On the afternoon of Oct 14, in a lecture hall at China Women's University, female leaders from diverse backgrounds and generations came together to unveil a plaque, officially launching the Global Center for Women's Capacity Building.

Students of the university also attended, their faces glowing with anticipation for this new global initiative aimed at empowering women and nurturing future female leaders.

The ceremony was held as a side event of the Global Leaders' Meeting on Women, which took place in Beijing from Oct 13 to 14.

Sima Sami Bahous, under-secretary-general of the United Nations and executive director of UN Women, delivered a speech at the gathering. "Women and girls are change agents, leaders, the great engine of progress. It is up to us to clear their path so that they may all enjoy the benefits," she said.

The creation of the center also responds to discussions at the high-level meeting on how to cultivate the next generation of female leaders and equip women with the skills needed to thrive in an era defined by digital and technological advancements.