International Women’s Day Lunch 2024

Today, in recognition of International Women’s Day, AmCham Sweden partnered with IWIB (International Women in Business Network) and Eversheds Sutherland to host a lunch presentation, panel discussion, and mingle to take deep dive into the challenges and opportunities surrounding women's economic empowerment. 

The audience got an overview of the #EmpowerHer initiative, launched by the U.S. Commercial Service in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce to the EU and AmChams in Europe to promote and empower women’s advancement in international trade. 

Martin Andreasson, State Secretary to the Minister for Gender Equality and Deputy Minister for Employment Paulina Brandberg, adressed the audience and presented the Swedish government's views and efforts promote equality and female empowerment. 

Following this, we had the pleasure of listening to Sandra Stevestedt, CFO at IBM, Karin Järperud, Country Director at Amgen and Annika Norrman Nordell, Partner at Grant Thornton — all powerful examples of female leadership — speak about their experiences in the private sector and share best practices for female empowerment within business. 

Why does this matter? Because when we empower women, we empower entire economies. When women hold leadership roles and businesses thrive under their ownership, we all benefit. Studies consistently show that investing in women and girls yields enormous returns – driving innovation, competitiveness, and prosperity.

During the event, we heard firsthand examples of success alongside the undeniable challenges. But success stories must not be the exception; they must become the norm.

Thank you to Eversheds Sutherland for hosting us, all our speakers for sharing your insights, and all the attendees for joining the conversation!