To commemorate International Women’s Day, an event under the theme ‘Celebrating Women in Leadership’ was organised by Pakistan Embassy in Ankara with the participation of prominent international women leaders from diverse fields of life including politics, diplomacy, education, sports and media.
The event featured inspirational keynote speeches by Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye H.E Dr. YousafJunaid , Member Turkish Parliament H.E SerapYaziciOzbudun, Vice Rector Ankara University Prof. DrYaseminKepenekci, Spouse of Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister and President DMEDD (Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spouses Solidarity Association) Prof. DrSebnemAkcapar, renowned gender expert Prof. FerideAcar, President Spouse Head of Mission (SHOM) Association Ms. LoumaKabalanMoallem and Turkish archer Ms. GizemGirismen, followed by an interactive session over lunch. Besides the speakers, the event was attended by 45 women leaders from different spheres of life.
In his speech, Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye paid rich tribute to the invaluable contribution of women to society, economy and culture. He stated that in Islam women are held in high esteem as they are the real architects of the society. While appreciating Turkish first lady H.E EmineErdogan’s vision of ‘strong women, strong family, strong society’, the ambassador stated that it is important that we work together to dismantle barriers that still hold women back, shatter glass ceilings and create an equitable world for our future generations.
Speaking on the occasion, Member Turkish Parliament H.E SerapYaziciOzbudun highlighted that it is imperative to establish comprehensive support mechanism to ensure that women have equal access to opportunities in every area from education to employment. Vice Rector Ankara University Prof. DrYaseminKepenekci underscored the importance of education in setting the foundation for equal opportunity and ability to advocate for equal rights. President DMEDD Prof. Dr. SebnemAkcapar reiterated on the importance of women empowerment and participation in professional life as a pre-requisite for sustainable growth. Prof. FerideAcar emphasized on engagement and support from men as a critical factor in achieving the goal of gender equality.
