First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska took part in the Forbes 30/50 Summit, which is taking place in Abu Dhabi (UAE). The event brought together prominent representatives of politics, business and non-governmental organizations to exchange information and forge connections for the sake of joint work and leadership development.
The President's wife took part in a panel discussion on women's leadership. The discussion was also joined by Billie Jean King, an athlete and fighter for equal rights, and Gloria Steinem, a journalist and activist. The event was moderated by Hillary Rodham Clinton, former Secretary of State, First Lady of the United States, lawyer, writer, activist, and Mika Brzezinski, American journalist, co-host of the popular MSNBC television program Morning Joe.
"It is crucial that we remember not only on this day, but at all times, that equality is a fundamental right and not a privilege. For me, to talk about equality now is to talk about normalcy. The only thing that’s left is to ensure that it becomes normal for everyone in the world," Olena Zelenska said.
She described how life in Ukraine and the activities of the First Lady have changed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.
"The whole country lives in the mode of “doing the best we can in our place”. Work keeps you from breaking down. It structures the chaos of war. Work is a foothold, especially when you see the results. My work has also changed a lot. We had to move from the development projects we were engaged in before the war to the fight for the survival of Ukrainians in the literal sense," the First Lady said.
In addition, at a special gala evening, Olena Zelenska received the Torch of Freedom award. It was presented by Hillary Rodham Clinton. Olena Zelenska dedicated the award to all Ukrainian women.
"The women's feat in this confrontation is special as it is multifaceted: women are making their contribution everywhere - from serving in the army to evacuations, from the rear to the front. And the only thing I wish is that with our victory, those who are far away will be able to return as soon as possible, those who are at risk will survive, the wounded and injured will recover and regain their strength, and separated families will be able to hug each other again and not be separated anymore. You are the torch of our freedom. You are Ukraine. Thank you for everything," the First Lady said in her social media message.