Embracing Dreams Amidst Life's Crossroads: My Journey to the International Entrepreneurship Forum In Greece.

Imagine standing at a crossroads where your lifelong dreams intersect with the relentless demands of reality. That was precisely where I found myself as I approached my 50th birthday. Greece, a land rich in history, culture, innovation, and delectable cuisine, had always been at the top of my travel wishlist. Then, an unexpected invitation arrived: to attend the International Women's Entrepreneurship Forum in Athens, coinciding with my milestone celebrations. The decision was far from easy, with competing priorities and responsibilities waiting for attention.

Yet, sometimes life offers opportunities that resonate deeply with our innermost aspirations. I chose to embrace this chance, altering my plans to make the journey to Greece. And it didn’t disappoint. From the moment I landed, I was like a 10-year-old kid again, absorbing everything with wide-eyed wonder. The Greek salad tasted fresher, the view of the Acropolis was more awe-inspiring, and the discussions at the entrepreneurship forum were incredibly enriching.

My stay was brief, just four days, but it was a whirlwind of experiences that fulfilled many of my dreams. This trip was a poignant reminder of the importance of saying "Yes" to life's opportunities, even when it seems daunting. The rewards, as I discovered, can be profoundly life-changing.

Now, let me take you through the insights and opportunities that emerged from the Athens Entrepreneurship forum, a convergence of minds and ideas that could shape the future of global entrepreneurship.

The International Women's Entrepreneurship Forum in Athens, Greece, was a pivotal gathering, uniting a diverse international delegation to discuss the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and international business. Here's an in-depth look at the key themes and insights from this significant event.

Global Perspectives on Women Led Entrepreneurship

From December 1 to 3, leaders and entrepreneurs, including myself, converged in Athens to exchange ideas on fostering competitiveness and growth in a rapidly changing, interconnected global economy. The event, organized by the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce and the ΕΕΔΕΓΕ National Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs under the auspices of the leadership of Sofia Kounenaki Efraimoglou, President of EBEA and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, served as a vibrant platform for this dialogue.

The Power of Diversity in Leadership

A central theme was the crucial role of diversity in driving business success. Conversations with executives from sectors like shipping, import/export, and agriculture emphasized the need for diverse workforces and leadership teams. The consensus was clear: diverse teams significantly outperform those lacking diversity, making them essential for thriving in today's business environment.

Women and Underrepresented Groups in Business

The forum stressed the importance of including more women and other underrepresented groups in the business world. This inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity to create robust economies with wide participation. Manuela Doutel Haghighi led a powerful conversation on SMART Business Owner and it unlocked what we all need to do to stop listening to our MOM's advice.

Embracing Cloud and AI Technologies in a Volatile Economy

Another key discussion point was the impact of technology on all aspects of business. In the face of global economic volatility, adapting to technological advancements is no longer optional but a fundamental requirement for staying competitive. This vibrant event highlighted several crucial opportunities and challenges in the entrepreneurial landscape. Here are the top three takeaways:

1. Skilling in Cloud and AI Technologies

A significant emphasis was placed on the need for enhancing skills in cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI). As technology continues to advance, it becomes increasingly important for women entrepreneurs to stay at the forefront of these changes. Training and development in these areas are not just a luxury but a necessity for growing talent bases and staying competitive.

2. The Need for Smart Business Leadership and Role Models

Another focal point was the shortage of smart business leadership and role models in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The forum stressed the importance of having more women in leadership roles to inspire and guide upcoming entrepreneurs. This gap presents an opportunity for established entrepreneurs to mentor and support the new generation.

3. Establishment of Innovation Funds and Proactive Tech Policies

The forum also discussed the critical need for innovation funds, especially in sectors like agriculture, tourism, entertainment and technology. These funds would help in incubating new businesses and exploring untapped markets. Additionally, there was a call for more proactive technology policies to support and sustain entrepreneurial ventures.

Beyond Business: The Essence of Athens

What made the forum truly memorable was not just the business insights but the overall experience of Athens. The city's rich history, warm people, and exquisite food all contributed to an atmosphere of collaboration and shared values, especially the commitment to democracy.

Celebrating Trailblazers: Inspirational Icons of the Athens Forum

The International Women's Entrepreneurship Forum in Athens was not just a gathering of minds; it was a celebration of trailblazing women who are redefining the landscape of global entrepreneurship. Their contributions, insights, and leadership have left an indelible mark on all who attended. Here's a tribute to these remarkable women:

Christine Warnke: A Beacon of Leadership

Christine Warnke stood out as a paragon of leadership savvy. Her ability to navigate complex dialogues with ease and insight was nothing short of inspiring. Christine is a true icon, a role model whose leadership style left a lasting impact on me. Observing her was a masterclass in strategic thinking and engagement.

Marina Ofloudis-Giavroglou: The Embodiment of Success

Marina Ofloudis-Giavroglou, an industry tycoon & icon in every sense, extended an invitation that brought us together to explore powerful and influential platform for women. Her words, "Yes. I agree. Let's do it," resonated profoundly, encapsulating the very essence of entrepreneurial leadership. Her success story is a testament to the power of affirmative action and decisive leadership.

Sophia Efraimoglou: The Architect of Change

Sophia Efraimoglou deserves a special mention for her visionary role in the creation of the International Women's Entrepreneurship Forum. Her belief in the power of a platform dedicated to women entrepreneurs led to the conception of this impactful event. Sophia's leadership in orchestrating this forum, in partnership with ambassadors, business leaders, university leaders, and investors, is nothing short of remarkable. She stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the extraordinary results it can yield. Her brainchild has not only brought together some of the best minds in the industry but also created a vibrant space for growth, learning, and empowerment. Sophia's contribution is a beacon of inspiration, showcasing what can be achieved through vision, collaboration, and dedicated effort.

Barbara Clarke: The Investment Visionary

Barbara Clarke, with her remarkable journey of investing in over 60 companies, epitomized entrepreneurial spirit and vision. Her insights were not just informative but deeply inspiring. Barbara's approach to investment and her keen understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem made her an invaluable buddy and mentor at the forum.

Poli Gaki : The Humble Luminary

Poli, a distinguished lawyer, stood out for her warmth and humility despite her immense accomplishments. Meeting her was a reminder that true greatness is often accompanied by a deep sense of humbleness. Her approachability and wisdom made every interaction with her both enlightening and heartwarming.

Manuela Doutel Haghighi: The EU Powerhouse

Manuela Doutel Haghighi's presence at the forum was like a masterclass in smart business ownership. Representing Microsoft, she shared invaluable insights that left us in awe. Manuela's expertise and clarity in presentation highlighted the attributes of a powerful, informed leader in the European business landscape.

Elisa Kiritsaka: A Bond Beyond Borders

Meeting Elisa Kiritsaka felt like discovering a long-lost sister. Our instant connection, especially over our shared love for marketing, was one of the highlights of the forum. Her enthusiasm and expertise in marketing were not just engaging but deeply relatable.

maya gaki: The Storyteller Extraordinaire

Maya Gaki, a journalist and a creative architect of stories, is a distinguished leader who significantly enhanced our experience in Greece. Her unique ability to weave and narrate stories touched our hearts deeply. Maya's connections extended beyond the realm of journalism; she facilitated valuable connections with film producers and policymakers, enriching our forum experience manifold. Her talent in storytelling and her extensive network have not only illuminated our discussions but have also created avenues for further collaboration and exploration.

Their insights, experiences, and contributions were invaluable, and they embody the spirit of entrepreneurship that the forum celebrated.

The International Women's Entrepreneurship Forum was not just an event; it was a beacon of hope and a roadmap for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs in the EU region. It underlined the critical areas where we need to focus and grow, alongside celebrating the communal spirit and democratic values that make endeavors like these worthwhile.

Stay tuned as we continue to develop and implement the ideas from this groundbreaking event, fostering a more inclusive, competitive, and technologically advanced business landscape.

If you are in EU and/or from Greece, please get in touch with me so we can invite you to join the whatsapp group to engage in amazing and rich conversations.