On November 8th, 2024, the European Institute for Diplomacy and Policy (EIDP) proudly presented the GUIDE Project at the WYN Global Virtual Summit, delivering an impactful session titled “Journey of Empowerment: Navigating Entrepreneurship as a Woman.” This engaging presentation highlighted the challenges women face in career development and entrepreneurship while showcasing actionable solutions developed by the GUIDE Project.
With more than 200 online participants from around the globe, the session reached a diverse and engaged audience of policymakers, educators, and professionals. This global reach underscored the widespread resonance of the GUIDE Project’s mission and its potential to address gender biases on an international scale.
The presentation opened by addressing the societal biases and systemic barriers that hinder women’s progress in entrepreneurship and career paths. From unequal access to resources to entrenched stereotypes, these challenges often limit opportunities and perpetuate inequity. The GUIDE Project aims to dismantle these barriers through innovative tools and resources that empower career guidance professionals to foster gender-sensitive support.
Attendees were introduced to cutting-edge solutions developed by the GUIDE Project, including bias detection systems and co-creation models. These tools are designed to equip professionals with the skills and strategies needed to guide individuals toward bias-free career and entrepreneurial decisions. Through vivid storytelling, real-world examples, and interactive discussions, the session demonstrated how these solutions are already driving change across partner countries.
A key focus of the presentation was the potential of entrepreneurship as a pathway for empowerment. Entrepreneurship provides individuals the opportunity to innovate, lead, and challenge societal norms. However, the session acknowledged the additional hurdles women face, such as unequal access to funding, mentorship, and professional networks. These insights underscored the critical need for gender-sensitive guidance tools that not only support career counseling but also address these systemic disparities within entrepreneurial ecosystems.
The interactive format of the session encouraged participants to share their perspectives and experiences, creating a dynamic dialogue about overcoming gender-based stereotypes. Features such as live polls and case study demonstrations made the presentation especially impactful, showcasing practical applications of the GUIDE Project’s tools in real-world scenarios.
The session concluded with a hopeful vision for a future where opportunities are determined by talent and passion rather than outdated societal norms. The GUIDE Project’s participation at the WYN Summit marked a significant milestone in its ongoing journey to foster equality and inclusivity in career and entrepreneurial development. With the engagement of a global audience, the GUIDE Project continues to drive meaningful change and inspire collective action toward a more equitable world.
