Cindy Yu, Assistant Editor at the Spectator and host of the “Chinese Whispers” podcast, UK
- Laura Chinchilla, Former President of Costa Rica, Costa Rica, Mexico, USA
- Angie Lau, Broadcaster and tech entrepreneur, Hong Kong
- Jean Dong, China policy expert, USA
- Diana Choyleva, Leading expert on China’s economy and politics, UK
- Juliana Liu, Asia Editor at CNN Business, Hong Kong
- K.T. McFarland, Former US Deputy National Security Advisor, USA
- Sharanjit Leyl, Top international moderator and host, Singapore, UK
- Mary Harrington, “Reactionary Feminist” and cultural commentator, UK
The global stage is evolving rapidly, with shifting power dynamics, emerging threats, and unprecedented opportunities. In such a climate, understanding geopolitics and international affairs has never been more critical.
For too long, male voices have dominated the fields of geopolitics and international relations, often overshadowing the unique perspectives and contributions of women. And yet, women have historically played key roles in diplomacy, conflict resolution, global development, and policymaking.
Women geopolitics speakers’ influence continues to grow, offering innovative and inclusive approaches to tackling complex global challenges. From climate negotiations to peace talks, the contributions of women in global decision-making are vital.
Whether you’re organising a conference, planning a leadership seminar, or simply seeking inspiration, these women bring invaluable insights into the pressing issues shaping our world.
In this article, we shine a spotlight on the best women keynote speakers who not only provide deep insights into these topics but also inspire change and foster collaboration across sectors.
Importance of Women’s Voices in Geopolitics
Historically, women have been underrepresented in positions of power within geopolitics and international relations. Despite comprising half of the global population, their voices are often marginalised in decision-making processes that shape the future of nations and international policies.
This gap is evident in key roles such as ambassadors, heads of state, military leadership, and negotiators in peace talks. According to studies by organisations like the UN Women, when women are included in peace negotiations, the likelihood of agreements lasting more than 15 years increases by 35%.
This underrepresentation is not just a matter of equality; it impacts the effectiveness of solutions. Without diverse perspectives, strategies often lack the inclusivity and creativity needed to address multifaceted global issues such as migration crises, economic inequality, and cyber threats.
Unique Perspectives Women Bring
Women in geopolitics often bring unique perspectives shaped by diverse life experiences, a focus on inclusivity, and an emphasis on long-term outcomes. Their leadership tends to prioritise collaboration over competition, with a strong inclination toward conflict resolution and community building. For example:
- Peacebuilding: Women frequently adopt approaches that emphasise dialogue, reconciliation, and grassroots involvement. Studies show that female negotiators often advocate for sustainable peace agreements that address underlying causes of conflict, rather than temporary ceasefires.
- Social Focus: Women leaders often emphasise issues that affect the broader population, such as education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. This broadens the scope of geopolitics to include human-centric policies alongside economic and military strategies.
- Empathy and Communication: Women are often recognised for fostering open communication and building trust, qualities that are critical in diplomatic relations.
Including women in geopolitics is not just about fairness; it is about creating better outcomes for everyone. By elevating women leaders and amplifying their voices, we pave the way for more balanced and effective solutions to global challenges.
Criteria for Selection
To identify the best women keynote speakers on geopolitics and international affairs, several key factors ensure their expertise and impact:
- Expertise: Speakers should have strong academic credentials and significant professional experience in fields like international relations, economics, or diplomacy. Specialised knowledge in areas such as global trade, climate diplomacy, or cybersecurity enhances their credibility.
- Relevance: Their focus should address pressing global issues, from climate change and economic recovery to regional conflicts. Regional expertise or insight into cross-cutting themes like technology and sustainability adds depth to their presentations.
- Influence: Thought leadership is reflected in published works, contributions to international policies, and engagement with audiences. Effective speakers inspire action and connect with diverse groups, from policymakers to corporate leaders.
- Diversity: Including women from different cultural, regional, and professional backgrounds ensures a broad range of perspectives and fosters inclusivity in global discourse.
- Engagement: Exceptional communication skills, storytelling, and audience interaction are essential for delivering memorable and impactful presentations.
- Recognition: Awards, accolades, and endorsements from respected organisations validate their contributions to international affairs.
With these criteria, organisers can select speakers who bring expertise, relevance, and inspiration to address today’s complex global challenges.
The Best Female Geopolitics Keynote Speakers
Cindy Yu
Cindy Yu is a British-Chinese journalist and broadcaster, currently serving as the assistant editor (broadcast) at The Spectator, where she also hosts the “Chinese Whispers” podcast. Born in Nanjing, China, she moved to the United Kingdom at the age of 10.
Yu pursued higher education at the University of Oxford, earning a degree in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, followed by a Master of Science in Contemporary Chinese Studies.
Yu’s expertise in Chinese politics and society, combined with her role in British media, positions her as a valuable keynote speaker on geopolitics.
Her bicultural background and academic credentials enable her to provide nuanced insights into China’s domestic policies and its international relations.
Through her podcast and writings, she has demonstrated the ability to communicate complex geopolitical issues to a broad audience, making her perspectives accessible and engaging.
Notable Achievements
- Broadcast Editor at The Spectator: Manages the magazine’s audio and video content, enhancing its multimedia presence.
- Host of “Chinese Whispers” Podcast: Explores various facets of Chinese politics, society, and culture, providing listeners with in-depth analyses.
- Media Commentator: Regularly appears on platforms such as BBC World Service and RTÉ, offering expertise on China-related topics.
- Public Speaker: Delivered the opening keynote at the 2020 YCW-Lau Conference, discussing China’s trajectory in the 2020s.
Key Speeches or Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17h5sAi1F7E
Laura Chinchilla
Laura Chinchilla Miranda, born on March 28, 1959, in Desamparados, Costa Rica, is a distinguished political scientist and politician. She made history as Costa Rica’s first female president, serving from 2010 to 2014. Prior to her presidency, Chinchilla held significant roles, including Vice President and Minister of Justice under President Óscar Arias Sánchez.
Chinchilla’s academic background includes a degree from the University of Costa Rica and a Master’s in Public Policy from Georgetown University. Her career encompasses extensive public service and consultancy for international organisations, focusing on judicial reform and public security.
As a keynote speaker on geopolitics, Chinchilla offers valuable insights into Latin American political dynamics, security issues, and democratic governance. Her leadership experience and academic expertise enable her to address complex geopolitical challenges effectively.
Laura Chinchilla’s extensive experience and dedication to public service make her a compelling and authoritative voice in discussions on geopolitics and international affairs.
Notable Achievements
- First Female President of Costa Rica (2010-2014): Pioneered women’s leadership in the nation.
- Vice President and Minister of Justice (2006-2008): Implemented reforms in public security and justice.
- Minister of Public Security (1996-1998): First woman to hold this position, leading initiatives against crime and violence.
- Environmental Advocacy: Recognised internationally for policies on environmental sustainability and marine biodiversity protection.
- Consultant for International Organisations: Advised entities like the Inter-American Development Bank and the United Nations Development Program on Latin American and African projects.
Key Speeches or Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_hlVCK0zBk
Angie Lau
Angie Lau is an award-winning journalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in blockchain technology. Born in Hong Kong, she moved to Canada at the age of two and later graduated from Ryerson University’s School of Journalism.
Lau began her career in journalism in Canada and the United States before returning to Hong Kong to join Bloomberg Television. There, she anchored the flagship morning show “First Up with Angie Lau,” conducting over 10,000 interviews with prominent newsmakers and business leaders.
In 2018, Lau founded Forkast.News, a digital media platform focusing on blockchain, cryptocurrency, and emerging technologies in the Asia-Pacific region. As Editor-in-Chief and CEO, she has positioned Forkast.News as a leading source of information at the intersection of technology, economy, and politics.
Lau’s extensive experience in financial journalism and her deep understanding of blockchain technology make her a compelling keynote speaker on geopolitics and international affairs. Her insights into how emerging technologies influence global economic and political landscapes provide valuable perspectives for diverse audiences.
Notable Achievements
- Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Forkast.News: Established a premier digital media platform covering blockchain and emerging technologies.
- Former Anchor at Bloomberg Television: Led the flagship morning show “First Up with Angie Lau,” broadcasting globally to 350 million households.
- Exclusive Interviews: Conducted a rare one-on-one television interview with Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing after more than a decade.
- TEDx Speaker: Delivered the talk “I Am Not Supposed to Be Here,” which was featured as a TED Ed Lesson for a global audience.
- Recognised Thought Leader: Featured in Vogue Hong Kong’s “Power of Next” issue for leadership in media covering blockchain.
Key Speeches or Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4NLbXQAeA8
Jean Dong
Jean Dong is a Chinese-Australian scholar specialising in Chinese politics and foreign policy. She serves as a Research Fellow at the Centre for Contemporary Chinese Studies at the University of Melbourne and, as of August 2024, is a Visiting Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation.
In 2023, Dong authored the monograph Chinese Statecraft in a Changing World: Demystifying Enduring Traditions and Dynamic Constraints, offering insights into China’s historical and contemporary statecraft.
Since 2016, she has contributed to the G20’s Think 20 (T20) engagement group under various presidencies, including Japan, China, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and India.
Dong’s expertise in Chinese political dynamics and Indo-Pacific geopolitics makes her a compelling keynote speaker on international affairs. Her academic work provides nuanced perspectives on China’s global strategies, essential for understanding current geopolitical shifts.
Diana Choyleva’s profound expertise and analytical acumen make her a sought-after voice in discussions on China’s role in the global economy and its geopolitical implications.
Notable Achievements
- Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne: Focuses on contemporary Chinese studies.
- Visiting Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School: Engages in research on democratic governance and innovation.
- Author of Chinese Statecraft in a Changing World: Analyses China’s statecraft traditions and constraints.
- Contributor to G20’s T20 Engagement Group: Participated in policy discussions under multiple presidencies.
- Published Articles on Geopolitical Analysis: Authored pieces such as “Reconceptualising Asia’s Security Challenges.”
Jean Dong’s scholarly contributions and active engagement in policy discussions position her as an influential voice in geopolitics and international relations.
Keynote Speeches or Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4NLbXQAeA8
Diana Choyleva
Diana Choyleva is a distinguished economist and analyst specialising in China’s economy and politics. Born in Bulgaria, she earned a degree in economics from Sofia University and later completed an MA at the University of Warwick.
After relocating to the United Kingdom, Choyleva joined Lombard Street Research, where she served as Chief Economist and Head of Research. In 2016, she founded Enodo Economics, an independent macroeconomic forecasting consultancy focused on China.
Choyleva’s extensive experience and deep understanding of China’s economic landscape make her an exceptional keynote speaker on geopolitics. Her analyses provide valuable insights into China’s global impact, offering audiences a nuanced perspective on international economic dynamics.
Notable Achievements
- Founder and Chief Economist of Enodo Economics: Established a consultancy specialising in China’s economy and its global influence.
- Senior Fellow on Chinese Economy at the Asia Society Policy Institute’s Center for China Analysis: Contributes expertise on China’s economic policies and strategies.
- Author: Co-authored “The American Phoenix – and why China and Europe will struggle after the coming slump” (2011) and “The Bill from the China Shop” (2006), analysing global economic trends.
- Media Contributor: Writes opinion pieces for prominent publications such as the Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, Foreign Policy, and Nikkei Asian Review.
- Member of the Political Economy Club: Engages with leading economists and policymakers to discuss economic issues.
Keynote Speeches or Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0B1G2ibvIc
Juliana Liu
Juliana Liu is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in international business reporting, particularly focusing on the Asia-Pacific region. Born in Changsha, Hunan province, China, she was raised in Texas and New York, and is fluent in Mandarin.
Liu graduated from Stanford University, where she began her journalism career as a reporter and editor for The Stanford Daily.
Liu’s professional journey includes significant roles at major news organisations:
- Reuters: Starting as a graduate trainee in 2001, she was based in London, Singapore, and Colombo, covering the Sri Lankan civil war. She later served as a Beijing correspondent, reporting on Chinese politics, general news, and technology.
- BBC News: From 2012 to 2017, Liu was the Hong Kong correspondent, responsible for TV, radio, and digital coverage across international and domestic programs.
- Inkstone News: As the founding editor, she led an award-winning digital magazine and newsletter focusing on China-related stories for a global millennial audience.
- Forkast News: Serving as Head of Editorial Product and Managing Editor, she contributed to Asia’s premier publication covering the cryptocurrency industry.
In 2022, Liu joined CNN International as the Asia Editor at CNN Business, leading digital coverage in the region with a focus on the global economy, markets, technology, consumer brands, and media.
Based at CNN’s Asia-Pacific headquarters in Hong Kong, she leads a team of writers and editors to bring Asia’s most dynamic business stories to life.
Liu’s expertise in global economic trends, technology, and media, combined with her leadership experience, makes her a compelling keynote speaker on geopolitics and international affairs.
Her ability to navigate complex global issues and present them in an accessible manner provides audiences with valuable insights into the interconnected world of politics and economics.
Notable Achievements
- Asia Editor at CNN Business: Leads digital coverage of the global economy and markets, technology, consumer brands, and media in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Founding Editor of Inkstone News: Established an award-winning digital magazine focusing on China-related stories for a global audience.
- Hong Kong Correspondent for BBC News: Provided comprehensive coverage across TV, radio, and digital platforms.
- Board Member of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) Asia Chapter: Actively contributes to promoting diversity and inclusion in journalism.
- President of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Hong Kong: Served as the first woman of colour elected to this position, demonstrating leadership in the journalism community.
Key Speeches or Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSnMdXIZ7yQ
KT McFarland,
Kathleen Troia “K.T.” McFarland, born on July 22, 1951, in Madison, Wisconsin, is a distinguished American government official and political commentator with extensive experience in national security and foreign policy.
She graduated from George Washington University in 1973 and earned a master’s degree from Oxford University. McFarland began her career in the 1970s as a night-shift typist and assistant press liaison for the National Security Council staff under President Richard Nixon.
She later served as an aide to National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger and held various positions in the Ford and Reagan administrations, including Senior Speechwriter to Secretary of Defence Caspar Weinberger and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence.
In 2006, she ran unsuccessfully for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat in New York. Under President Donald Trump, McFarland served as Deputy National Security Advisor from January to May 2017.
McFarland’s extensive experience in national security and foreign policy, spanning multiple administrations, makes her a compelling keynote speaker on geopolitics. Her firsthand insights into U.S. defense policies and international relations provide audiences with a nuanced understanding of global affairs.
Notable Achievements
- Drafted Key Defence Policies: Authored the Weinberger Doctrine speech on the Reagan Administration’s policy on the use of force and the initial draft of President Reagan’s Strategic Defence Initiative (“Star Wars”) speech.
- Defence Department Recognition: Received the Defence Department’s highest civilian honour for her service.
- Media Contributions: Served as a national security analyst for Fox News, providing expert commentary on foreign policy and defence issues.
- Author: Wrote the bestselling book Revolution: Trump, Washington and “We the People”, offering insights into her experiences and perspectives on U.S. politics.
Key Speeches and Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBzd1iKlHog
Sharanjit Leyl
Sharanjit Kaur Leyl, born on February 15, 1973, in Singapore, is a distinguished journalist and broadcaster with over 25 years of experience in international news. She has been a prominent presenter for BBC World News, Bloomberg Television, and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, delivering news from Asia to a global audience.
Raised in a Sikh family of Indian descent, Leyl moved to Washington, D.C., during her teenage years, where her father worked for Singapore’s Ministry of Defence. She earned a degree in journalism and English literature from the University of Maryland College Park and later completed a master’s degree in English literature at the University of British Columbia.
Leyl began her journalism career in Canada, reporting for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. She then joined Bloomberg Television in Tokyo, anchoring “On The Money Asia” and covering significant events such as the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. In 2003, she joined BBC World News, anchoring programs like Asia Business Report and Newsday from the Singapore studio, and reporting on major stories across the Asia-Pacific region.
In May 2024, Leyl was appointed Chancellor of Bath Spa University, becoming the institution’s first female Chancellor. In this role, she serves as an ambassador for the university, promoting its values and mission on local, national, and global stages.
Sharanjit Leyl’s extensive experience in journalism, combined with her academic background and leadership roles, positions her as a compelling keynote speaker on geopolitics and international affairs.
Her global perspective and deep understanding of Asian political and economic landscapes provide audiences with valuable insights into current global dynamics.
Notable Achievements
- BBC World News Anchor: Anchored programs such as Asia Business Report and Newsday, providing comprehensive coverage of business and political news from Asia.
- Documentary Producer and Presenter: Created documentaries highlighting Singapore’s culture and history, showcasing her storytelling abilities.
- International Moderator: Regularly moderates high-level debates for organisations like the United Nations and the Asian Development Bank, demonstrating her expertise in facilitating discussions on global issues.
- Chancellor of Bath Spa University: Appointed in 2024 as the university’s first female Chancellor, exemplifying her commitment to education and leadership.
Key Speeches and Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fup2SjFdXs
Mary Harrington
Mary Harrington is a British journalist and author known for her critical perspectives on contemporary feminism and societal progress. She studied English literature at the University of Oxford and attended a Steiner Waldorf school during her childhood.
Harrington has contributed to various publications, including UnHerd, where she serves as a contributing editor.
Her writings often challenge prevailing feminist narratives, advocating for what she terms “reactionary feminism,” a concept she introduced in a 2021 article and further explored in her 2023 book, Feminism Against Progress.
In Feminism Against Progress, Harrington critiques the notion of linear societal advancement, particularly in relation to women’s liberation, and examines the impact of technological and social changes on women’s lives.
Her work has sparked discussions on the implications of modern feminist movements and the complexities of gender dynamics in contemporary society. Mary Harrington’s thought-provoking analyses and willingness to challenge established norms make her a significant voice in debates on feminism and societal progress.
Notable Achievements
- Coined the Term “Reactionary Feminism”: Introduced and developed the concept, offering a critical perspective on modern feminist ideologies.
- Author of Feminism Against Progress: Published in 2023, the book challenges conventional views on progress and feminism, prompting widespread debate.
- Contributing Editor at UnHerd: Regularly contributes essays and articles that question mainstream societal and cultural narratives.
- Public Speaker and Commentator: Engages in discussions and debates on feminism, culture, and politics, providing alternative viewpoints on contemporary issues.
Key Speeches and Interviews
Embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PH8Z3ZnlBU
Final Thoughts
Leaders like Cindy Yu, Laura Chinchilla, Angie Lau, Jean Dong, Diana Choyleva, Chloe Cho, Juliana Liu, K.T. McFarland, Sharanjit Leyl, and Mary Harrington bring a wealth of expertise, diverse perspectives, and unique insights to the global stage.
These thought leaders’ contributions, rooted in deep experience and critical thought, challenge conventional narratives and inspire audiences to engage with the complexities of our interconnected world.
Amplifying these voices, we not only enrich the discourse but also pave the way for more inclusive, innovative, and effective solutions to the challenges of today and tomorrow.
For anyone seeking to understand or influence the global landscape, these women are indispensable guides and catalysts for change.
At CWG Speakers, we help connect you with thought leaders around the world for your key events.
