Imagine a region where women, despite their talents and ambitions, still face towering barriers to leadership roles in business and society—Latin America, a place of vibrant culture yet persistent gender inequity, stands as the backdrop for a transformative event. In this landscape, a groundbreaking summit unfolded in Costa Rica, drawing 200 women from nine countries to challenge the status quo. Hosted by INCAE’s Center for Inclusive and Sustainable Leadership, the Multigeneration Upskilling Women on the Move Summit became a beacon of hope and action. This two-day conference united executives, businesswomen, and students in a powerful dialogue, spotlighting Costa Rica as a pivotal hub for female empowerment in the region.
A Platform for Change: Setting the Stage in Costa Rica
The summit, part of an intensive three-month program, aimed to equip women with the tools to lead in a rapidly evolving world. With a focus on critical issues like sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity, the event created a dynamic space for sharing knowledge and strategies. Participants ranged from seasoned corporate leaders to young International Baccalaureate students, fostering a rare multigenerational exchange of ideas and experiences.
Costa Rica’s role as host was no coincidence; the nation has long been recognized for progressive policies and a commitment to social development. By providing the backdrop for this landmark gathering, the country reinforced its position as a catalyst for regional transformation. The stage was set for two days of inspiration, learning, and collaboration that promised to reshape perspectives on female leadership.
Day One: Corporate Insights and Real-World Lessons
The first day of the summit zeroed in on corporate experiences, featuring influential speakers who shared their journeys and visions. Kiki del Valle from Mastercard captivated the audience with insights on innovation in financial services, illustrating how technology can open doors for women in leadership. Meanwhile, Laura Moreno of BAC Credomatic emphasized the undeniable link between gender equity and sustainable development, urging attendees to champion inclusivity in their workplaces.
Another highlight was Adriana Echandi of Morpho Travel Experience, whose stirring message about courage and authenticity resonated deeply with the crowd. Her call to embrace bold leadership during times of change struck a chord, encouraging participants to step beyond traditional boundaries. These talks provided a foundation of real-world wisdom, setting a powerful tone for the event.
A unique component of the day was a field visit to Hacienda Doka, a renowned name in Costa Rica’s coffee industry. Attendees witnessed firsthand how sustainable practices can harmonize tradition with modern demands, offering a tangible example of balancing profit and purpose. This excursion grounded the day’s discussions in practical application, leaving a lasting impression on all involved.
Day Two: Forward-Thinking Dialogues and Practical Skills
The second day shifted gears toward academic and future-focused themes, opening with a compelling lecture by Elena Fumagalli of INCAE. Her exploration of shared wisdom and leadership underscored the summit’s innovative approach to breaking barriers for women in business. The emphasis on multigenerational learning highlighted how diverse perspectives can drive meaningful progress.
Panel discussions tackled pressing topics such as neurodiversity, the influence of Generation Z in workplaces, digital transformation, and the rise of artificial intelligence. These conversations brought together experts to debate how women can navigate and lead in fast-changing industries, stressing adaptability as a core skill. The depth of these exchanges offered attendees fresh angles on modern challenges and opportunities.
Hands-on learning took center stage with masterclasses covering personal branding, productivity, and even cutting-edge subjects like quantum computing. These sessions equipped participants with actionable tools to enhance their professional growth. The day concluded with Dianne Medrano of Centenario Internacional inspiring the audience to lead authentically, blending personal values with societal impact in a profound closing message.
Multigenerational Inclusion: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
A standout feature of the summit was its commitment to inclusivity across generations, with 180 participants including young students on full scholarships. This deliberate mix ensured that the voices of emerging leaders were heard alongside those of established professionals. The design of the program reflected a deep understanding of mentorship’s value in nurturing talent for the future.
By integrating diverse age groups, the event created a rich tapestry of insights, where seasoned expertise met youthful innovation. This approach not only bridged generational gaps but also built a pipeline of female leaders ready to tackle Latin America’s unique challenges. The focus on inclusion sent a clear message: leadership development must be a collective, cross-generational effort.
Reflecting on a Milestone: The Path Ahead
Looking back, the Women on the Move Summit in Costa Rica marked a historic moment for female empowerment in Latin America, weaving together corporate know-how, academic thought, and hands-on training. It ignited conversations that challenged norms and inspired action among a diverse group of women. The event’s impact rippled through the region, highlighting the potential for change when women unite with purpose.
Moving forward, the momentum from this gathering must translate into concrete steps—organizations should prioritize gender equity in hiring and promotions, while policymakers can support initiatives that amplify women’s voices in business. Mentorship programs, inspired by the summit’s multigenerational model, could further sustain this progress from 2025 to 2027 and beyond. Ultimately, the legacy of this event lies in empowering women to not only participate but to lead, ensuring that Latin America’s future is shaped by inclusive and visionary leadership.
