Inside the Women’s CEO Summit 2025

This April, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Women’s CEO Summit 2025 in Belgrade—a powerful gathering of women leaders, diplomats, executives, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of Serbia and the region. The summit, organized by Color Media Communications, was hosted at the beautiful Madlena Art Palace and sponsored by some of the biggest names in business: Ploom Srbija, A1 Srbija, and FitPass. The experience left me inspired, hopeful, and reminded of the power of advocacy and connection.

I was invited to the summit as the plus one of the General Manager of JTI Serbia, whom I met at the Kopaonik Business Forum. We connected during a follow-up call, and she generously extended an invitation for me to attend the summit with her. That’s the magic of being open to new connections—when women support each other, amazing doors open.

The theme of this year’s summit focused on the role of women in leadership, particularly in diplomacy, business, entrepreneurship, and politics. It offered a much-needed spotlight on the increasing visibility and voice of women at the highest levels of decision-making in Serbia and across the Balkans. Though this was my first time attending the Women’s CEO Summit, it certainly won’t be my last.

The event featured three insightful panels. The first, "The Power of Diplomacy and Women at the Top", brought together female ambassadors and diplomats who discussed the challenges and triumphs of representing their countries in a shifting global landscape. It was incredible to hear from women who balance protocol, policy, and presence with elegance and purpose.

The second panel, "Women in Business and Entrepreneurship", really hit home for me as a founder myself. Panelists discussed building companies, scaling operations, and navigating male-dominated industries. It was honest, direct, and full of valuable lessons for women at all stages of their careers.

The third panel was "Voices of Influence: Women in Media, PR, and Politics", which explored the intersection of communication and power. It reminded us of the critical role women play in shaping narratives—whether through media, public relations, or policy-making.

Beyond the panels, what truly made this summit memorable was the energy in the room. It wasn’t just about inspiration—it was about access. Access to conversations that matter. Access to women who are building, leading, and changing systems. And access to a growing community of professionals who care about elevating each other.

As an American expat and businesswoman based in Belgrade, I often navigate unique cultural and professional dynamics. Events like this help bridge the gap. I had the chance to network with an incredible range of women—from ambassadors and CEOs to creatives, consultants, and founders. There were women from Serbia, the region, and abroad—proof that Belgrade is increasingly becoming a hub for innovation, diplomacy, and collaboration.

In between panel discussions and networking breaks, I reconnected with familiar faces and met new ones who I’m excited to work with in the future. The conversations weren’t just surface-level—they were intentional. Women shared openly about challenges, gave actionable advice, and encouraged one another to keep going.

It was also refreshing to meet other expat women in senior positions—something I’ve long advocated for. We exchanged ideas, shared our visions, and even discussed future collaborations. From fashion and art to tech and real estate, women are making their mark in every industry in Serbia.

One personal takeaway: we need more of this. More summits. More spaces where women can be celebrated, challenged, and seen. More intentional community-building that crosses borders, backgrounds, and industries. This summit was a reminder that leadership doesn’t always look like titles and power—it looks like extending a hand, sharing your story, and lifting someone else up.

As I continue to grow my own business and build community in Serbia, I’m thankful for experiences like the Women’s CEO Summit. It’s not just about attending events—it’s about being in the right rooms, having the right conversations, and supporting the women who make those rooms possible.

To the organizers, panelists, and incredible women I met—thank you. Here’s to more connection, more collaboration, and more women leading the way.