This year, the unique platform brought together approximately 40 women’s charities and organisations under the umbrella of the Federation of International Women’s Associations in London (FIWAL) and, setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions on vital topics such as mental health and menopause.

The primary focus of the conference, as always, was to address and dispel common myths surrounding women’s health, particularly those pertaining to menopause and mental well-being. The idea was to provide expert insights, challenge misconceptions, and foster a deeper understanding of women’s health to promote informed decision-making for better overall well-being.

Dr Hannah Nazri, women’s health specialist and finalist of Women of the Future 2020, shed light on the deeply entrenched gender bias within the medical field during her captivating presentation titled “Taking charge of your health in a gender-biased world.” She not only urged patients to reclaim agency over their well-being but also challenged the system’s predisposition towards gender bias. Dr Nazri also highlighted society’s tendency to undervalue women post-menopause, perpetuating a narrative that fails to recognise their worth beyond reproductive capabilities.

In another notable session, Deborah Garlick, founder and CEO of Henpicked, delved into the intersection of menopause and the workplace. By raising awareness, providing strategies for managing menopause, and suggesting proactive measures for companies and offices, Deborah empowered attendees with a profound understanding of the issues at hand. It was a stark realisation that until recently, menopause was a glaring omission from school curricula, underscoring the need for change and education.

Dr Vidhi Patel, a captivating speaker, took the stage to illuminate the intricate connections between gut health, menopause, and mental well-being. Her insightful discourse dispelled myths and unveiled the profound impact of gut health on common menopausal symptoms like sleeplessness and bloating. Dr Patel also shared natural approaches to navigate these challenges, unravelling the profound influence of hormones on women’s holistic health.

Throughout the conference, our empowering discussions were complemented by practical solutions. Melissa Morbeck, global director of partnerships at the NO MORE Foundation, dedicated to working to end domestic violence and sexual abuse, led an engaging panel, answering audience questions and offering invaluable insights. This collaborative exchange of ideas fostered an atmosphere of growth and enabled attendees to leave with actionable knowledge.

After a nourishing lunch, we turned our attention to women’s health solutions, incorporating curated wellness videos and engaging in meditation and singing therapy sessions. The palpable energy in the room was contagious as we fearlessly shattered barriers, initiated crucial conversations, and confronted complex questions head-on.

The FIWAL conference proved to be a transformative experience, leaving an indelible mark on my journey. It fortified my commitment to champion women’s health as a critical focal point and fueled my determination to create a supportive environment where women can openly address their well-being. This event was a catalyst for change, emboldening women to seize control of their health and inspiring individuals to drive progress in this vital area of discourse.