Mongolia

Felicitation of the National Presidents at the Global World Trade Summit

‘When Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) come together, it can create an Economic Tsunami’ were the words that set the momentum at the inauguration of the Global Women’s Trade Summit held in Ulaan Baater, Mongolia on 6th and 7th September, 2018. These were the words which came from the depths of the heart of the dynamic founder of the International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI), Ms. Diana Abruzzi. What a vision this marvelous woman had when she founded a Chamber of Commerce for Women all across the globe to network and build up their businesses.

IWFCI ladies in their traditional best

The venue was the Zaisan Hills Convention Centre. There were young women entrepreneurs milling around, exchanging business cards, networking and energizing the atmosphere. The spirit of entrepreneurship was in the air as delegates discussed their businesses and looked out for collaborations wherever businesses matched. The vibrant colorful clothes of the different nations lent a festive air to the convention.

The success stories of women entrepreneurs who led the way were mesmerizing. Dato Elaine Teh of Malaysia who started Octopus Holdings held the audience spellbound with her presentation of her business and stressed on the need to give back to society when one attains success. Karen Kim, started a music school in Melbourne, Australia. When her family expected her to stick to just teaching music to children in her home, she ventured further and started her own music school. Sheryl Lee Francis of Arizona, USA recounted stories of Native American Women Entrepreneurs whose voices have to be heard and their entrepreneurial skills recognized.

Baigali and Karen Kim’s violin recital

Baigali Ochkhuu, the President of the Mongolian Chapter of IWFCI was the delightful hostess greeting and making everyone feel comfortable. Baigali’s and Karen Kim’s melodious violin recital of a Bach composition formed a celestial choir. The torch handing over ceremony to Korea for the next convention was ceremoniously done with Sophie Kang beckoning the audience to Busan, South Korea with a captivating video on the tourist and entertainment highlights of Busan.

I realized at the Summit that networking is crucial for professional success. Whilst networking I was introduced to Anne Phua of Singapore who was at her networking best when she spoke spiritedly about her new venture Hemispheres – A Youth Movement for a new earth. Annie Chan, President IWFCI Singapore spoke animatedly about her Events consultancy company REDBOX. We gained tremendously from each one’s experience and knowledge and got insights into entrepreneurial pathways.

Signing the Agreement protocol for India with Diana

This great gathering of women in business inspired me. It is women like Diana who lead the way, striving steadfastly to achieve the goals set by her organization. Philip Rusco CEO of DMI in his keynote speech said that when comparing old businesses to new businesses, he could see more women participation, more gender equality and more women in higher positions. This can happen only when committed women lift others up while they climb the ladder to success.

Gangdan Monastery, Mongolia

Beautiful memories of a convention held in landlocked Mongolia with its high mountain ranges and forested peaks. The land of Chingis Khan and nomadic lifestyles. We feasted on delicious soups and succulent meats. And returned back home energerised and spirited to open a new IWFCI chapter for India.