The idea for the program aimed at Ukrainian women leaders originated in the first months of the full-scale invasion, coinciding with the launch of the international educational project ReinforceUA. In this project, leading contemporary thinkers met with Ukrainian audiences and shared their knowledge for free. An important component of this initiative was fundraising to support the Women Leadership Program, which would not have been possible without these donations.
The role of women in society is undeniably expanding, and this trend is evident on a global scale. In Ukraine, this evolution is further propelled by the ongoing conflict. It's clear that women will assume increasingly significant roles in business, government, and the public sector. Our program is uniquely positioned to address both Ukrainian realities and incorporate the finest international practices. We firmly believe that our training will serve as a catalyst and a source of support for our participants during these challenging times," said MIM President Iryna Tykhomyrova during the opening ceremony of the Women Leadership Program.
Iryna Venediktova, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Swiss Confederation and the Principality of Liechtenstein, also participated in the opening ceremony. She wished the participants to find inspiration during the program, become even more powerful leaders, gain useful knowledge, and form new friendships for consultation and idea-sharing.
Knut Haanaes, Professor of Strategy at IMD and holder of the Lundin Chair of Sustainable Development, which co-funds the project, promised to ensure the program is truly useful and relevant to Ukrainian students.
The Bohdan Hawrylyshyn Family Foundation is also involved in the program's implementation. Christine Hawrylyshyn-Batrukh, President of the BHFF and member of the Lundin Sustainability Chair Advisory Board, congratulated the newly formed women's community on the start of their studies: “In 1989, my father founded the MIM Business School, with IMD as a partner at the time. The Lundin Sustainability Chair has contributed to the development of MIM and continues to support responsible leadership. I have read each of your applications, CVs, and motivation letters and was incredibly impressed. Today, we often talk about multitasking, but you are exceptionally efficient in this regard, which is both impressive and inspiring.”
Additionally, Stuart Crainer, the founder of the Thinkers50 ranking, recorded a video message welcoming the participants. He announced that the program will include exclusive lectures from Thinkers50 laureates, delivered specifically for the program's attendees.