On March 17, AmCham China held the 2026 AmCham China Women’s Summit at the China World Hotel in Beijing. As a premier platform for cross-industry women’s empowerment, this year’s summit, themed “Leading Forward: Women Driving Growth, Innovation, and Impact,” brought together approximately 100 business leaders, industry experts, and professionals. Together, they explored the core value of women in business growth and innovation, contributing to more inclusive economic development.
The summit opened with remarks from AmCham China Chairman James Zimmerman, who highlighted the critical role of women in achieving organizational excellence and social progress.
Following the opening, Nadia Rasheed, Representative to China and Country Director for Mongolia at UNFPA, delivered the first keynote. Drawing on global trends and China’s experience, she highlighted the role of women’s leadership in advancing health rights, gender equality, and economic opportunity. She called for cross-sector collaboration to remove gender barriers, increase women’s labor force participation, and promote shared responsibilities to unlock women’s full potential.
Next, Frances Yu, Chairman & CEO of Amway China, delivered the second keynote. She noted that as AI advances, human-centered leadership is becoming increasingly important. The ability to unite people and build connections will become a core element of leadership. In this area, women leaders, with their unique strengths in empathy and collaboration, are well-positioned to play a crucial role in building strong teams and delivering long-term value.
The first panel focused on industry transformation driven by technologies such as AI. Panelists discussed opportunities and challenges for women and emphasized the importance of embracing innovation, developing strategic thinking, and committing to continuous learning. They also shared company practices to support women in tech and address gender bias.
After a tea break, Linda Wang, DVP & GM, Established Pharmaceuticals, China at Abbott, delivered the third keynote. She emphasized that women’s health is fundamental to personal well-being, family harmony, and broader social development. Addressing the health challenges women face at different life stages, she highlighted the importance of strengthening health education and awareness to help women better manage their own health. Wang also called for increased investment in women’s health research and improved access to medical services tailored to women.
Panelists in the second discussion explored organizational systems that support women’s growth. They discussed overcoming workplace stereotypes, building confidence, improving communication, and balancing work and life. The panelists also shared practical examples from their organizations, including building women’s support networks, refining job requirements, providing opportunities and support for high-potential talent, and reducing gender bias – all aimed at helping women fully realize their potential and achieve well-rounded development in the workplace.
Thank you to all our sponsors, partners, speakers, and participants for their contributions. We look forward to continued collaboration to advance women’s empowerment and support inclusive, sustainable growth.
