The Taiwan Women on Boards Association and EY jointly hosted the 2025 Hard Talk, Soft Power, Bold Future Forum on August 27, attracting nearly 300 female directors, CEOs, and professional managers from publicly listed companies across Taiwan. The event focuse…
Why it matters
- The forum emphasizes the growing role of women in leadership positions within Taiwan’s corporate sector.
- It serves as a platform for networking and sharing insights among high-level female professionals.
- The event highlights the ongoing need for diversity in boardrooms and executive suites across industries.
On August 27, the Taiwan Women on Boards Association, in collaboration with EY, successfully hosted the 2025 Hard Talk, Soft Power, Bold Future Forum. The event drew an impressive crowd of almost 300 women, including directors, CEOs, and senior managers from publicly traded companies throughout Taiwan. This significant gathering not only showcased the increasing visibility of women in leadership roles but also served as a crucial opportunity for dialogue and collaboration among some of the nation’s top female executives.
The forum’s theme, “Hard Talk, Soft Power, Bold Future,” encapsulated the dual approach necessary for women in leadership to excel in their roles. The discussions centered around the importance of effective communication and influence, as well as strategic decision-making that fosters growth and innovation within their respective organizations.
Keynote speakers at the event included prominent figures from various sectors who shared their personal experiences and insights on navigating the challenges of leadership in a traditionally male-dominated environment. Their stories resonated deeply with attendees, sparking conversations about the unique hurdles women face and the strategies they employ to overcome them.
In workshops and panel discussions, participants explored a range of topics, from corporate governance and ethical leadership to the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in advancing women's careers. Industry experts emphasized that fostering a diverse leadership team is not just a moral imperative but also a business necessity. Research consistently shows that companies with diverse boards and executive teams perform better financially and are more innovative.
The forum also highlighted the critical role of mentorship in empowering the next generation of female leaders. Several seasoned professionals shared their mentorship journeys, stressing the importance of supporting younger women in their career development. The emphasis was placed on creating a culture of inclusivity where women can thrive and contribute to their organizations’ success.
Networking was a significant aspect of the event, allowing attendees to connect with peers and potential collaborators. Many participants left with new contacts and ideas for partnerships that could enhance their businesses and initiatives. The exchange of ideas and experiences created a vibrant atmosphere that encouraged collaboration and innovation.
Furthermore, the forum aimed to address the systemic barriers that still exist within corporate structures, which often hinder women’s progress. Discussions included actionable strategies to promote gender equity in hiring practices, leadership training, and organizational culture. The consensus among attendees was clear: while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in achieving true equality in the corporate landscape.
As the forum concluded, participants expressed a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to championing women's leadership. Many attendees voiced their determination to take the insights gained from the event back to their organizations and advocate for change.
The success of the 2025 Hard Talk, Soft Power, Bold Future Forum underscores the importance of such initiatives in fostering a more inclusive business environment. As Taiwan continues to advance in the global marketplace, the contributions of women in leadership will be vital in shaping a sustainable and equitable future for all. The event not only celebrated the achievements of women in business but also ignited a collective movement toward greater representation and empowerment.
Looking ahead, the Taiwan Women on Boards Association and EY are expected to continue their collaboration, organizing future events aimed at further enhancing the role of women in leadership across the region. The momentum generated by this forum is a testament to the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the economy and their vital role in driving corporate success.
