History Made at the UN: Global Empowerment and Inclusion Summit 2025 Ignites Global Action from the Heart of Geneva and led by Wales
Geneva, Switzerland – Palais des Nations, June 2025 – The halls of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) have echoed with many calls for change—but none quite like this. The Global Empowerment and Inclusion Summit 2025, curated by visionary leader Bernie Davies, Founder of Mastering Diversity CIC and Patron of TechCeFaCos Group (ECOSOC Special Consultative Status since 2013), brought the world together in a symphony of unity, innovation, and action.
On 26 June 2025, changemakers from across the globe—youth leaders, sports icons, legal pioneers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and cultural ambassadors—gathered at the UN Palais des Nations for a summit that didn’t just discuss inclusion—it embodied it.
Opening with Purpose- Keynotes That Set the Tone
The day began with powerful welcome addresses from Mastering Diversity CIC Patrons, Edward Watts MBE DL and Janey Howell, Former High Sheriff of South Glamorgan. Their presence underscored the importance of intergenerational leadership and community-rooted wisdom in driving global change.
“The bringing together of like-minded, motivated people from all over the world under this banner is a great achievement and a step towards diversity and inclusion becoming mainstream,” said Janey Howell.
Voices of Impact and Influence
The opening ceremony, led by sporting legends Dr Donald Rukare (President, Commonwealth Sport), Steve Brown OLY, and Helen Phillips MBE (Regional VP, Commonwealth Games and President, Team Wales), was a masterclass in sports diplomacy and its power to bridge, heal, and lead.
“This experience bolstered my belief that when we are intentional, and we truly listen, change is not only possible—it’s inevitable,” said Helen Phillips MBE.
The momentum continued as leaders across sectors took the stage—setting a tone of urgency, unity, and global responsibility.
“The summit marked more than a first—it was a moment to pause, listen, and reimagine how we use law, leadership and collaboration to create a fairer, more inclusive world,” said Gwen Morgan-Evans, Partner at Hugh James and Legal Frameworks panellist.
Global Praise for a Groundbreaking Summit
“The level of excellence in organisation and delivery was extraordinary,” shared a spokesperson from the UNOG Office, who added, “One of our interns returned from your meeting extremely enthusiastic, saying it was one of the best sessions she has attended—excellent feedback all around. It’s always encouraging to see such a positive outcome, and I wanted to share this with you.”
That spirit of bold leadership carried into the themed plenary sessions, where renowned voices from sport, law, and entrepreneurship shared insights with urgency and conviction.
“This was a moment of reflection, responsibility, and renewed purpose,” said Michelle Cronin, Thompsons Solicitors.
“We go together—or not at all,” echoed Lisa Brunt, Crew Cymru and Focus Futures.
“It wasn’t just another global event—it was a movement, a call to action,” added Emma Waddingham, Legal News Wales and VP, Cardiff and District Law Society, who called the day “one of the most incredible of my life.”
From law to tech, education to human rights, every corner of the summit echoed the urgency of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
Youth Voice Led the Charge
A highlight of the day was the electrifying Youth Panel, facilitated by Kerrie Gemmill, CEO of Scouts Cymru. Rising leaders Camile Miteleji, Esha Karunaratne, Izzy Hooper, Josh Steer, Kobena Amissah, Molly Fenton BCAh, and Yasmin Li shattered expectations with bold, solutions-focused dialogue.
“The young panellists didn’t just speak—they led,” Kerrie reflected. “They reminded us that youth work isn’t about tokenism—it’s about shared power. And when youth lead, we all rise.”
Coinciding with Youth Work Week, the panel proved that intergenerational partnership is not a dream—it’s a necessity.
“The summit was a blueprint for action,” said Mike Scott, Ogi.
“Speaking on child trafficking at the UN felt like history in the making,” added Jan Iverson.
“To be part of such a landmark moment, where innovation met purpose on a global stage, was life-altering,” said Joy Macko, entrepreneur and speaker.
“The summit was a rare convergence of courage, compassion, and clarity,” said Dr Alison Edgar MBE, adding, “understanding diversity is now essential to world peace.”
Mastering Diversity: The Driving Force
At the helm was Bernie Davies—a woman whose leadership is part storm, part symphony. Recently honoured at 10 Downing Street and by the UK Ambassador in Spain, Bernie is recognised not only for her accolades but for her unshakeable commitment to building tables, not just taking seats.
“Bernie, you are a force with grace,” said Kyla Scott, Lighter Brighter Minds.
“A true inspiration who unites the unheard and empowers the underestimated.”
“This experience has been crazy,” added Molly Fenton BCAh, Co-Chair of the Youth Board. “Thank you, Bernie Davies for it all. Your messages, your keynote, your dedication—there are no words strong enough.”
A Wales-Led Global Movement
This was not just an international summit. This was a Wales-powered global charge, proving again that big change can begin in small nations with bold hearts.
From the powerful “Road to the UN” pre-summit event in Cardiff to Geneva’s global stage, this initiative continues to shape policy, influence institutions, and inspire communities worldwide.
What’s Next?
This summit was not a crescendo—it was an overture. Mastering Diversity CIC and TechCeFaCos Group are already working on follow-up actions with governments, NGOs, youth groups, and civil society.
“This wasn’t just about being heard,” said Laura Hughes. “It was about forging bonds, building futures, and turning shared stories into collective action.”
