Innovating Women's Leadership Across Sectors: A Conversation with H.E. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, President of Mauritius
On October 2, 2017, the Women in Public Service Project and Africa Program at the Wilson Center co-hosted a conversation with Her Excellency Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, President of Mauritius. The panel was moderated by Gwen K. Young, Director of the Global Women's Leadership Initiative and the Women in Public Service Project at the Wilson Center.
Overview
The impact of women's voices in decision-making transcends sectors and industries, and few global leaders have more direct experience with this than President Gurib-Fakim. The first woman to serve as president of Mauritius and one of only four women presidents in Africa, President Gurib-Fakim is also an internationally acclaimed scientist and dedicated advocate for engaging women and girls in STEM innovation.
President Gurib-Fakim spoke about the advancements made in Mauritius and internationally, and how individuals can work to create environments that encourage gender parity.
Key Quotes"If women are left out of full participation in 21st-century aspirations, we will not achieve gender equality, nor realize our broader goals for growth, prosperity, and well-being, including scientific advancement."
"When science is rejected as a career choice, it is often due to limited information and the dearth of positive role models to encourage young girls to participate."
"Women must be empowered with knowledge, technology, financial resources, and land. Increasing access to financial mechanisms and removing legal barriers are among the many ways that women can stay in the workforce and achieve their fullest potential."
Photo: International Labour Organization via Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Moderator
Hosted By
Global Women's Leadership Initiative
The Global Women’s Leadership Initiative has hosted the Women in Public Service Project at the Wilson Center since June, 2012. The Women in Public Service Project will accelerate global progress towards women’s equal participation in policy and political leadership to create more dynamic and inclusive institutions that leverage the full potential of the world’s population to change the way global solutions are forged. Read more
Africa Program
The Africa Program works to address the most critical issues facing Africa and US-Africa relations, build mutually beneficial US-Africa relations, and enhance knowledge and understanding about Africa in the United States. The Program achieves its mission through in-depth research and analyses, public discussion, working groups, and briefings that bring together policymakers, practitioners, and subject matter experts to analyze and offer practical options for tackling key challenges in Africa and in US-Africa relations. Read more
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