Cyprus is rapidly emerging as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, and Unity Growth is at the forefront of this transformation. Known for its commitment to fostering a thriving business ecosystem, the organization runs initiatives that empower both startups and business leaders.
Beyond supporting early-stage ventures through Elevate Bootcamp, Unity Growth also champions diversity and leadership through the Women in Business & Beyond Conference—the largest women’s empowerment event in Cyprus.
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Taking place on 12th April 2025 at Carob Mill, Limassol, this full-day gathering is designed to inspire, educate, and connect professionals, entrepreneurs, and future leaders through engaging discussions, hands-on workshops, and invaluable networking opportunities.
Let’s see what the organizers have to say.
Q: What inspired the creation of the Women in Business and Beyond Conference, and what impact do you aim to achieve through this event?
A: The Women in Business and Beyond Conference was born out of a clear need: to create a dedicated space that actively supports, empowers, and elevates women within the Cypriot business community. We saw a growing demand for stronger connections and a platform where accomplished women could share their experiences and insights.
Our goal is to inspire action and foster growth. By highlighting the stories of successful women and their allies, we aim to equip attendees with practical knowledge, fresh perspectives, and renewed confidence in their journeys. Ultimately, we are committed to shaping a more inclusive and dynamic business environment in Cyprus—one where both current and future leaders can thrive and make a lasting impact.
Q: Women’s empowerment events are becoming more common worldwide. In your view, what makes Women in Business and Beyond stand out? How do you measure its real impact beyond just inspiring talks?
A: While women’s empowerment events are gaining global momentum, Women in Business and Beyond stands out for its tangible impact and growing influence within the Cypriot business landscape. The rapid expansion of the conference—from 150 attendees in its inaugural year (2024) to over 500 expected in 2025—underscores the strong demand for a dedicated space where women can connect, learn, and collaborate. More than just an inspirational gathering, this event fosters a dynamic local network, enabling women to find relatable role models and build meaningful professional relationships.
Beyond the energy of the event itself, we are committed to measuring its lasting influence. We actively gather post-event feedback to track how attendees apply the insights gained to their careers and businesses. Our long-term vision is to see a measurable increase in women holding leadership positions and a stronger representation of female voices within Cyprus’s business ecosystem—ensuring that the impact extends well beyond a single day.
Q: Many conferences focus on networking and empowerment, but systemic barriers for women in business and tech still exist. What concrete, actionable strategies does this event promote to help women break through these barriers?
A: While many conferences highlight networking and empowerment, Women in Business and Beyond goes a step further by actively addressing systemic barriers and providing actionable strategies for overcoming them. We understand that connection within a supportive environment is a key factor in dismantling these barriers, which is why our event is designed to foster meaningful networking—making it easier for women to collaborate and build powerful relationships.
Our program offers practical, skill-building workshops, such as those focused on launching innovative businesses, mastering Artificial Intelligence and Automation, and leveraging Neuro-Linguistic Programming, giving attendees tools for real-world success. Expert-led panels, including fundraising strategies and insights from women in technology, delve into the specifics of navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.
A particular highlight is our Technology & Innovation Stage, which directly addresses a pivotal sector for women’s advancement. By showcasing successful female entrepreneurs and leaders, we provide relatable role models and demonstrate clear pathways to breaking through obstacles. Ultimately, our goal is to equip women with the skills, connections, and confidence to create lasting change—both within their organizations and across the broader Cypriot business ecosystem.
Q: Studies show that women often struggle with self-promotion and visibility in professional settings. How does the conference tackle this challenge, and what advice do your speakers offer on building confidence and credibility?
A: At Women in Business and Beyond, we recognize that self-promotion and visibility are significant challenges for many women in professional environments. To tackle this, the conference provides a dedicated platform to showcase women’s achievements, ensuring they are seen and heard by a wider audience.
Our speakers openly share their personal stories—highlighting both their successes and the hurdles they’ve faced. This transparency fosters relatability and gives attendees a more authentic view of the journey to success.
In addition to personal stories, our speakers offer practical, actionable advice on how to build confidence and credibility. Attendees will learn how to confidently articulate their skills, effectively highlight their contributions, and leverage their networks to gain support. We also focus on overcoming self-doubt and embracing recognition, encouraging women to confidently step into the spotlight.
By creating an environment where accomplished women share their experiences and provide concrete guidance, the conference empowers attendees with the tools they need to increase their visibility, build lasting credibility, and elevate their professional presence.
Q: The conference promises enriching discussions and interactive workshops. What are some of the key topics and trends that will be covered this year?
A: This year’s Women in Business and Beyond conference promises to be a dynamic and insightful event, featuring discussions and workshops centered around several key topics and trends, including:
- Women in Business: Strategies for advancing in the corporate world, developing leadership skills, and overcoming challenges specific to women in business.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Exploring new business ideas, scaling startups, and cultivating a culture of innovation that drives growth.
- Leadership: Effective leadership practices, how to navigate organizational structures, and inspiring teams towards success.
Technology: A deep dive into emerging technologies, the role of women in tech, and how to leverage technological advancements for business success.
Personal Growth: Fostering personal development, building confidence, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. - Workplace Transformation: Adapting to the evolving work environment, promoting diversity and inclusion, and creating more equitable workplaces.
These topics will be explored through engaging discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable insights from leading experts and innovators, ensuring that attendees walk away with actionable knowledge and strategies to apply in their professional lives.
Q: Looking beyond this conference, what long-term changes need to happen in Cyprus’ business ecosystem to ensure that women don’t just participate but lead and shape industries? What role do men and corporate policies play in this shift?
A: Beyond this conference, several long-term shifts are essential to ensure that women in Cyprus not only participate but also lead and shape industries. First, there must be a sustained commitment to challenging traditional gender roles and promoting a culture that truly values diverse leadership. This includes actively highlighting and celebrating the achievements of female role models across various sectors, ensuring that their contributions are seen and recognized.
Men have a crucial role to play as active allies in this process. They must consciously use their influence to advocate for women’s advancement, challenge biased assumptions, and foster inclusive environments within their teams and organizations. Their visible support is key in normalizing and accelerating the acceptance of women in leadership positions.
Equally important are corporate policies that prioritize diversity and inclusion. Companies must implement practices that not only support women’s participation but also encourage their progression to leadership roles. This involves revisiting hiring practices, offering mentorship and sponsorship programs, and ensuring equal growth opportunities.
Ultimately, creating an inclusive business ecosystem in Cyprus requires a collective effort. As societal norms shift and men actively champion equality, the business landscape will evolve, enabling women to not only participate but also lead and shape the industries of the future.
