Albania is one of the few countries in the world with the largest number of female ministers in the government. Quotas are respected in parliament. But, what about other institutions and organizations?! And above all, what happens beyond quotas? According to INSTAT, only 25% of businesses in our country are run by women. They, mainly have micro-businesses (up to 4 employees).
But they are rarely found on the management boards of medium and large companies. Recognizing the potential of Albanian women, Women on Boards Albania was established to empower, lobby and engage Albanian woman, giving them rightful control in society.
The 2024 Launch Event was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the power of insight, inspiration, and empowerment. Women on Boards Albania (WOB-AL) gathered over 100 women entrepreneurs and leaders of important institutions in it’s first conference, held at Hotel Plazza, in Tirana.
Directed by the international expert Albana Vrioni, Women On Boards, aims to empower women, through their economic development and at the same time, the creation of a favorable environment. Today, the defined quotas have been met in some private or public institutions, but what is the panorama beyond the quotas? Is the potential of women being used to improve the economy and social conditions of the country? What should be done in this regard?!
All these were discussed at the official presentation conference of Women on Boards Albania, part of the Women on Boards Europe network.
According to Mrs. Vrioni, “The event was more than just a meeting; it was a testament to the power of insight, inspiration and empowerment. We express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who graced us with their presence, providing lively discussions, constructive questions and invaluable recommendations.”
In the discussion panel, experiences and perspectives were shared by: WOB-AL founder Albana Vrioni, Minister of Entrepreneurship and Business Climate, Delina Ibrahimaj, CEO of WOB Europe, Kristen Anderson, CEO of BKT Pay, Bilgen Alden, Director of Public Policy , Legal and External Affairs at Vodafone, Jonida Lauriid and the Managing Director of Lufthansa Industry Solutions, Albana Shkurta.
As they reflected on the myriad topics explored and insights shared, several key takeaways emerge:
Diversity goes beyond numbers; it’s about inclusive mindsets and progress for women in impactful roles.
Women supporting each other and building strategic networks drive gender diversity.
Sustainable Directorship competency is vital for organizational growth.
Balancing professional growth and personal fulfillment requires self-leadership.
Digital strategies counter exclusionary decision-making patterns.
Empowering women through digital platforms challenges stereotypes and positions them as influential trendsetters.
Digitalization opens doors for educational opportunities and global networking.
Mrs. Vrioni said, “At Women on Boards Albania, we champion #genderdiversity through education and connection. Over the next five years, we’re committed to preparing 100 C-level women for directorship and #executiveroles through cutting-edge programs.
With a focus on digitalization, our annual program ensures future leaders thrive in a tech-driven world, fostering a dynamic, #inclusive community. As we embark on our annual program, we remain dedicated to fostering education, insight, and mindset change. The 2024 Launch Event was just the beginning of our collective journey towards a more diverse and inclusive future”.
The 5 main pillars that Women on Boards focuses on are:
- Advocacy on gender issues
- Development of the competence of leaders
- Creating a stable pool of talent ready to operate at an international level as well
- Creating and nurturing a support network of peers and mentors
- Active involvement in transformative projects and studies, in line with strategic growth areas in the country.
The event was supported by Vrioni Consulting, with the objective of promoting gender diversity and inclusion, and partnered EWOB for sharing the experience created in paving the way. As WOB AL’s annual program has begun, our commitment is: promoting education, knowledge and changing mindsets. The Launch 2024 event was just the beginning of our collective journey towards a more diverse and inclusive future.
