Exploring Global Connections Through the Haiti Tech Summit, Nigeria Independence Day Celebration, and Women's Global Forum in Reykjavik
As Queens Deputy Borough President, I’ve had the honor of representing our community on global platforms, and this year has provided some transformative opportunities. From attending the Haiti Tech Summit in New York City to celebrating Nigeria’s Independence Day and speaking at the Women’s Global Forum in Reykjavik, Iceland, these experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of international collaboration and the importance of global partnerships for meaningful change.
Haiti Tech Summit: Championing Innovation for Economic Growth
Speaking at the Haiti Tech Summit in NYC this March highlighted the critical role of technology and innovation in developing resilient, future-ready economies. The summit brought together entrepreneurs, changemakers, and thought leaders focused on fostering tech-driven solutions for Haiti and other emerging markets. The event emphasized the importance of digital empowerment for underrepresented communities, enabling them to access the tools and resources needed to scale and succeed. It also highlighted the immense value of cross-cultural dialogue in technology, providing a platform for global collaboration that transcends borders.
Nigeria Independence Day in NYC: Celebrating Legacy and Building the Future
Representing Queens at the Nigeria Independence Day celebration was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the borough’s rich diversity and our global connections. The event not only celebrated Nigeria’s 64 years of independence but also served as a reminder of the importance of cultural unity in a world that often feels divided. Celebrating Nigerian heritage and honoring the contributions of Nigerians worldwide reinforced the power of mutual support and solidarity among Black and Brown communities. These connections are essential to building a global network of support that empowers communities everywhere.
Women’s Global Forum in Reykjavik: Advancing Gender Pay Equity
Speaking at the Women’s Global Forum in Reykjavik, Iceland, was an inspiring moment in my journey to advocate for gender equality. The forum united women from around the world to discuss the urgent need for gender pay equity. The experience underscored the importance of dismantling structural inequalities in the workplace and advocating for inclusive economic systems. The stories shared by women from diverse backgrounds highlighted the need for global efforts to create systems that fairly value women's work. Achieving gender pay equity is not just a moral imperative—it’s essential for building inclusive and prosperous societies.
Scaling Global Solutions for Lasting Change
In each of these events, I saw firsthand how viewing our local challenges through a global lens can lead to impactful, sustainable solutions. Whether addressing economic disparities, improving access to resources, or driving innovation, these issues transcend borders. By fostering global partnerships, we align local efforts with international movements, amplifying our collective impact.
This is the essence of globalization: leveraging diverse perspectives to create scalable, sustainable solutions. When we adopt a global mindset, we set the stage for lasting change that benefits not only our own communities but the world at large. Let’s continue to expand our horizons, champion global opportunities, and tap into the collective power of an interconnected world to achieve the most transformative outcomes.
