The Power of Women Through Diplomacy, Wellness, and Culture
by Rose Hong, columnist and contributor for Diplomatic Watch Magazine
Diplomatic Watch Magazine’s Women in Diplomacy Forum at the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Diplomacy extends far beyond treaties and official negotiations. At its heart, diplomacy is about building understanding, strengthening friendships, and celebrating the shared values that unite humanity.
That spirit was beautifully reflected during the Second Annual Women in Diplomacy Forum, organized by Diplomatic Watch Magazine in partnership with the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Washington, D.C. The elegant gathering commemorated the United Nations International Day of Women in Diplomacy while also celebrating a decade of the magazine’s dedication to promoting international friendship, cultural diplomacy, and dialogue among nations.
Guests entering the embassy were greeted by a striking photographic gallery showcasing Jordan’s Royal Family alongside nearly every modern President of the United States. The display served as a reminder of the enduring partnership between Jordan and the United States and the important role diplomacy continues to play in fostering peace and cooperation.
The forum was graciously hosted by Pamela Gotevbe, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Diplomatic Watch Magazine, whose warm welcome set the tone for an inspiring celebration attended by diplomats, ambassadors, business leaders, educators, and members of Washington’s international community.
Although the Ambassador of Jordan was unable to attend, the Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Diana Al-Hadid, welcomed guests on behalf of His Majesty King Abdullah II and the Government of Jordan, reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation and women’s leadership.
Inside the reception hall, elegant portraits of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah overlooked the gathering. Their presence revealed Jordan’s recognition of the important role women play in education, diplomacy, public service, business, and national development. The portraits also symbolized one of the forum’s central messages—that strong societies are built through partnership, mutual respect, and the complementary strengths of both women and men.
Women Changing the World
The forum’s featured panel brought together accomplished international leaders whose careers demonstrate the extraordinary impact that one individual can have on society.
Panelists included:
Sabrina Abdu, Founder of RVP Consultants and global advocate for education and children’s rights.
Dr. Judy Kuriansky, internationally recognized clinical psychologist, author, and United Nations representative for the International Association of Applied Psychology.
Dr. Nining Sri Astuti, spouse of the Ambassador of Indonesia and an advocate for education, diplomacy, and community development.
Shaz Akram, distinguished entrepreneur, who served as moderator.
Among the forum’s most inspiring presentations was the story shared by the spouse of the Ambassador of Indonesia, Dr. Nining Sri Astuti, whose career as an economist helped launch one of the world’s most successful microfinance initiatives. Beginning with loans designed to empower women entrepreneurs, the program ultimately expanded to benefit both women and men, creating opportunities for millions while strengthening families, communities, and local economies across Indonesia.
Dr. Judy Kuriansky offered another important perspective, emphasizing that national success should not be measured solely through economic growth. Drawing upon decades of work with the United Nations, she highlighted the growing international recognition of wellness, mental health, and happiness as meaningful indicators of a nation’s progress. Her remarks underscored that prosperity is measured not only by wealth, but by the health, resilience, and quality of life experienced by its citizens.
Throughout the discussion, Moderator Shaz Akram guided an engaging conversation exploring leadership, resilience, diplomacy, and the increasingly influential role women play across government, healthcare, education, business, and civil society.
One message resonated throughout the forum: the vision and determination of one woman can inspire positive change that reaches millions of lives.
Ultimately, the forum celebrated more than women’s leadership. It celebrated the enduring values of compassion, partnership, service, and international friendship—qualities that continue to build stronger communities and a more peaceful world.
In celebrating women, diplomacy celebrates the very best of humanity.
