Under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the WBAF World Congress gathered global changemakers on 19-20 November 2024 to forge a more inclusive and sustainable financial future.

For the European Women’s Association (EWA), this Congress marked a critical moment to amplify our mission: advancing women’s economic empowerment, fostering cross-border collaboration, and building ecosystems where entrepreneurship and innovation drive social change.

In a powerful session led by Sheikha Mariam Bint Hamad Al Khalifa, discussions centered around advancing financial literacy, developing inclusive investment funds, and unlocking opportunities for women entrepreneurs worldwide.

In dialogue with Swati Mandela, we explored strategies to achieve financial inclusion, dismantle systemic barriers, and create scalable, sustainable pathways for underserved communities to thrive.

Yves Leterme, former Prime Minister of Belgium, emphasized the transformative power of entrepreneurship, innovation, and access to finance — especially when driven by collaborative leadership and a commitment to social impact.

Held at the prestigious Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, the Congress provided an unparalleled platform to catalyze global partnerships, bridge opportunities across industries, and mobilize collective action toward a more equitable economic future.

We are deeply grateful to the WBAF leadership, the royal family of Bahrain, and the distinguished community of global leaders who joined forces to accelerate sustainable, inclusive economic transformation.

At EWA, we remain committed to empowering women entrepreneurs, shaping resilient economies, and building a future where inclusive leadership drives meaningful change.