As the clock ticked closer to 4 p.m. on the first Thursday of 2026, AWiBers and guests poured through the gates of Hilton in waves, hyped for what’s coming. Women from diverse professional backgrounds gathered with a shared purpose: to unpack Agency in leadership through a highly interactive World Café- style experience. After moments of intentional networking, participants were led to the main hall where each table was hosted by a World Café Lead, ready to guide discussions around three core questions that would shape the evening.

Bethlehem Hailu, AWiB project manager, gathered the attention of the audience and showcased a short video that presented the journey through AWiB’s 2025. It highlighted AWiB’s programs, events, activities, articles, webinars and writing published over the year. Bethlehem also encouraged the many non-members in the room to officially join the community. She then invited two members to promote their products and services: Mahlet Lulseged of Haymani Farming and Yodit Gidey of Wazema Bazar.

Dr. Bethelhem Birhanu, AWiB’s 2025 Board Secretary, was then invited to the stage but she didn’t stay there for long she walked into the crowd. She immediately shifted the energy in the room. She threw unexpected questions at the audience playfully and what began as a surprise quickly turned into curiosity. Through this theatrical and immersive approach, Dr. Bethelhem introduced the concept of “Agency in Leadership.” She unpacked agency as the capacity and willingness to make decisions, take initiative, and influence one’s own autonomy. The room was alive and the conversation was no longer theoretical; it was felt, lived, and fully in motion.

There were three questions to discuss throughout the evening:

1. Do you usually take action within your environment when you notice a gap that others seem to overlook? If yes, what response do you experience from others, and if not, what holds you back?

As participants openly shared their perspectives, clear patterns emerged. Three familiar groups took shape: those who speak up, those who observe situations and predict outcomes before speaking, and those who choose silence. Many women shared that they are more likely to speak up in professional settings to help or empower others, yet find it much harder to do so with relatives and within social circles.

Strong convictions surfaced “If I see injustice, I cannot keep quiet,” but some admitted, “If the impact is low, I would stay quiet,” revealing how easily injustice is weighed in our daily lives. Some shared that they never speak up with family or relatives, despite witnessing unfairness because in those situations’ relationships seem too fragile and boundaries too blur.

In the workplace, speaking up brought both opportunity and risk. On one side, participants experienced support, encouragement, and tangible changes within systems. On the other, some faced emotional backlash, labeling, or even the risk of losing their jobs. In social settings, many held back to avoid conflict, out of fear of judgment, or in search of acceptance. Some mentioned that they felt their voice was not enough to create impact. But several participants shared real-life experiences where their direct influence led to positive change. Yet the risks were named just as clearly: exclusion, opposition, and becoming the topic of gossip.

After a quick summary by the facilitators participants were asked to disperse and form new groups to be ready for the next question.

2. Share an example of a moment when you chose to speak up despite discomfort, and later felt proud of the outcome of the decision you influenced.

AWiBers and guests openly shared stories of persistence and responsibility… moments that truly “changed the game.” From proposing solution-oriented ideas in the workplace, resolving family conflicts, and creating pathways for those who came after them, to making choices that even risked their freedom, these acts of courage led to recognition and real impact.

Many spoke of challenging systems that were not beneficial, advocating for those who could not speak for themselves, and standing up against unfairness – actions that became deep sources of pride. At the same time, participants emphasized the importance of thoughtful and deliberate decision-making, ensuring that momentary actions would not compromise long-term outcomes.

Not every story highlighted positive change, some also shared experiences of discomfort, pushback, or even resignations. By choosing to speak up, participants were able to set boundaries, create structure where there was none before, and hold their ground but also face resistance from colleagues and employers. The reflection circled back to a shared truth: agency in leadership shall be exercised by making proactive choices and taking accountability.

Then came the third and final question for the evening, after a final reshuffling of the groups.

3.  What do you believe AWiBers can do in the coming year to transform their potential into tangible results and create meaningful impact across the collective?

You could feel the room shift as participants leaned in, eager to reflect, share experiences, and design strategies for exercising their agency in leadership. They highlighted clarifying individual potential, staying consistent, focusing on impact, and strengthening execution. Intentional matchmaking to maximize networking, continuous learning, and applying essential life skills were emphasized. They spoke passionately about accountability, leading by example, increasing visibility, seeking opportunities, and supporting others. Finally, they committed to deep self-reflection, recognizing it as the foundation for intentional leadership that transforms potential into tangible, meaningful impact.

In conclusion, the facilitators offered a summary, encouraging everyone to continue using their agency in leadership in their everyday lives and that the impact of us voicing our thoughts and insights can go a long way. They also encouraged everyone to keep reflecting on the topic. The evening closed with a hopeful note-that, like last year, the coming year will be filled with learning, connection, and creativity.  As the evening closed, the audience slowly walked out with a spark in the eyes of many that showed they left with more than they arrived with.

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