vienna : the meeting point for a new era of leaders
Vienna 🇦🇹 is a city that stands for diversity and progress, and provides the perfect ground zero for a movement that will change the future of work.
A hub for innovation and the place where the female factor grew into what it is today, it's no wonder that Vienna is at the epicenter of this initiative.
redefining leadership: from vienna, all around the world.
why Vienna?
40%
of Austrian
businesses are
led by women
35 %
of Viennese startups were founded by women
#1
best place to be for female founders
*Startup Heatmap 2019
20
years of supporting female entrepreneurs
Vienna is a melting pot of over 180 nationalities,
a hub for culture and diplomacy,
and the business and geographical center of Europe.
With a thriving industry, a dynamic startup scene, and consistently high standard of life, it's the perfect starting point to redefine the future of work.
More than anything, Vienna values its people, supporting women and under-represented minorities on all levels, be it in politics, the private sector, or family life.
Setting new standards over and over again, Vienna is truly a city that redefines leadership at every step.
our favorite places in vienna
walk in the footsteps of...
Imagine a world without female-led innovations; it's likely you wouldn't be browsing this site.
Embark on a journey through Vienna to discover the extraordinary women who've made history. Their legacies, from inventive pioneers to bold artists, are interwoven with the city's essence, igniting inspiration across generations. Let's honor the fearless Viennese women whose contributions have profoundly shaped our world.
Bertha von Suttner, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
Discover Bertha von Suttner, the first female Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a vocal advocate for peace. Born into the Austrian aristocracy, von Suttner's passion for peace led her to write the influential novel "Lay Down Your Arms," which propelled the peace movement in Europe. Her tireless efforts not only earned her the Nobel Prize but also left a lasting legacy in Vienna and beyond, inspiring future generations to pursue peace and diplomacy.
Hedy Lamarr, actress & inventor
Meet Hedy Lamarr, a Vienna-born actress and inventor whose contributions went far beyond the silver screen. Lamarr, known as one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood, was also a brilliant inventor. Her work on frequency hopping technology during WWII laid the groundwork for modern Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth communications. Despite her fame as an actress, Lamarr's genius in invention showcases Vienna's long history of fostering talents that bridge both arts and sciences, emphasizing that innovation knows no gender bounds.
Maria Theresia
Another notable Viennese woman is Maria Theresia, who reigned as the only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions and was a key figure in the modernization of the Austrian Empire. Her reforms in education, administration, and civil rights laid the groundwork for the enlightened absolutism that would shape Europe. Maria Theresia's legacy is a testament to her visionary leadership, deeply impacting Vienna and beyond with her progressive policies that have endured through the centuries.
meet the leaders in Vienna
Meet the women in Vienna who are redefining leadership today, breaking new ground across sectors from technology to the arts. Their visionary approach is not just shaping the future of their industries but also inspiring a new generation of leaders in this historic city.
Sylvia Ionita, CFO waterdrop, 🇦🇹
Sylvia Ionita, as the CFO of waterdrop, plays a crucial role in steering one of Austria's fastest-growing e-commerce scaleups. Her financial leadership and strategic vision are vital in navigating the competitive landscape, driving waterdrop's mission to revolutionize hydration with a sustainable and innovative approach.
Silvia Kaupa-Götzl, Board Member
Österreichische Postbus AG, 🇦🇹
Silvia’s efforts focus on sustainability and innovation, significantly contributing to making Austria's public transport system more efficient and environmentally friendly.
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Stefanie Ahammer, Country Director Visa, 🇦🇹
Stefanie Ahammer, Visa Austria's Country Director, is at the forefront of transforming finance in Vienna, championing initiatives that make digital payments more accessible and inclusive, thereby shaping a more financially empowered future.
and it all comes together...
global leaders summit
co-hosted by the City of Vienna
📍 19th of September 2024, Vienna City Hall
a word from our co-hosts
The City of Vienna and the Vienna Business Agency are thrilled to host the global leaders summit, an initiative that underscores our commitment to fostering female leadership and promoting gender diversity in the business world. This event is a testament to Vienna's role as a progressive hub where women's leadership and innovation thrive, shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.