The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation empowers rural women to harness technology for a sustainable future
on 25/11/2024
Monday 25th November 2024, Velika Gorica
The second edition of The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation, held in the Croatian countryside near Zagreb, brought together 20 talented rural women from across Europe, ready to lead their communities into the digital age. Under the umbrella of the renowned European Leadership Academy (ELA), over 50 global thought leaders and mentors joined the groundbreaking programme to share their expertise and underscore the pivotal role of women in creating new opportunities for rural Europe.
The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation presents a unique learning experience, providing participants with the opportunity to dialogue and learn from global mentors and expert speakers. The programme demonstrates Huawei’s continued commitment to closing both the gender gap and the urban-rural gap, contributing to a world where rural women are empowered to shape a sustainable, digital future. Students participate in panel discussions, lectures, deep-dive workshops and teambuilding activities on entrepreneurship, the use of new technologies for green innovation and the digitalisation of SMEs through to accessing funding and placing local products in global markets. Participants are encouraged to explore solutions that can deliver tangible results in their regions, becoming role models for other rural women.
Tony Yong JIN, Executive Vice-President of Huawei European Region expressed pride in the company’s continued commitment to providing equal chances to women in a digital world: “If we talk about rural development, we all know digital technologies play an important role. It’s not just a tool. It’s the backbone of connectivity, of learning and caring for others. Huawei has been deeply rooted in Europe for the last 20 years. We are part of society. We have not only contributed to the digital economy and infrastructure, but we are also bringing the green transition to companies and families.”
At the closing ceremony of this 2024 edition, European Leadership Academy Director, Berta HERRERO, Head of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion at Huawei Europe celebrated the achievements of Academy students while encouraging them to embrace their unlimited potential: “We teach you technical skills, digital skills, we talk about entrepreneurship and sustainability; but for me the most important outcome of this Academy is the power that you have found within yourselves. You can reach any goals you set your eyes on, you are already leaders. The female leadership era is here with us. At Huawei we are proud to champion women in tech. We are so proud to be able to help you make your dreams come true.”
Walter ZHANG, CEO of Huawei Croatia highlighted the commitment to continue supporting graduates on their paths to success: “At Huawei, we are operating in 170+ countries worldwide. Being open and collaborative allowed us to build a global network that keeps flourishing. I hope we can do the same with our Academy, and that our alumnae will continue to use the most valuable resources provided to promote diversity and equality in rural areas. This is not the end of our journey. Your skills are your power, keep on developing them and expanding them.”
“I am happy the organisers invited me to join this Academy”, said Dr. Violeta BULC, former EU Commissioner for Transport and former Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia. “When I heard that the European Leadership Academy opened the door for women who want to be involved in the development of rural areas, I was excited. Each one of you took a step and made a change in your life. It is important that you connect, create partnerships and friendships that last because together you will create opportunities.”
Paloma ABA GARROTE, Director of the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency said: “I can see all these women, so committed, so dedicated, to shaping a more inclusive, innovative and more resilient future for Europe. At the European Commission we are very much committed to equality and making Europe a gender-balanced continent.” She motivated students to “Go forward with courage, with confidence, with passion. The EU stands with you and I stand with you. Thanks for believing in a better Europe and for leading the way.”
Aysel KANDEMIR, Director-General of Communications, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Government of Turkey told students “Without communications, without Information and Communication Technology, you cannot develop any sector – health, transportation, or other. When women are empowered, the society is empowered. And when the society is empowered, the country is empowered.”
Ana BARJASIC, Board Member of the European Innovation Council (EIC) and Founder & CEO of Connectology emphasised the impact of initiatives that empower and equip talented women: “I think initiatives like the European Leadership Academy are really important. I salute you. It’s key to provide these educational programmes, role models and success stories.”
Member of the European Parliament Katarína ROTH NEVEĎALOVÁ concurred, stating “I would like to thank the organisers for inviting me again to speak at this Academy. When I was younger, these kinds of events were not common, so it’s an important step that big companies like Huawei are organising these programmes. When I was a student 20 years ago, I couldn’t imagine having an opportunity such as this.”
Danijela BISTRIČKI-MOROVIĆ, Chief Technology Officer and Board Member of Telemach Hrvatska highlighted the EU’s commitment to equitable digital access: “The EU continues to foster development in connectivity, especially in rural areas. “The EU initiative for a Digital Decade until 2030 plans for every household to be connected with gigabyte speed and have 5G networks. By starting with small investments, we are contributing to developing rural areas.”
ELA alumnae are drawn from all backgrounds and study disciplines, from STEM to humanities. The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation 2024 Awards Ceremony acknowledged the following participants for making an outstanding contribution to the programme:
- Europe’s Rural Leader (winner of the edition): Auguste Vykertaitė, Lithuania
- Rural Tech Visionary: Petra Toneva, Bulgaria
- Community Impact: Karolina Kovacs, Hungary
- Heritage Conservation Pioneer: Eleni Phyla, Cyprus
- Problem-Solver: Cristina Pereira, Portugal
- Rural Innovation Star: Denisa Rohunova, Czechia
- Rural Connectivity Champion: Thora Kristin Bergsdottir, Iceland
- Empowerment Star: Elona Bejo, Albania
- Sustainability Pioneer: Tamara Teodorovic, Bosnia and Herzegovina
These visionary women truly impressed the faculty with their passion, drive, and leadership potential. They will stay connected and support each other through ELA’s thriving alumnae network, which will offer opportunities for them to get involved in exciting initiatives and help them work towards their goals.
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Press contact:
Aibing GUO, +32-478791859, guoaibing1@huawei.com