The Female Leaders stage at Innovations United 2024 celebrated the achievements and challenges of women across sports, business, technology, and wellness. The agenda covered everything from breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields to fostering health and well-being, offering attendees practical insights and inspiring stories. Here’s a recap of the day’s key sessions and speakers who contributed to this dynamic event.
A Warm Welcome to the Female Leaders Stage
The day began with an introduction by Michala Hergetová and Patrik Juránek, welcoming attendees to a day dedicated to female leadership, resilience, and innovation. Shortly after, Matt Field shared additional opening remarks, setting the stage for an empowering lineup of speakers and topics that followed.
Keynotes on Sports, Leadership, and Generational Perspectives
The initial keynotes highlighted women’s unique perspectives in sports and leadership, providing attendees with insights into navigating competitive environments.
- Women in Sports: Markéta Vochoska Haindlová took the stage to discuss her journey in sports, emphasizing the significance of resilience and determination. Her talk inspired participants to break through barriers and challenge norms in any field they pursue.
- Gen Z Leadership: Olga Ksenzova presented Gen Z’s approach to leadership, bringing a fresh perspective to how younger generations are shaping business and societal expectations. Her talk resonated with young leaders and established professionals eager to understand Gen Z’s motivations and leadership styles.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Panel Discussion on Women’s Empowerment
A highlight of the morning was the panel discussion titled Cracking the Glass Ceiling. Vikas Malhotra, Karolina Bosáková, Markéta Vochoska Haindlová, and Olga Ksenzova shared personal stories and strategies for overcoming obstacles faced by women in professional settings. They addressed the importance of mentorship, representation, and community support in fostering a work environment where women can thrive and lead.
Foundations of Well-being and Neuroscience for Female Leaders
The Female Leaders stage didn’t just focus on professional growth; it also emphasized the critical role of personal well-being in achieving long-term success.
- Foundations of Well-being: Michaela Steinhauser presented on structuring a balanced life, discussing the pillars of well-being and how simple habits can lead to resilience and productivity. Her talk underscored the importance of managing stress and maintaining mental health, particularly in high-stakes roles.
- The Female Leader’s Brain: Sana Ross took a scientific approach to leadership, revealing neuroscience insights into how women in high-stress roles can thrive. Her focus on understanding brain health and stress management gave attendees valuable tools for excelling in demanding environments.
Health & Well-being Panel: Fostering a Holistic Approach to Leadership
The day’s focus on wellness continued with the Health & Well-being panel. Moderated by Michala Hergetová, this panel featured Olga Chabr Grillova, Monika Mašková, and Kateřina Havrlant. The discussion covered practical methods for maintaining well-being while juggling professional responsibilities. Panelists shared personal experiences on managing physical health, mental clarity, and emotional resilience, offering the audience actionable insights.
Fireside Chat with a Power Couple: Inspiration and Balance
The event’s fireside chat, Power Couple, featured Tania le Moigne and Vassili le Moigne, with Michala Hergetová moderating. In this candid conversation, the duo shared insights on balancing personal and professional lives while supporting each other’s careers. Their discussion highlighted the value of mutual respect and collaboration in fostering personal growth and professional success.
Afternoon Keynotes on Impact, Inclusion, and Equity
The afternoon sessions focused on creating inclusive workplaces, driving impact, and fostering equity.
- Inspire & Impact: Tania le Moigne and Renata Mrázová shared stories of leadership in male-dominated industries, emphasizing how women can drive meaningful change and inspire others along the way. Their experiences encouraged attendees to leverage their unique perspectives to make a lasting impact.
- Cultivating Equity and Inclusion: Laura Barcziová provided a practical approach to fostering equity in the workplace, advocating for shared team responsibilities and a culture of inclusivity. Her talk addressed how companies can implement strategies that encourage collaboration and build a sense of belonging among team members.
DEI Company Culture: A Panel on Building Inclusive Workplaces
The DEI Company Culture panel featured Ivana Caha Šedivá, Marian Gazdik, Arta Istrefi, Markéta Šimáčková, and Lola Onipko. This session was particularly valuable for leaders aiming to build diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments. Panelists discussed real-world challenges and solutions for fostering an inclusive culture, highlighting the importance of representation, open dialogue, and shared accountability.
Closing Remarks and Networking
As the day drew to a close, Michala Hergetová provided closing remarks, summarizing the insights shared throughout the event. She encouraged attendees to continue championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in their fields. The day concluded with a networking session, allowing attendees to connect, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations.
Key Takeaways from the Female Leaders Stage
The sessions and discussions on the Female Leaders stage provided a wealth of insights for attendees. Here are some of the day’s key takeaways:
- Breaking Barriers: Whether in sports, business, or technology, women continue to challenge the status quo, demonstrating resilience and commitment.
- Generational Influence: Gen Z’s values and leadership styles bring fresh perspectives, urging companies to adapt and embrace change for the future.
- The Importance of Well-being: Success is built on a foundation of mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Prioritizing health is essential for sustaining high performance.
- Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace: Building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace benefits all. Realizing this vision requires intentionality, shared responsibility, and a supportive culture.
For those interested in reliving the event or catching up on moments they may have missed, the Female Leaders Photo Gallery captures highlights from the day, showcasing memorable moments and the energy of the sessions.
Conclusion
The Female Leaders stage at Innovations United 2024 offered an empowering lineup of speakers and discussions, underscoring the importance of resilience, collaboration, and well-being in leadership. This event marks a significant step forward in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women across industries, setting the stage for future growth and innovation. We thank all the attendees, speakers, and partners who made this inspiring day possible.
