW International’s strategic partnerships with CoNGO and the UN Global Compact, while Dawne Williams guided the reflections on Ethical Leadership, reinforcing its central role within BPW’s mission.
A strong emphasis was placed on intergenerational leadership, illustrated by the active participation of young members, whose contributions reaffirmed BPW’s commitment to future-ready leadership.
In her closing remarks, President Barragán reminded participants:
“Leadership is not simply an agenda; it is a responsibility.”
and concluded with a clear call to action:
“We are not the caretakers of a legacy. We are the architects of the future.”
Held within the celebration of BPW International’s 95th anniversary, the Summit culminated in a Gala Dinner honoring the organization’s legacy while reaffirming its forward-looking vision.
More than a gathering, the Leaders’ Summit 2026 represented a collective commitment to listen, to lead, and to act together in advancing women’s economic empowerment and building a more inclusive and sustainable future.
