Empowering Women on a Global Stage: Highlights from Fortune's Summit in Riyadh

The city of Riyadh served as a vibrant backdrop to the Fortune Most Powerful Women International Summit, taking place on May 20-21, 2025. This remarkable event, featuring over 40 influential speakers, showcased the progressive strides women are making across various sectors worldwide. Leaders from 35 countries gathered at The St. Regis Riyadh to discuss and celebrate women's pivotal roles in leadership and policymaking.

Among the distinguished guests was the Rt. Hon. Baroness Theresa May, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, who set the stage for impactful discussions. Her address on the complexities of global trade, multilateralism, and the race toward sustainable economies highlighted crucial global challenges. Speaking candidly on navigating the intricate landscapes of globalization, May emphasized the urgency for innovative leadership in these turbulent times, prompting dialogue around the significance of a greener economy.

The summit also spotlighted key figures in the realm of public service. Speakers like Ambassador Haifa Al Jedea, the Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the European Union, and H.E. Yuriko Koike, the Governor of Tokyo, Japan, shared their experiences and insights on how women in leadership positions are redefining governance and creating inclusive policy structures. Their conversations reinforced the necessity of fostering environments that nurture trust and collaborative problem-solving among diverse communities.

Industry titans from Fortune 500 and Global 500 companies also participated, bringing practical perspectives on innovation and market dynamics. Notable speakers included Julie Sweet, CEO of Accenture; Shamina Singh, President of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth; and Leah Cotterill, CEO of Cigna Healthcare. These leaders discussed strategic responses to shifts in global markets while shedding light on the unique opportunities afforded by the evolving landscape of technology and sustainability.

Moreover, the summit featured conversations beyond traditional business roles. Among the highlights were voices of women from various sectors, including Zam Zam Al Hammadi and Hattan AlSaif, both professional fighters in the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Their participation brought an inspiring perspective on determination and achievement, reminding attendees that empowerment transcends industry boundaries.

The agenda was not only filled with discussions but illustrated a commitment to collective progress and resilience. With panel sessions and discussions focusing on themes such as innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, the summit provided a platform for sharing best practices and visionary ideas.

In this hour of pivotal change across the globe, gatherings like Fortune's Most Powerful Women International Summit remind us of the power of collaboration and visionary leadership. It showcased how women are not only participating in but also driving change in every sector, creating pathways and opportunities for future generations of leaders.

For a deeper insight into the discussions and agenda of the summit, interested readers are encouraged to explore the event’s website. As we look forward to the future, the narratives emerging from this summit will undoubtedly continue to resonate, inspiring further dialogue and action in the realms of leadership and gender equality around the world.

Visitors looking for updates on future events and discussions in women leadership can remain engaged through Fortune's media platforms, which continue to serve as a vital resource for those committed to advancing business and fostering inclusivity.