Fortaleza took another important step toward hosting the 2027 BPW International Congress with the first official inspection visit held from 23 to 25 July 2026. The visit brought together representatives of BPW International, BPW Brazil, and BPW Fortaleza for technical inspections, institutional meetings, and strategic planning sessions that will guide the next stages of preparation for one of BPW International's most significant global events.
Representing BPW International, the delegation included President Diana Barragán, President's Office Director Yasmin Darwich, Young BPW International Representative Izadora Letchacoski, and Director of Communications Camila de Moura, who also serves as International Relations Coordinator of BPW Fortaleza. Together with BPW Brazil President Maria Helena Bonotto and First Vice President Claudia Pirani, they demonstrated the close collaboration between the international, national, and local leadership teams.
During the three-day visit, the delegation met with local authorities and prospective partners, conducted technical inspections of potential Congress venues, and reached agreement on the key organizational priorities that will guide the next stages of preparation. The program also included a strategic planning meeting bringing together BPW International, BPW Brazil, and BPW Fortaleza to coordinate future work.
The local program was coordinated by BPW Fortaleza, with the active involvement of Senior Advisor Penha Moura, and Vice Presidents Regina Dall'Olio and Chris Estrela, whose work was instrumental in coordinating the program, accompanying the delegation, and facilitating meetings with local authorities and prospective partners.
The 2027 BPW International Congress will be held jointly with CONFAM – the Convention of BPW Brazil Associations, and will welcome BPW members, leaders, and partners from around the world to Fortaleza for a unique gathering dedicated to women's leadership, collaboration, and international engagement.
Reflecting on the visit, President Diana Barragán described this first inspection as the beginning of an exciting journey toward the 2027 Congress. She emphasized that the close collaboration between the Host Planning Committee (HPC) and the International Planning Committee (IPC) will be fundamental to delivering an exceptional event, reaffirming her confidence that, through cooperation, mutual respect, and shared commitment, BPW will organize an outstanding International Congress.
President Barragán also expressed her sincere appreciation to all those whose dedication and teamwork contributed to the success of the visit. She gave special recognition to Chris Estrela for her exceptional support before and throughout the program. Her commitment, efficiency, and excellent relationships with local authorities were instrumental in facilitating key meetings, advancing important aspects of the Congress planning, and further strengthening the partnership between BPW International and the local community.
Concluding the visit, President Barragán shared her optimism about the work accomplished so far and the collaborative spirit that will continue to guide preparations over the coming months.
“I leave Fortaleza with great confidence in what we can accomplish together. I am convinced that, by continuing to work in a spirit of cooperation, mutual respect, and shared commitment, we will organize an outstanding BPW International Congress in 2027.”
