FICFF Women’s Forum 2025 at the United Nations – Advancing Gender Equality and a Sustainable Future

As an official side event of the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), the forum gathered nearly a hundred distinguished guests—including entrepreneurs, creative pioneers, policymakers, and philanthropists—to engage in dialogue on three key topics: women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and sustainable fashion innovation.

Global Dialogue on Empowerment and Innovation

The event opened with remarks from Ambassador Marco A. Suazo Fernandez, Director of UNITAR’s New York Office, who emphasized that “Empowering women is not only a matter of equality—it is the foundation of social stability and sustainable economic growth.”

Yitong Qin, Founder and Chair of FICFF and CEO of UNIPX Group, introduced the FICFF Women Forward Program, an initiative designed to support women through forums, entrepreneurship programs, and community engagement. He also announced an expanded collaboration with UNITAR to create new learning programs focused on women and children’s development.

In a discussion on “Breaking Barriers: Women’s Leadership and Innovation,” Abigail Posner, Google’s U.S. Creative Director and FICFF Founding Member, spoke with Georgina Chapman, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Marchesa, who reflected on her lifelong passion for design and the importance of strong creative foundations. Chapman emphasized that true empowerment means “allowing women to live life on their own terms, free from fear and judgment.”

The next session, “The Economic Power of Women Entrepreneurs,” featured Maribel Lieberman (Founder of MarieBelle Chocolates), Sana H. Bao (Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley), and Abigail Posner. They discussed challenges and opportunities for women in business and finance. Bao highlighted the underrepresentation of women in investment leadership and urged women to claim their worth: “We deserve more—and we have the right to ask for more.”

Creativity, Sustainability, and the Future of Fashion

In a powerful discussion on the intersection of sustainability and creativity, Nicola Formichetti, Global Creative Director of MAC Cosmetics and Fashion Director at V Magazine, joined Yitong Qin and Abigail Posner. Formichetti shared how the strong women in his life, including his mother and longtime collaborator Lady Gaga, inspired his creative philosophy. “Collaboration and empowerment are everything,” he said. “Fashion can communicate powerful messages—it’s our tool to inspire change.”

Qin added that “the future of fashion must be built on ethics, sustainability, and responsibility. It’s not just about beauty—it’s about impact.”

A Message from Maye Musk

Special guest Maye Musk, renowned model, nutritionist, and author, appeared via a special video message. She shared her personal story of reinvention and resilience, urging women to “never fear change or age—success has no expiration date.” Her message echoed the forum’s spirit of courage, unity, and progress.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 FICFF Women’s Forum marked an important milestone in advancing FICFF’s mission to promote gender equality and sustainable development. Moving forward, the foundation will expand its Women Forward Program, providing education, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support for women worldwide while continuing to integrate sustainability and innovation into every aspect of fashion and social impact.