Indonesian Women Forge Leadership Skills in 'CEO for a Day' Program
The forum commemorates International Youth Day and calls for greater investment in young women's leadership.
Sixteen young women from throughout Indonesia gathered with female CEOs, senior business executives, government officials, and United Nations agency heads at the conclusion of the CEO for a Day Indonesia: Women Shaping Tomorrow program. Jointly organized by the United Nations in Indonesia, the AmCham Indonesia Women Network, and the UN Global Compact Network Indonesia, this initiative aimed to empower young women through mentorship and leadership opportunities.
The event took place on International Youth Day and highlighted the importance of nurturing female leadership to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gita Sabharwal, UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia, emphasized the role of women leaders in driving inclusion, equality, and sustainable development during her opening remarks. She noted that bringing together generations of women leaders could help shape a more equitable future for Indonesia.
The participants were carefully chosen based on their leadership potential, motivation, and dedication to making a positive impact. They were paired with experienced women leaders from various sectors for a day of shadowing and learning. One participant, 24-year-old Dhea Umi Amalia, stressed that background should not limit one's potential. She encouraged first-generation women to dream big, seek mentors, and invest in their personal growth.
Donna Priadi, Managing Director of AmCham Indonesia, explained that the program provided young women with a realistic view of leadership. It highlighted the challenges, decision-making, and responsibilities that come with leadership roles. Priadi stressed that leadership cannot be learned solely through books; it requires real-world experience, curiosity, and the courage to ask questions.
The closing ceremony featured participant reflections, a leadership talk show, a recognition ceremony, and an interactive session where participants could ask questions directly to the women leaders. Y. W. Junardy, President of the UN Global Compact Network Indonesia, highlighted the private sector's role in supporting the next generation of women leaders.
He stressed that gender equality must be more than mere commitment; companies must create inclusive workplaces, strengthen women's leadership pipelines, offer meaningful mentorship, and ensure equal opportunities for advancement.
CEO for a Day Indonesia launched in June 2026, targeting young women aged 18-25 who had made significant contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals. Through this initiative, organizers aimed to inspire more organizations to invest in youth leadership and help achieve gender equality at all levels of leadership and decision-making.
Written by urgent.news from Tempo.co English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
