Bahrain | February 2026
Entrepreneurial Leadership: Building Scale and Global Market Opportunities
Conference Overview
The 18th Annual IWEC Conference concluded after four transformative days of connection and strategy in Manama, Bahrain. From February 8 through 11, 2026, leading women entrepreneurs, global executives, and investors gathered to explore the central theme: Entrepreneurial Leadership: Building Scale and Global Market Opportunities.
This gathering served as a catalyst for sustainable growth and offered attendees a vital platform to forge enduring partnerships across borders—connections that remain more important than ever as we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.
Dr. Ibukun Awosika, IWEC Chair
Reflecting on the impact of the week, Dr. Awosika emphasized the importance of our shared mission, stating that investing in women entrepreneurs is the most effective strategy for global economic prosperity and resilience.
Ms. Pooja Chandra Pama, Co-Vice Chair
Ms. Pama highlighted the deeply collaborative spirit of the event, remarking that the bonds formed in Bahrain have strengthened our global network, opening new doors for collaboration and mutual support that will last well beyond this conference.
Daily Recap
Day 1: A Warm Welcome
The experience began on Sunday, February 8 at the RAK Art Foundation. The Bahrain Group and IWEC Board greeted guests with a welcoming evening reception. A cultural presentation set a tone of unity and collaboration, allowing delegates to connect meaningfully before the formal sessions commenced.
Day 2: Strategy and Innovation
Monday featured a packed schedule at the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce. Sessions focused on catalyzing sustainable growth and investment opportunities presented by the Bahrain EDB. Notable moments included an opening keynote centered on resilient leadership.
Day 3: Recognition and Honors
On Tuesday, the conference moved to Exhibition World Bahrain, intertwining with the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum (WEIF). The evening featured the prestigious IWEC Award Ceremony and Dinner. We honored the profound dedication and achievements of 33 outstanding women entrepreneurs from 16 countries who are making significant impacts in their respective industries.
Day 4: Future Collaborations
The final day offered optional participation in the full WEIF agenda, fostering further, long-lasting collaboration between IWEC members and the UNIDO ITPO Bahrain network.
Acknowledgments
We extend our deepest gratitude to every attendee who traveled to Bahrain. Your presence contributed to a dynamic environment of shared learning, ambition, and global solidarity.
We extend special gratitude to our organizational partners, the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and UNIDO ITPO Bahrain. Your steadfast support created a remarkable environment for our delegation.
As a global network that believes in the power of enduring partnerships, the connections made in Manama will continue to drive future success and economic empowerment for women worldwide.
We continue to hold our partners and the people of Bahrain in our thoughts during these current times, standing together in our commitment to progress and unity. We look forward to seeing you at our next annual gathering.
© 2026 IWEC Conference Recap | Bahrain