BPW (Business and Professional Women of Estonia) Estonia – Empowering Women, Elevating Leadership
Founded on 11 November 1992, BPW Estonia (Business and Professional Women Estonia) is a non-profit organization dedicated to unlocking the potential of women in professional, business, and leadership roles. Through mentoring, networking, skill-building, advocacy, and dynamic empowerment projects, BPW Estonia actively shapes a future where women lead with confidence, competence, and courage—locally, nationally, and globally.
As part of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW International)—established in 1930 in Geneva, Switzerland—BPW Estonia proudly connects to a global network of trailblazing women in over 100 countries. Recognized by the United Nations since 1947 and the Council of Europe since 1977, BPW International stands as a force for change, especially in Europe, home to nearly 20,000 members across 30 countries.
BPW Estonia unites nearly 200 passionate members across eleven clubs, representing diverse regions of the country. These women are innovators, leaders, mentors, and changemakers, committed to building a society where gender equality is not just an ideal but a lived reality.
The organization’s mission is bold and clear:
– Empower women to rise to leadership positions in all areas of society.
– Advocate fiercely for equal opportunities and close the Gender Pay Gap.
– Ignite entrepreneurial spirit among women through targeted initiatives and supportive networks.
Our Founders —visionary women who laid the cornerstone of this movement—include:
Leena Blum, Anne Hallika, Pille Heideman, Karin Juhat, Hille Karm, Liis Klaar, Hilja Kuusk, Maie Oblikas, Riina Kütt, Sirje Küttis, Reet Laja, Katrin Leis, Malle Lind, Maila Mikk, Marge Mägi, Tiiu Ots, Vaike Protten, Helve Remmelgas, Helle Tiismus, Eve Uljas, Virve Viljus, Anne Väin, Ludmilla Tsirel. We proudly honor and continue their legacy.
Traditions that Inspire
A cherished tradition within BPW Estonia is the annual recognition of the Woman of the Year—a tribute to women who have made exceptional contributions to society, both socially and professionally. By celebrating these role models, we underscore the powerful impact of women in shaping Estonia’s future and inspire the next generation of female leaders.
Together, we lead. Together, we are in the first row – we are BPW Estonia.