“Breaking Barriers & Overcoming Challenges”

On Friday, 7 March 2025, the Delegation of the European Union to Azerbaijan, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium in Azerbaijan, and the Young European Ambassadors (YEAs), organised the “Breaking Barriers & Overcoming Challenges” event within a new campaign to mark the International Women’s Day under the slogan “GÜCLÜ QADIN, GÜCLÜ CƏMİYYƏT” (Strong Women, Strong Society). The campaign aims to raise awareness about gender equality and international progress towards gender parity.

Set in Kashalata Cafe—a socially inclusive space employing individuals with disabilities, this was a dynamic event celebrating the resilience, leadership, and impact of women in diplomacy, STEM, and the arts. The event provided an inspiring and empowering atmosphere for a meaningful dialogue between diplomatic community and Azerbaijani youth. Through an informative panel discussion, distinguished female leaders, including diplomats, industry experts, and artists, shared their experiences in overcoming challenges, breaking stereotypes, and shaping a more inclusive future. Among the speakers: Tinneke Everaert, Deputy Ambassador, Embassy of Belgium in Baku; Dr. Katarzyna Piasecka, First Secretary, Embassy of Poland in Baku; Shahla Mammadova, Head of Center of Excellence at Pasha Bank, Co-founder of
“Femmes Digitalis”; Sitara Ibrahimbeyli, Artist, Co-founder of the “Varyox” platform.

In his welcome speech, H.E. Mr. Peter Michalko, the EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan, stated: “The European Union has long been a champion of gender equality and women’s empowerment. We believe that when women have equal access to opportunities, education, and leadership roles, societies become stronger, more prosperous, innovative, and resilient.” 

With a diverse audience of young people, this event created cross-sector exchanges, inspired the next generation, and reinforced the importance of representation and inclusivity.

Key themes discussed at the event included:

Women in Diplomacy – Leadership, representation, and driving change in international relations.

Women in STEM – Innovation, inclusivity, and breaking barriers in tech and science.

Women in the Arts – Creative expression, challenges, and impact of women in the cultural sector.

With this event, the organisers celebrated women’s impact, inspired meaningful discussions, and showcased their role in creating a more inclusive and positive future.