For our IWD2026 keynote, Fotini Iconomopoulos brings the theme Give to Gain to life by exploring the power of sponsorship, strategic influence, and confident communication. Advancement does not happen in isolation. It happens when we advocate for ourselves and when leaders actively champion others in rooms they are not in. Drawing on behavioral science and real world negotiation strategy, Fotini will share how professionals can build credibility, earn meaningful buy in, and use influence to create opportunity for themselves and for other women. This session challenges us to see power not as something to protect, but as something to share. When we sponsor, advocate, and invest in one another, we all gain.

Key Takeaways

• Learn the difference between mentorship and sponsorship and why sponsorship is essential to advancing women • Learn how to actively give advocacy and open doors for others while strengthening your own leadership • Communicate with clarity and credibility in moments that shape career progression • Use influence intentionally to build collective power, not just individual success