OWIT’s International network just got larger with the addition of its newest chapter in the United Kingdom (www.owituk.org) . Marked with a high-energy virtual launch on June 23 and an impressive panel of high-level speakers, the event attracted a large turnout of global participants from the UK and representatives of OWIT chapters from other parts of the world. They included OWIT-Toronto President Helen Hemmingsen and VP International Susan Baka, as well as OWIT International’s President Camelia Mazard who welcomed UK into the OWIT fold.

Noreen Cesareo, OWIT UK’s President, called the launch a milestone event that was a year in the making but “well worth the effort”. “We are delighted to be supporting the launch of OWIT UK,” said guest speaker Chris Southworth, Secretary-General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), UK. “It's perfectly timed as we scale up trade initiatives, tackle inequalities, modernize the trading system and importantly build back better.” Another guest speaker was Ambassador Stephen DeBoer, Permanent Representative of Canada to the World Trade Organization in Geneva, who outlined Canada’s various initiatives to promote women and trade, which include introducing gender chapters in several free trade agreements. Others lauded Canada for our trailblazing efforts.

“Wow – what an event!” says Helen. “And it was great to see so many shout-outs to Canada.”

“I’m thrilled to see a UK chapter get off the ground…and with a truly impressive group of accomplished women at the helm who are so knowledgeable and passionate about trade,” adds Susan. “Our Toronto chapter looks forward to potential collaborations down the road.”