On March 25, 2026, OWIT International hosted a dynamic International Women’s Day (IWD) webinar that united voices from across Africa, Europe, North America, and Central America. Nearly 50 participants joined the session, which featured seven distinguished panelists: Blessing Irabor-Oza, Dr. Temitope Mayegum, Jennie Sammur, Noreen Burroughes Cesareo, Patricia Kenneth, Salome, and Sandra Ejang. Together, they explored how women entrepreneurs and professionals are shaping the future of global trade through empowerment, innovation, and collaboration.
Empowering Women in Global Trade
The panel emphasized that women-led enterprises are increasingly driving international commerce.
- Blessing Irabor-Oza highlighted the transformative power of mentorship and peer networks, noting that “when women share knowledge across borders, they multiply opportunities for growth.”
- Temitope Mayegum underscored the importance of education and access to trade information as critical enablers for women entrepreneurs to thrive globally.
Digital Transformation as a Catalyst
Technology emerged as a central theme, enabling women-owned businesses to scale and access new markets.
- Jennie Sammur stressed that “digital literacy is no longer optional—it’s the passport to global competitiveness.”
- Sandra Ejang added that digital platforms are helping women connect with buyers and partners beyond their local economies, breaking geographical barriers.
Policy and Advocacy for Inclusion
The conversation also addressed the need for supportive trade policies and gender-responsive frameworks.
- Patricia Kenneth emphasized advocacy as a tool to ensure women’s voices are heard in trade policy discussions.
- Noreen Burroughes Cesareo encouraged collaboration between public and private sectors to build inclusive trade ecosystems that benefit women entrepreneurs.
Building Stronger OWIT Networks
The event reaffirmed OWIT’s mission to connect women globally through education, networking, and advocacy.
- Salome and Sandra Ejang reflected on the power of OWIT chapters to foster mentorship and cross-regional partnerships.
- Participants from multiple continents shared success stories, reinforcing the value of belonging to a global community of women in trade.
Closing Reflection
The webinar concluded with a collective call to action: to continue breaking barriers, leveraging technology, and strengthening networks that empower women in international trade. More than a celebration of achievements, the event was a testament to the shared commitment of OWIT members worldwide to build a more inclusive global economy.
I recommend that you learn from others in a competent, international association which helps develop your vision and gain the skills you need to achieve your goal. At OWIT International, I have learnt practical thought leadership. Join OWIT events on: www.owit.org for insights and strategies on networking.
Author: Nobuntu Pearl Nxumalo-Ngwenya, is the VP Secretary of OWIT International, and a Business Informatician and Technologist Specialist.