Pictures by Daniel Leal-Olivas for Trust Women Conference, Thomson Reuters Foundation. 2015

Photo: Thomson Reuters Foundation

I just returned home from the Trust Women Conference at the Landmark Hotel in London, organised by the Thomson Reuters Foundation. It was a conference quite unlike any other event I’ve ever been a part of. The theme: Empower women worldwide and fight modern-day slavery. No small feat, I dare say.

Since my work as event facilitator and speaker in the world of international business and finance is usually (for now) dominated by male presence, it was a hugely rewarding experience to spend two days surrounded by women from all walks of life, age and culture, every single one of extraordinary caliber in her respective profession or field of interest. There also were several men of equal caliber whom I admire for their courage. It takes guts to step into the den of the lioness.

Pictures by Daniel Leal-Olivas for Trust Women Conference, Thomson Reuters Foundation. 2015

Photo: Thomson Reuters Foundation

As I sat down to reflect and digest the insights and emotions of the past days, the words below flowed from my fingertips. They fall short of capturing the depth and magnitude of all that I observed and learned. I know this one will be with me for a long time and I’m deeply grateful that I was part of it.

An investment banker speaking openly about his spiritual practice.
A young woman finding the courage to give voice to her experience as victim of sex-traffickers.
Her truth and her tears witnessed in the respectful silence held by 600 people.
A graceful queen celebrating achievements of the next generation.
A formidable European politician with African headgear.
A Jedi Master disguised as a French pixie.
A blessing from the pope.
Digital tools, social media and postcards as weapons of benevolent transformation.
Business leaders, fashion experts and data wizards joining forces to clean the global supply chain from slavery.
A Mother calling time on extremism.
Lawyers joining brains, hands and hearts to step in where outdated legal systems and careless enforcement fall short of protecting the vulnerable ones.
A geophysicist as unlikely protector of a traumatized community.
Women and men from all 5 continents.
All determined to be agents of change.
All determined to take action for the wellbeing of women and men everywhere, regardless of culture, religion or colour.
Many coming with questions, some finding answers, some receiving healing.
Friendships being renewed, alliances forged, inspirations exchanged.
Seeds being planted, ideas raised, intentions set.
In a cauldron filled with strength and compassion, with beauty and wisdom, with integrity …..and also sweetness.
Putting the rule of law behind women’s rights
Is so much more than just a business case.

In honour and appreciation of the Trust Women Conference 2015

Judith, 20 November 2015

 
To find out more about the conference and its initiatives please go to:
Twitter: @trustwomenconf #TWC15
To support the actions proposed please go to to:
Pictures by Daniel Leal-Olivas for Trust Women Conference, Thomson Reuters Foundation. 2015

Photo: Thomson Reuters Foundation