PWN Celebrates International Women's Day 2024

Catherine Smith is Chair of the Professional Women’s Network (under the Chamber) and has been an active board member of the Chamber for more than 4 years. She has lived in Myanmar for more than 7 years, where she has established several successful startups, in business services and tourism, acted as advisor on market entry to overseas companies, and consulted to foreign and local businesses on tourism, marketing, property and consumer services.

Catherine is currently running her own business – Pragma Ventures – which is focused on reviving sericulture in Myanmar. Pragma works with, and trains farmers in Chin State to support mulberry planting for silk production, and then develops hand-woven product for local sale and export.

Catherine is passionate about female empowerment in her business - Pragma runs regular training programs with farmers and weavers to encourage farming communities to amplify the voice of women in daily life, and elevate them to leadership roles.

The Finnish Women’s Association Unioni (Naisasialiitto Unioni ry) is a feminist and antiracist non-governmental organisation established in 1892. They are based in Finland and currently have over 2000 members.

Unioni represents intersectional feminism concentrating on women’s rights. Intersectionality refers to the recognition that different forms of oppression often overlap and intersect, creating unique and varied experiences of discrimination.

In order to promote political, economic and social equality of the genders and to raise feminist consciousness in the Finnish society, Unioni makes public statements, publishes expert opinions on feminist issues and comments on pending legislations.

Lin is an Entrepreneur and Business Executive dedicated to empowering individuals for professional success. In her recent roles at Pepsi Myanmar (Lotte MGS Beverage Co., Ltd), she progressed from Director of Commercial & Operations to CEO in 2023. Lin specializes in driving revenue growth, strategic development, change management, restructuring, nationwide expansion, and comprehensive P&L oversight.

Lin brings a unique perspective to her role, shaped by her exposure to diverse cultures and an unconventional background acquired through studying and working in Myanmar, the UK, Singapore, Ireland, and Malaysia. Following a professional journey marked by diverse roles and international exposure, Lin returned to Myanmar in late 2013. She contributed to the project's success and Myanmar's energy landscape by taking charge of comprehensive project management for the development of power station project financing in Myanmar, demonstrating proficiency in financial management and strategic resource allocation. Lin navigated complex stakeholder, ensuring seamless project progression and compliance.

Yin Yin Oo, or Ma Yin as she is more affectionately known, is an Art Director at Bridge
Creative Agency. She was also a Proximity Designs alumnus, working as a designer and copywriter for over 20 years. Her collective insights on culture and behaviour should be bottled and sold, such is her wisdom. Ma Yin also has product prototyping and field research experience over ten years.

Khine Hmi Hmi Win is a seasoned professional currently serving as the Co-Managing Director at Bridge, where she brings over a decade of expertise in overseeing the general operations of the company. With a comprehensive skill set of Finance, HR, Account Management, and Administration, she plays a pivotal role in driving Bridge's success. Her leadership has been instrumental in effectively managing a team of 20 plus individuals while steering the company towards its strategic objectives.

Meet Daw Yu Wai Maung, a distinguished CSR Specialist and celebrated Motivational Speaker, ready to captivate the audience at the upcoming International Women's Day 2024. Well-known among Myanmar's youth for her numerous motivational speeches over the years. Recognized as a champion for education, gender equality, inclusion, and diversity, she embodies a compelling force that uniquely resonates with the youth, skillfully combining wisdom and humor.

Get ready to be inspired by the powerful and engaging presence of Daw Yu Wai!