Session: From Earth to the Moon: How Women Can Shape the Future of Tech, Space & Global Security
What happens when a woman from Romania — and Eastern Europe — helps shape humanity’s future beyond Earth? This talk blends personal experience with global vision: leading UN negotiations on space exploration, building consensus among nations, and driving cybersecurity and sustainability initiatives in critical infrastructure. Growing up in a region where resilience and adaptability are second nature, I will share lessons learned on leading under pressure, navigating male-dominated arenas, and turning complex technical challenges into opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
From the meeting rooms of Vienna to the future landing sites on the Moon, this journey is proof that no matter where you start — even in Eastern Europe — your voice can shape the future of humanity. Expect a mix of storytelling, practical strategies, and a call to action for every woman in the audience to see herself as a driver of global change — whether in space, cybersecurity, or any emerging technology.
Bio
Dr. Ulpia-Elena Botezatu is Chair of the UN COPUOS Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (2024–2026) and Co-Chair of the Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultation (ATLAC). Representing Romania and Eastern Europe in global space governance, she leads initiatives on space sustainability, cybersecurity, and innovation. A strong advocate for diversity in tech, she inspires women worldwide to take leadership roles in shaping humanity’s future — on Earth and beyond.