Founder of United Producers of Mexico (UPM)
Topic: Cultural differences in international Business.
THE NETHERLANDS
LICENSED PRACTITIONER UNITED KINGDOM
27-31st May 2025
We welcome KENWA Consulting Ltd, Licensed Practitioner of ProtocolToday United Kingdom!
Program to become a mindful executive with the skills to navigate and operate smoothly around the globe!
Global Mindset Skills
Learn Today & Practice Today!
Successful Masterclass Program to Dominica and Sant Lucia High Commission representatives in the United Kingdom.
MASTERCLASSES
- International Business Etiquette and Professionalism
- International Business Protocol
- International Cultural Intelligence
- Dine Like a Diplomat
About ProtocolToday
ProtocolToday is fully equipped to facilitate and support executives and organisations in the private and public sectors in mastering global mindset skills to cooperate efficiently with executives and organisations worldwide.
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Testimonials:
- The masterclass helps in interactions when attending formal occasions and daily makes it a habit of good practice.
- I love the active participation and interaction.
- I will implement the learning in my work, business, and personal life.
- The information was relevant and easy to follow. The examples were amazing and will stay with me for a long time.
References:
- The training was well-designed, and the information has improved my quality of life!
- Diplomatic missions should make this training requirement for new diplomats joining the mission.
AMBASSADORS` BALL BY DIPLOMATIC COUNCIL BANGKOK, THAILAND 2024
Bangkok, Thailand
PRESS RELEASE – AMBASSADORS` BALL BY DIPLOMATIC COUNCIL BANGKOK, THAILAND 2024
On March 8th, 2024, The Diplomatic Council, in collaboration with the Diplomatic Corps of Thailand, proudly presented Thailand’s Inaugural Ambassadors’ Ball, a prestigious event held at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok. This evening marked a convergence of diplomacy and business, offering a platform for sophisticated cultural exchange and meaningful connections.
The Inaugural Ambassadors’ Ball epitomized Thailand’s contributions to global initiatives while providing a unique opportunity for networking and relationship-building. It underscored Thailand’s commitment to promoting diplomacy and fostering positive connections that transcend borders.
Under the distinguished patronage of the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Thailand, H.E. Datuk Jojie Samuel, Ambassador of Malaysia to Thailand, the event welcomed H.E. Mr. Wanmuhamad Noor Matha, President of the National Assembly and the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Kingdom of Thailand, as the guest of honor.
The event saw an impressive turnout, with ambassadors and Heads of Missions from 60 countries in attendance. Additionally, vice ministers from key government ministries. Their diverse representation underscored the event’s significance in fostering international partnerships and promoting global relations. The event was honored to receive congratulatory messages from Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H.E. Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul.
The event featured exclusive performances by ambassadors, showcasing their talents and providing entertainment for the attendees. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture curated a captivating Thai fusion performance, enriching the evening with local cultural elements. Beyond its focus on diplomacy and business, the Ambassadors’ Ball also provided a platform to champion philanthropic causes. It embraced philanthropic initiatives, spotlighting the Chaipattanna Foundation under the Royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Funds raised after covering essential expenses will be directed to support the foundation’s charitable endeavors, underscoring Thailand’s steadfast dedication to social welfare and community development.
Special recognition is extended to the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, H.E. Mr. Paolo Dionisi, Ambassador of Italy to Thailand, as well as to Dato’ Steve Cheah, the Diplomatic Council’s Head of Mission, and the dedicated committee members: Ms. Ulpiana Lama, Head of Mission at the Embassy of Kosovo in Bangkok, and H.E. Ambassador Nongnuth Petcharatana, former Thai ambassador to Austria and Germany and member of the Diplomatic Council’s Board of Presidents.
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AMBASSADORS` BALL BY DIPLOMATIC COUNCIL BANGKOK, THAILAND 2024
Video
Bangkok, Thailand
Ambassadors` Ball by Diplomatic Council Bangkok, Thailand 2024
On March 8th, 2024, The Diplomatic Council, in collaboration with the Diplomatic Corps of Thailand, proudly presented Thailand’s Inaugural Ambassadors’ Ball, a prestigious event held at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok. This evening marked a convergence of diplomacy and business, offering a platform for sophisticated cultural exchange and meaningful connections.
The Inaugural Ambassadors’ Ball epitomized Thailand’s contributions to global initiatives while providing a unique opportunity for networking and relationship-building. It underscored Thailand’s commitment to promoting diplomacy and fostering positive connections that transcend borders.
Under the distinguished patronage of the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Thailand, H.E. Datuk Jojie Samuel, Ambassador of Malaysia to Thailand, the event welcomed H.E. Mr. Wanmuhamad Noor Matha, President of the National Assembly and the Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Kingdom of Thailand, as the guest of honor.
The event saw an impressive turnout, with ambassadors and Heads of Missions from 60 countries in attendance. Additionally, vice ministers from key government ministries. Their diverse representation underscored the event’s significance in fostering international partnerships and promoting global relations. The event was honored to receive congratulatory messages from Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H.E. Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul.
The event featured exclusive performances by ambassadors, showcasing their talents and providing entertainment for the attendees. Additionally, the Ministry of Culture curated a captivating Thai fusion performance, enriching the evening with local cultural elements. Beyond its focus on diplomacy and business, the Ambassadors’ Ball also provided a platform to champion philanthropic causes. It embraced philanthropic initiatives, spotlighting the Chaipattanna Foundation under the Royal patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Funds raised after covering essential expenses will be directed to support the foundation’s charitable endeavors, underscoring Thailand’s steadfast dedication to social welfare and community development.
Special recognition is extended to the Chairman of the Organizing Committee, H.E. Mr. Paolo Dionisi, Ambassador of Italy to Thailand, as well as to Dato’ Steve Cheah, the Diplomatic Council’s Head of Mission, and the dedicated committee members: Ms. Ulpiana Lama, Head of Mission at the Embassy of Kosovo in Bangkok, and H.E. Ambassador Nongnuth Petcharatana, former Thai ambassador to Austria and Germany and member of the Diplomatic Council’s Board of Presidents.
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3rd INTERNATIONAL PROTOCOL AND SOFT DIPLOMACY CONFERENCE
15th, May 2025
Time: 14:00 hrs – 19:00 hrs. (CET)
Mode: Hybrid (onsite-online)
Avenue: The Hague, The Netherlands
Investment mode on-site: Early bird 1 ticket €102.00; regular price 1 ticket € 120.00; special price 5 tickets €540.00.
Investment mode online: €70.00
Dress code: Business formal.
1 DAY | 6 SPEAKERS | 4 CONTINENTS | 30 COUNTRIES
EAST MEETS WEST
Why Global Mindset Skills
The world is transforming into a global village, and we need executives who can navigate smoothly across cultures. Cultural intelligence and understanding of cultures are key challenges for entrepreneurs and investors in expanding their businesses across borders.
Objectives
The conference aims to bridge the gap between cultures worldwide from multidimensional perspectives and share insights to enable and empower participants to understand their business partners better and bridge gaps.
As audience
The conference will offer numerous opportunities to share, connect, grow and increase your perspectives worldwide!
The conference includes:
- Meet, greet and connect with business people from more than 30 countries.
- Increase efficiency and learn from each other.
- Inspire, motivate and increase co-creation capacities.
- Cooperation opportunities with prospects.
- Walking diner.
- Certificate of presence.
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GENERAL PROGRAM
Timetable
Amsterdam | Montreal | Sydney | Dubai| Shangai | Mexico City
YOUR LOCAL TIME
14:00 Registration
14:30 Welcome remarks
Conference Part 1
16:00 Break
16:30 Conference Part 2
17:00 Discussion panel
18:00 Networking & sharing opportunities
19:00 End of the program
SPEAKERS & PANELLISTS
Reinier W.L. Russell
Managing Partner at Russell Advocaten B.V. Consul of Brazil and President at Courp Consulaire Netherlands (CCN) .
Paneslist.
THE NETHERLANDS
Lia Blijnsdorp
Founder of United Producers of Mexico (UPM)
Topic: Cultural differences in international Business.
THE NETHERLANDS
Adriana Flores, MA
Executive Director of ProtocoloToday
President of Iberoamericanas FHCI
President FHCI Netherlands
TEAM
Carina Herrera
Public Relations, Argentina
Marta Bonilla
Master of Ceremony and Moderator, The Netherlands
Carla Esparaza
Research, Spain
Cristina Galbé
Logistic, The Netherlands
PARTICIPANTS ARE:
- Government Representatives: Ambassadors, Diplomats, Honorary Consuls & Embassy Staff;
- Business Professionals: Entrepreneurs, Consultants, Business Development Professionals;
- Executives & Professionals: National & Local Government’s Officials, City Marketing & Investments Promotion Executives | International Organizations Staff;
- Professionals, students and journalist.
SPONSOR
MEDIA PARTNERS
MASTERCLASSES IN LONDON
29, 30 and 31st May 2024
Time: 9:30 – 16:30 hrs.
Avenue: St. Lucia and Dominica High Commission, 1 Collingham Garden, London SW5 0HW
1-day masterclass fee £500, 3-days masterclass fee £1200 including:
- Method action Learning model;
- Digital material;
- Personalized assessment;
- Certificate EQF 7 level of ProtocolToday Academy
- Accredited by CPD in the United Kingdom
- Beverage and lunch
Dress code: Business formal
Limited to 15 participants!
In collaboration with KENWA Consulting Ltd, Licenced Practitioner of ProtocolToday.
Become a mindful executive with the skills to navigate and operate smoothly around the globe!
Global Mindset Skills
Learn Today & Practice Today
Globalisation is changing the world in every aspect. Traditional industrial economies are transforming into entrepreneurial economies.
Leaders need to develop global mindset skills, such as the skills needed to create, maintain, and manage deep relationships with people from different cultures and with different values.
ProtocolToday is fully equipped to facilitate and support executives and organisations in the private and public sectors in mastering global mindset skills to cooperate efficiently with executives and organisations worldwide.
MASTERCLASSES
29th May International Business Etiquette and Professionalism
Key topics include:
- Business card protocol & handshake, Business customs & terminology;
- Professional communication, how to dress appropriately, personal style and its influence on your communication;
- The right way of behaving online in a business context, International Business Etiquette
30th May International Business Protocol
Key topics include:
- Business card protocol & handshake, Business customs & terminology;
- Professional communication, how to dress appropriately, personal style and its influence on your communication;
- The right way of behaving online in a business context, International Business Etiquette
31st May International Cultural Intelligence (1/2 day)
Key topics include:
- Cultural & Emotional Intelligence, The Power of Culture in Business;
- Dimensions of cultures, Intercultural & multicultural;
- Mindfulness, Analysis of cultures and impact on professional behaviour.
31st May Dine Like a Diplomat (1/2 day)
Key topics include:
- Protocol to make invitations, extend, accept, cancel, and receive guests: What should you do at the receiving line?
- Host duties and his protocol, Organizing a proper business luncheon;
- Select restaurant, table setting, greeting guests, hospitality, and protocol. Seating guidelines: correct seating for a business meal.
Participants are:
- Government Representatives: Ambassadors, Diplomats, Honorary Consuls & Embassy Staff;
- Business Professionals: Entrepreneurs, Consultants, Business Development Professionals;
- Executives & Professionals: National & Local Government Officials, City Marketing & Investments Promotion Executives | International Organizations Staff;
- Professionals are active in the Hospitality & Tourism Industry.
BUSINESS PROTOCOL FOR NEGOTIATION WITH KOREANS
The growing internationalisation of the economy requires behavioural guidelines that allow for correct conduct, enabling effective negotiation in the professional environment. The business protocol stands as the only effective tool capable of structuring the entire negotiation process, acquiring considerable importance in an international context since “to negotiate effectively with a foreigner,” as stated by Ambassador Mr. José Antonio de Urbina, knowledge of the “golden rules of knowing how to be, be and function in business” is essential. In this sense, an exhaustive understanding of the culture, customs, sensitivities, and codes indispensable in a negotiation is essential in creating a solid business relationship with foreign entities. The course of negotiation can be very uneven in different countries and cultures because forms of communication can mean very different purposes, and what is respectful in one country may be considered humiliating in another. “Hence the convenience of prior knowledge of the customs in negotiation, the idiosyncrasies and, especially, the way of being of the other negotiating party,” said Ambassador Urbina.
The ancient Korean culture has a wealth of values and traditions, reflected in its behaviour and excellent habits of conduct, such as courtesy, deep respect, and honesty, which are added to rituals of great cordiality. This way, it defines how to proceed in its commercial relationships based on compliance, quality, and foolproof persistence. Suppose you are going to start a professional relationship with Korean business people. In that case, you will find yourself with efficiently prepared negotiators, harmoniously developing and forming a unique and intelligent team with obvious strategic purposes, leaving nothing to chance in the negotiation.
Negotiating with a Korean, particularly in its initial phase, demands significant patience and perseverance in the procedures and ways of acting. This is crucial as it creates a firm bond with the negotiators long before the first formal contact at the meeting table. Negotiations with Koreans tend to be lengthy, often lasting months. Demonstrating concern in the process can be perceived as a sign of weakness and a loss of value that will be translated against. To schedule a meeting and be effective, not only holidays and vacations but also periods as crucial as the so-called Seollal (lunar new year) and Chuseok (day of honour) must be considered so as not to set the call. To the ancestor), as well as Gwangbokjeol, which, translated into Spanish, means ‘National Liberation Day’ or its independence day, August 15. The meeting must be convened several weeks in advance, having sent the Korean counterpart general information about the company in English and preferably also in Korean, thus denoting interest and fostering understanding with the other negotiating party.
Once this preamble has been strengthened, the spirit that must be possessed to strengthen these links with the Korean market must be based on consolidating interpersonal relationships, which require refined diplomacy in making contact. Factors that require special consideration are those such as The choice of a private room for the meeting, a sign of luxury and suitable for dealing with any business; Extreme punctuality, if it is already considerable in the Asian world, for Koreans, a simple minute out of time, is an absolute lack of respect and education, greatly damaging future negotiations; Respect for hierarchy and manners: Both parties must attend this meeting with the same hierarchical rank, hence the convenience of incorporating people of the same position or position in the negotiation; A consonance in the number of attendees on both sides is also substantial. For reliable and compliant Koreans, this particularity is an indicator of formality. Manners are essential during introductions; in the business context with a Korean, the appropriate greeting is made with a slight inclination of the head about fifteen or twenty degrees, followed by a handshake with eye contact, extending the right hand in turn. The left holding the elbow of the right, denoting with this gesture the weight and importance given to the person with whom one interacts. The greeting should be addressed first to the person of the highest rank to end with the lowest rank. The exchange of business cards must be carried out with an exact gesture, consisting of giving and receiving it with both hands. Once taken as a sign of respect, it should be read carefully and not be kept immediately, never in a pocket, as it could be considered an offence. It is appropriate to be placed in an important place, being able to leave it, for example, on the negotiation table, but under no circumstances should it be written on. The business cards of the other negotiating party must be written in English.
In this knowledge of how to function in business, other aspects must be considered to bring the negotiation to a successful conclusion. In the practice of negotiation with Korea, it is essential to avoid confusion in the agreement since misuse of the language can be considered an offence, the most appropriate thing in this type of meeting being the assistance of an interpreter who translates the native language into Korean, and if this were native, an even better option. Koreans do not feel comfortable speaking English, even if they master it. During the development of the meeting, which will have the heads of each delegation as spokespersons, there must be no interruptions, no speaking in one’s language, and respect for the moments of silence essential for reflection and serenity. In his negotiations, the Korean is sensitive to the technical and not the political; he will never deviate from a previously established script, granting the word a great value, so one must be very compliant with the commitments made. The Koreans highly appreciate Western gifts; they like to entertain with a typical book from their country, a cardholder, or even chopsticks, and typically, they also give a plaque of appreciation detailing the encounter. Regarding the Western counterpart, for the gift to be appreciated, it must be similar to the one received, avoiding gifts that add up to the number four, considered bad luck and detailing as a curiosity, that they appreciate whiskey, traditionally Irish, if it is European negotiators.
“Do your best to know who you have to face. “Never sit down and deal with a stranger.” This is what Somers White declares, referring to the fact that in the art of good negotiation, exhaustive knowledge of everything that concerns our interlocutors is essential, essentially, their negotiation methods.
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Writer by María Amóros Gurriarán, Expert in Protocol and Institutional Relations
30th April 2024, Spain
Category: Business Protocol
Reference: MA300424BP
“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”
GLOBAL MEMBERSHIP
ProtocolToday® in The Netherlands is an expert organisation in international protocol, diplomacy, soft skills, business etiquette, and international cultural intelligence.
As a capacity development company, we aim to connect societies, values, cultures, organisations and individuals worldwide. Our global network comprises profit, non-profit, public, and government professionals.
Our network
ASIA | AFRICA | AMERICA | AUSTRALIA | LATIN AMERICA | CARIBBEAN | EUROPE | + 50 Countries
Investment:
Individual membership per year €50,00
Company membership per year. Three members €100,00
Become a Global Member!
Global Mindset Skills
Membership benefits:
Global community
- Meet, match and liaise with peers from all over the world;
- Free access to online global events;
- Free access to 8 – 12 SME international networking (online) per year, highlighting the cultural aspects and business opportunities in a subject country.
Knowledge & Discounts
- Priority access to the masterclass programs;
- Members enjoy a 10% discount on the ProtocolToday Academy Masterclass programs;
- Free digital copy of our Magazine Global Mindset.
Business Opportunities
- Opportunity to pitch your proposition during international online networking
- events;
- Free access to an economic analysis of selected countries;
- Opportunity for networking with other entrepreneurs and potential customers.
Distinguished & international
- Stand out from the crowd due to awareness about soft skills, ethics, image, dress codes, etc.;
- Opportunity to build your global network of colleagues, business partners and friends;
- Mindfulness skills to deal with and work with people from all over the world.
WOMEN AS CULTURAL AMBASSADOR ENGLISH SESSION
28th March 2024, ENGLISH SESSION
The “Women as Cultural Ambassador” International Seminar, hosted by Protocol Today and Ibera Benicana’s Foundation, brought together distinguished speakers to explore women’s role in cultural diplomacy. The seminar aimed to highlight the importance of cultural exchange, communication, and collaboration in building bridges and fostering positive relationships on a global scale.
The seminar featured a lineup of distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and experiences on the vital role of women as cultural bridge-builders, drivers of change, and engines of economic growth.
Haifa Al-Kailani, the President and Founder of the Arab International Women’s Forum spoke about the importance of cultural competency, communication, collaboration, and coalition building as a development economist and advocate for women’s leadership and economic empowerment. Sabine van Dijk-Schuizen, a female empowerment advocate and G100 country chair for the Netherlands, discussed the concept of “cyclic leadership” and the value of embracing feminine qualities like sensitivity and soft skills in today’s dynamic environment. Dr Cherin Jallis, a distinguished specialist in etiquette and business protocol in the United Arab Emirates, emphasised the significance of protocol, etiquette, and mutual respect in cross-cultural interactions and the need for women to take a more dominant role. Elsa Wilkin Armister, the Minister-Counselor at the Sanctus Kids and Nevis High Commission in the United Kingdom, delved into the theme of the positive impact of cultural diplomacy. Drawing on her expertise in cultural diplomacy, country branding, and international marketing, Elsa shared how cultural exchange can foster mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation for diverse cultures.
Key Takeaways from the Seminar:
Building Bridges through Cultural Exchange: Haifa Al Kaylani, President & Founder of the Arab International Women’s Forum, shared her experiences promoting women’s leadership and economic growth globally. She underscored the value of cultural exchange, communication, and collaboration in bridging gaps between Arab and international communities, emphasising the pivotal role of these elements in achieving sustainable development and more robust international partnerships. Sabine van Dijk-Schuizen, a female empowerment advocate, spoke about embracing “cyclic leadership” and the feminine qualities of sensitivity, soft skills, and the ability to explain values and culture more understandably. She encouraged the audience to take on the role of cultural ambassadors, as “women are much more sensitive” and can make “others feel comfortable with them.” Embracing “cyclic leadership” and feminine qualities like sensitivity, empathy, and the ability to explain values and culture understandably is essential in today’s dynamic environment. Women can make their people and others feel more comfortable through their cultural competence and soft skills.
Cultural Diplomacy for Positive Impact: Elsa Wilkin-Armbrister, Minister Counsellor, emphasised the positive impact of cultural diplomacy in promoting international cooperation and understanding. She showcased how cultural exchange can lead to mutual respect and appreciation for diverse cultures, fostering a more harmonious global community. The speakers emphasised the importance of cultural competency, communication, and collaboration in promoting greater understanding between communities, businesses, and nations. Haifa Al-Kailani, President and Founder of the Arab International Women’s Forum, shared her experience of how “communication, collaboration, cultural exchange, and coalition building have been pivotal” to her achievements and the forum’s success. Effective communication, collaboration, cultural exchange, and coalition building are vital for fostering greater understanding between communities, businesses, and nations.
Women as Engines of Economic Growth: Sabine Van Ditzhuijzen, G100 Country Chair, delved into cyclic leadership, guiding female leaders through insightful journeys and breaking taboos in leadership roles. She highlighted the importance of empowering women and fostering diversity in leadership positions to drive positive change across all organisational levels. The speakers highlighted how cultural diplomacy can be an “engine of economic growth” as it helps build stronger bonds of friendship, diversify economies, and advance a country’s political and cultural position. Elsa Wilkin-Armister, Minister-Counselor at the St. Kitts and Nevis High Commission, shared how a hot sauce competition at Expo 2020 Dubai led to a memorandum of understanding between St. Kitts and Nevis and the UAE, demonstrating the power of cultural exchange. Women can leverage their artistic competence, sensitivity, and soft skills to dominate as cultural ambassadors and bridge-builders.
Protocol, Etiquette, and Respect: Dr. Cherin Jallis, a specialist in etiquette and business protocol in the UAE, emphasized the significance of protocol, etiquette, and mutual respect in cross-cultural interactions. She stated that “it’s not enough” to have a historically male-dominated world and that “it’s time that women should take over this role, or at least to play a more dominant role in this setting of the world today.” Protocol, etiquette, and mutual respect are crucial in cross-cultural interactions and diplomacy. Women should take on a more dominant role in this area, as they are generally more sensitive and better at mastering soft skills than men.
Quotes for Modern-Day Women in Diplomacy:
Elsa Wilkin-Armbrister: “Cultural diplomacy is the language of understanding that transcends borders and fosters mutual respect.”
Sabine Van Ditzhuijzen: “Empowering women in leadership is not just a choice, but a necessity for driving meaningful change and inclusivity.”
Haifa Al Kaylani: “In a world interconnected by diversity, communication, collaboration, and cultural exchange are the pillars of building lasting bridges and successful partnerships.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “Women as Cultural Ambassadors” International Seminar provided a powerful platform to celebrate the contributions of women as cultural diplomats and to inspire participants to take on the mantle of cultural ambassadorship in their spheres of influence. Through the expertise shared by distinguished speakers, we have gained valuable lessons on leveraging cultural exchanges to build bridges, foster international cooperation, and strengthen relationships between nations. As we reflect on the significance of embracing diversity, communicating values, and fostering understanding across cultures, we are reminded of the positive impact that cultural diplomacy can have in shaping a more interconnected, harmonious world. The recognition of the contributions of individuals and nations in promoting cultural relations and international cooperation paves the way for a future built on mutual respect, collaboration, and shared prosperity. Let us continue to champion the role of women as cultural ambassadors, celebrate our cultural heritage, and work towards a more inclusive and interconnected global community. The lessons and perspectives shared will continue to resonate and guide women in pursuing greater cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.
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Writer by Eric Muhia, International Studies and Diplomacy Graduate Student and Young Diplomat.
02 April 2024, Kenya
Category: Diplomacy
Reference: EM02042024D
“Somos una empresa de desarrollo de capacidades que conecta valores, culturas, organizaciones, individuos y sociedades en todo el mundo”
WOMEN AS CULTURAL AMBASSADOR SPANISH SESSION
28th March 2024 SPANISH SESSION
Recently, PROTOCOLTODAY and the International Honoris Causa Foundation organized the International Seminar “Women as Cultural Ambassadors”, which was held virtually from the Netherlands on the occasion of International Women’s Day. This important event, broadcast in English and Spanish, brought together a wide audience from more than 30 countries.
Adriana Flores, executive director of PROTOCOLTODAY, highlighted the professional prestige of the speakers and the quality of the topics shared. In her turn, Marco Tardelli, president of the International Honoris Causa Foundation, pointed out that women are active protagonists in the significant changes in society. “We want them to occupy a significant space to promote their effective Hispanic American leadership in the United Nations Organization,” he emphasised.
Berenice Rangel (Mexico), executive director of Latin America Invest, spoke on “Crosscultural Wealth: Wealth Management Strategies with Global Intelligence for International Businesses.” She referred to the business strategies: “We are looking to diversify assets due to the changes that have occurred in Latin America in recent times.” Financial and fiscal complexity drives global wealth transformation. “The new generations are looking to invest in technology companies,” she stated. She explained the phenomenon of globalisation and its influence on the wealth management administration. Businesses are increasingly complex due, among other reasons, to the knowledge revolution reflected through “artificial intelligence.”
She added: “After the pandemic, we are looking for digital business innovation to unite markets and move from one place to another, taking advantage of the situation in the region. To do this, mechanisms must be used based on the financial reality and political changes in the countries.” Consequently, the “country brand” is essential and “favors the business climate and allows a stable tax regime.”
For her part, Ana Navarro Ramos (Spain), Director of Protocol of the Ministry of Economy, Commerce and Business, presented the topic “Women as ambassadors of change: Impact on international protocol.” She emphasised that she “plays a vital role in all areas of society. “We play a significant role in the current vicissitudes.” She recounted her career as a member of the Spanish army in the European Union and indicated that there are multiple missions abroad in which women participate. She explained that 35 years have passed since the female military presence in Spain. She also shared her expertise in the Ministry of Defence protocol area and her countless functions with foreign delegations.
The protocol is the “first face of the institution to the outside,” she highlighted. She said, “the national holiday is an important event that unites the Spanish people and is characterised by the military parade led by the kings.” She recounted her journey in other government sectors that allowed her to “explore the concept of protocol, get to know the world, participate in events and extend my vision of protocol” and, in addition, prepare business events and ministerial summits. At the end, she asked herself, “Where are they? In 2018, an initiative was created to promote its visibility through advertising actions.” She highlighted: “Women have empathy, a unique perspective, effective communication, creativity and expression and, in addition, communicative leadership.”
Edith Cortelezzi (Argentina), a trainer at the ISEN Institute, discussed the topic “Business Protocol”. In her presentation, she emphasised specifying that the protocol and ceremonies are updated and not out of fashion. “Today, there is a protocol for the digital world, cell phones, and computers. Now, women also handle these issues, and they are not exclusive to men as they were for a long time,” she pointed out. People increasingly understand the validity and magnitude of the protocol in commercial travel. She stressed: “Women must value the collaboration of men in a woman’s life.” She emphasised the importance of appreciating and recommending the permanent application of protocol, good manners and courtesy above time and distances.
Likewise, Emilia Zaballos (Spain), president of Zeballos Abogados, supported the presentation “If you want it, you have it!” She began by remembering that we always talk about “equality.” She stated: “Equality is giving everyone the same instruments to achieve what they want. Each one will see how far he can go depending on our capabilities and commitments.” She alluded to the disproportion and indifference to current social problems.
When presenting her experience, he commented: “My soul projection has been the Foundation for Constitutional Rights, which is now well established in the Spanish community, to help change the reality that affects certain human groups. She stressed the imperative of including social commitment and sharing our experiences to serve the common good. “Give back to the community what we have achieved in life. In my life, values such as courage, perseverance and training have helped me understand at the beginning of our careers and learn daily. Have the will to collect what contributes to our survival,” she stressed. She ended by referring to the need to accentuate the participation of women. “We must be better, compete and know how to give recognition. When they are the best, they must make them known, and they will be visible, making it easier for them to continue fighting to fulfil their dreams.”
In short, a successful contest – “made with the heart”, according to Adriana Flores – filled with enriching learning, experiences, reflections and contributions aimed at revaluing the performance of women; an opportunity to collect instructive experiences that inspire us to continue in this ongoing fight for gender parity. Your involvement will contribute to defining a fair, empathetic world framed by values that are unavoidable to recognise and encourage, such as reciprocity, respect, and acceptance.
Let us have the unwavering determination to strengthen will, perseverance, and dedication to this noble and imperious task. In this sense, the expressions of the former Secretary General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, come to mind: “Gender equality is more than an objective in itself. It is a precondition to face the challenge of reducing poverty, promoting sustainable development, and building good government.”
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PROTOCOLTODAY ACADEMY OF PROTOCOL & SOFT DIPLOMACY
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