We are delighted to invite you to the NBCC International Women’s Day 2026 celebration, hosted at AkzoNobel in Amsterdam on Tuesday, 17th March 2026, 12:00 – 14:00 CET.

This year’s global theme, inspired by International Women's Day, is “Give to Gain”. The theme highlights a powerful principle: when we give, through mentorship, sponsorship, allyship, knowledge, opportunity, and advocacy, we all gain stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a more inclusive economy.

"Give to Gain" also challenges us to give forward-looking leadership: leveraging AI responsibly to accelerate gender equality, and staying steadfast in our DEI commitments amid a changing global environment. By giving courage and clarity, we gain progress and sustainable growth.

The pay gap numbers in the Netherlands (according to CBS and summarized by WOMEN Inc.) illustrate why action is needed:

• On average, women earn 10.5 % less per hour than men in the Netherlands. This is called the pay gap.
• If you correct for variables such as age, education, and years of experience, the unexplainable gap that remains—called unequal pay—is 3 % in the government and 6 % in the private sector.

These figures show that, while progress has been made, there is still work to do. This is exactly what the “Give to Gain” theme calls for.

Despite progress, gender equality remains a long-term ambition. According to the World Economic Forum, at the current rate, it could take until 2158 to reach full gender parity. “Give to Gain” calls on leaders and organisations to act now, to invest in talent, remove barriers, and create cultures where everyone can thrive.

Speakers include:

• HMA Chris Rampling, Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Karel van Oosterom, Author of "Leadership in the public sector, if only your boss had read this, and you get it"​
• Marguerite Soeteman-Reijnen, Chair of SER Topvrouwen & Non-Executive Director at Siemens and MN
• Fleurine Mijinke, Partner at Deloitte
• Lyne Biewinga, CEO at NBCC
• Natalie Oetama, Head of Global Business Services (GBS) at AkzoNobel
• Annick Boyen, Vice President Communications and Corporate Affairs Global Markets at Unilever
• Joanna Polak-Goodman, Founder at ImageTalks

During this interactive lunch session, we will explore:

• What it truly means to "Give to Gain" in leadership and business
• How sponsorship, mentorship, and allyship accelerate careers and organisational growth
• The business case for gender equality and measurable impact on performance
• Practical steps leaders can take to build inclusive, high-performing workplaces
• How cross-border collaboration between the UK and the Netherlands can drive systemic change

Join us as we celebrate achievements, share insight, and commit to meaningful action. By giving time, influence, opportunity, and support, we gain innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth.

Programme: The event will take place from 12:00 – 13:30 CET, followed by a 30-minute guided tour of the Arts Gallery Foundation.

RSVP now to secure your place. Tickets are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This event is exclusive to members. Non-members are welcome to join with a participation fee of €50.

Dress code: Business with a touch of purple.