Dr. Selassie To Speak At Conference In Dubai
Dr. Dana Selassie was selected to represent United Nations Women at the prestigious International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai.
A spokesperson said, “In a significant recognition of her contributions to media, culture, and technology, Zhyon International is proud to announce that its owner and Creative Director, Dr. Dana Selassie, has been honoured with the opportunity to represent United Nations Women at the esteemed International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai. This selection places Dr. Selassie among the most influential women entrepreneurs from the Caribbean, highlighting her remarkable journey as a Bermudian media specialist, filmmaker, photographer, and cultural curator.”
“I am deeply honoured to be selected for this role, especially considering the remarkable caliber of women leaders and entrepreneurs from across the Caribbean who were also in contention. This recognition is not just about my journey as a Bermudian filmmaker, cultural curator, and entrepreneur, but it’s a testament to the collective talent and leadership we have in our region. I am humbled to be part of such an esteemed group traveling to Dubai to represent the United Nations Women, and look forward to contributing my experiences and learning from my peers,” said Dr. Selassie.
The spokesperson said, “In 2022, Dr. Dana Selassie represented Bermuda at the UN Women’s Yemanja Collaborative in Jamaica, an important leadership and networking event for women in the creative and cultural sectors. Her participation was made possible through the collaboration between the Ministry of Youth, Social Development, and Seniors, under the leadership of Honourable Minister Tinee Furbert JP MP, and the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation [BEDC] who played a key role in connecting and recommending local entrepreneurs for the programme.”
Minister Furbert elaborated on the Ministry’s commitment, stating, “During the past year, the Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors has taken intentional action in its initiatives to invest in women and to accelerate their progress. Last week I informed the House of Assembly of the ongoing work that is being undertaken by the Ministry in collaboration with UN Women and the UNDP Multi-Country office in Jamaica to progress the UN’s sustainable development goals joint programme ‘Building Back Equal’.”
She further added, “The principal vision for this joint programme is to invest in Bermuda’s micro, small, and medium-sized [MSMEs] women entrepreneurial businesses in agriculture, cultural and creative industries to empower and equip them for new growth opportunities. We are proud Dr. Dana Selassie has the opportunity to attend the International Women’s Leadership Conference in Dubai in March as it falls in line with the UN International Women’s Day theme, Invest in Women; Accelerate Progress. We are looking forward to the resources she will be able to share when she returns to Bermuda.”
The spokesperson said, “Since participating in the Yemanja Collaborative, Dr. Dana Selassie has actively enhanced her businesses through extensive training and development. She has advanced her local film and media business by integrating AI filmmaking techniques and was recently selected for the BEDC’s 2024 Enterprise Bermuda Incubator program with the formation of BUQUILA Bermuda. These steps mark significant progress in her entrepreneurial journey.
“Dr. Selassie’s innovative approach looks to combine Bermuda’s rich cultural narratives with cutting-edge AI technology, and revolutionize business strategies for women entrepreneurs to boost their efficiency and productivity. Her commitment to empowering women in business is evident in her plans to share her insights at the upcoming Mary Prince-inspired International Women’s Leadership and Entrepreneur conference in Bermuda and with the introduction of the Bermuda Black Film Weekend.
“Dr. Selassie’s current film projects include an AI microfilm titled “In Her Words: The Unheard Voice of Mary Prince,” part of the Gold Bermudian series, which showcases her dedication to bringing to light the stories of women of the African Diaspora. Her work, deeply rooted in cultural significance, aims to provide a platform for underrepresented voices and narratives.
“As she prepares for the International Women’s Leadership Conference, hosted by the renowned Ibukun Awosika, Dr. Selassie continues her education, including participation in the Tony Robbins Business Mastery program and completing certificates in AI Filmmaking and AI Marketing, ensuring she remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
“Zhyon International and the entire Bermudian community are proud to support Dr. Selassie as she continues to break barriers and inspire women around the world. For more information about Dr. Dana Selassie and her work, please email: info@zhyoninternational.com.”
I applaud the International Women’s Leadership Conference, but Dubai seems an odd place to hold such an event.