Over the course of four transformative days, Yulia Stark, President of the EWA European Women’s Association, had the privilege of hosting the Women Business Forum, a collaborative initiative supported by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry غرفة تجـارة وصنـاعة الشارقــة and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Belgium in Brussels.
This forum brought together a dynamic group of women entrepreneurs from the Emirate of Sharjah, Belgium, and beyond, all with a shared vision of fostering business opportunities, empowering women in leadership roles, and strengthening ties between the regions.
Day 1: Exploring Innovation and Trade Policies
The journey began with a visit to GSK, a leading multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company with research and development operations based in Belgium. This provided valuable insights into the critical role innovation plays in advancing healthcare on a global scale.
Later, Yulia Stark and the delegation had the exclusive opportunity to visit the European Commission, where they explored European trade policies at DG Trade. This department oversees the EU’s trade relations with countries outside its borders, making it an essential touchpoint for understanding the framework that supports international commerce and economic cooperation.
Day 2: The Women Business Forum
The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the Women Business Forum, co-organized by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry and EWA. The forum underscored the pivotal role of women in business and how their economic empowerment is not only a matter of justice and equality but also a powerful catalyst for economic growth.
The shared conviction between Belgium 🇧🇪 and the UAE 🇦🇪 is clear: companies that embrace diversity, including gender parity, are better equipped to innovate and thrive. Women’s economic empowerment drives not only social progress but also business success, making it a critical priority for both nations. The forum served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the sharing of best practices that can help women entrepreneurs scale their ventures globally.
Day 3: Exploring Global Trade Hubs and Sharjah’s Role
On the final day, Yulia Stark and the delegation visited the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Europe’s second-largest trade hub and a key player in global commerce. This visit highlighted the immense potential for collaboration between Belgium and the UAE, particularly in sectors like logistics, shipping, and international trade.
Sharjah, with its strategic position and robust infrastructure, plays a central role in this success story. Many prominent Belgian companies have long-established operations in the Emirate, and others are actively exploring expansion opportunities. The visit culminated with an immersive cultural experience in Bruges, where Yulia and the delegation took a moment to appreciate the city’s rich history and vibrant heritage.
Networking and the Power of Collaboration
Throughout the event, a consistent theme was the power of networking. Building meaningful connections with other women entrepreneurs is essential to overcoming challenges, sharing knowledge, and celebrating successes. The Women Business Forum provided an ideal environment for fostering these connections and strengthening the bonds between Sharjah and Belgium.
By sharing experiences and insights, the forum empowered not only the individuals present but also created a resilient and supportive community dedicated to lifting one another up. This kind of collaboration is critical to driving long-term success and creating opportunities for future generations of women leaders.
Shaping the Future Together
As Yulia Stark reflects on this remarkable journey, the future of women-led businesses looks bright. She extends her sincere thanks to everyone involved in making the forum a success. Together, EWA will continue to champion the importance of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment in the business world, forging a path toward shared prosperity and innovation.