On October 22, 2024, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, delivered a compelling keynote address at the World Trade Center Utah, focusing on the critical issues of gender equality and global women’s empowerment. Her presence at this prestigious event underscored the importance of international collaboration in advancing the rights and opportunities for women worldwide.
Dr. Bio’s address resonated with the audience, including key state leaders and trade experts such as Jonathan Freedman, President of the World Trade Center Utah, where she graciously articulated the pressing need for gender parity in various sectors, emphasizing that empowering women is not only a moral imperative but also a vital component of sustainable economic growth.
The First Lady carefully highlighted that gender equality remains an unfinished agenda in many parts of the world. In her remarks, she referenced the significant strides made in Sierra Leone since her husband took office, including initiatives aimed at increasing women’s representation in government and supporting female entrepreneurship. She argued that these initiatives serve as a blueprint for other nations seeking to enhance women’s roles in their economies.
“Empowering women is not just about giving them opportunities,” she stated, “it’s about changing the narrative and creating environments where women can thrive.”
Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s keynote at the World Trade Center Utah served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and women’s empowerment globally. As the world grapples with various challenges, the message is clear: empowering women is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal necessity that can lead to a more prosperous and equitable world for everyone.
Credit:
Strategic Communications Division,
Office of the First Lady,
Republic of Sierra Leone
