In Delhi, on February 26, H.E. Euphrasie Kouassi Yao, Former Minister of Cote D’Ivoire, and G100 Global Chair for First Ladies Outreach met with the Hon’ble Smriti Irani, Former Minister of Women and Child Development. They discussed approaches to bridging the gender gaps, and continuation of their collaboration, especially at the upcoming UN CSW events. The day concluded with G100 Awards and gala dinner hosted by the Ambassador of Côte d’Ivoire, H.E. Mr. Eric Camille N’Dry. The event was attended by diplomats, dignitaries, and influential women leaders.

On March 3, H.E. Euphrasie led three key meetings in New Delhi with: 

In Ranchi, meetings were held on February 27 and 28. A Global Leaders Lunch was hosted by Jharkand Rai University at the Radisson, welcoming Dr. Epsy Campbell, former Vice President of Costa Rica and G100 Global Chair for the wing of International Affairs, along Ms. Euphrasie Kouassi Yao, and Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai, Founder, G100 Club of Global Women Leaders. 

The event saw participation from prominent women leaders, including politicians, social workers, and entrepreneurs. They shared their thoughts and experiences, highlighting the importance of women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and social change. Smt. Meera Munda, a prominent figure in Jharkhand politics and supporter of tribal welfare, women’s empowerment, and sustainable evolution, and Dr. Neera Yadav, ex-education minister, Government of Jharkhand, were also present to advocate for equity and encourage women’s participation and leadership in all walks of life. 

Many recognised leaders also attended the program, including Ragini Singh, MLA from the Jharia constituency; Purnima Mahato, a renowned Indian archery coach and former archer; Aruna Tirkey, Founder and Managing Director of Ajam Emba Private Limited, a pioneering initiative committed to reviving and mainstreaming Jharkhand’s rich indigenous food culture; Usha Jalan, National Vice President, Ekal Abhiyan; Dr. Mini Sharan, Director of Sharan Path Lab; Sarita Pandey, Chairperson & Director of Bhimbirsa Immense, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Women’s Wing at PHDCCI, Ranchi, and Laghu Udyog Bharti; Sangeeta Sharma, Gold medalist in Air Pistol Shooting at the state level; and Manita Gupta, an entrepreneur who owns a retail garment business with the objective of empowering underserved rural women and strengthening their financial condition. 

Key discussion topics included promoting tribal women’s economic empowerment, increasing women’s participation in business and market-based systems, and supporting health, sports, and indigenous art, culture, and products. The leaders’ insights emphasised that women worldwide are committed to shaping their future in a way that drives societal progress as well, placing women’s leadership and women-led development at the heart of inclusive economic growth. A key takeaway was also the incredible importance of having support and solidarity among women, toward preventing burnout and avoiding overwhelm, empowering one’s energy and endurance. 

Addressing the gathering, H.E. Dr. Epsy Campbell said that women across the world are connected through their challenges and therefore, need to find solutions collectively. Echoing the same, and giving a clarion call to action, H.E. Euphrasie Kouassi Yao, gave a stirring slogan: “The Time is right, The Time is Now,” which was received with much enthusiasm by all present. Dr. Harbeen Arora Rai elaborated that the G100 platform brings together women leaders from across the world in all walks of life, toward promoting global solidarity for gender equality. She added that women have immense innate power, and indeed, when women come together to help and support one another, all can tap into their greater inner strength to overcome challenges and rise above. 

Later, Ms. Euphrasie Kouassi Yao called upon Shri Hemant Soren, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Jharkhand, to discuss ongoing women’s empowerment initiatives and their amplification through global networks.

On February 28, 2025, the G100 women delegates attended the 5th Convocation Ceremony of Jharkhand Rai University, where three G100 Global Chairs were awarded Honorary Doctorates (Honoris Causa) for their excellence in their respective fields. H.E. Dr. Epsy Campbell, in her acceptance remarks, congratulated the graduates and stated, “I’m here because of my journey with people who believe in possibilities to build together a better world. Between us, women and men, with equal rights, we need to build a new world, working without borders, by being a global tribe.” H.E. Euphrasie Kouassi Yao, in her acceptance speech, appreciated Jharkhand Rai University’s efforts to ensure quality education for all in the state. Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Vice-Chairperson of Kinetic Engineering Limited, in her acceptance remarks, expressed her passion for working towards green energy, training and employing women in the energy sector, and creating a safer, greener world for future generations. After the convocation, the dignitaries enjoyed a traditional Indian Thali Lunch. The international guests also then spent a day in Rajasthan at the picturesque Six Senses Fort Barwara, immersing themselves in India’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

Overall, the meetings emphasised the need for sustained efforts to promote gender equality and empowerment, and for women leaders to continue working together to drive positive change. The various G100 meetings worldwide continue to enable these objectives through high-level meetings with policymakers and decision-makers, along with partnerships with a range of institutions, toward finding solutions collaboratively to address common challenges, and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.

We are most grateful to Dr. Savita Sengar, former Vice Chancellor, and now Chancellor of Jharkhand Rai University, as also G100 Global Chair for the wing of Universities & Thought Leadership for her utmost support, gracious care and unwavering leadership. We are also deeply thankful to the entire team at the university for their impeccable organisation and stellar spirit of service. Truly, together we can. 

Convenor: 

Dr. Savita Sengar

Chancellor, Jharkhand Rai University, Ranchi, India

G100 Global Chair Universities & Thought Leadership Wing