Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, an international icon, emphasized the need for unity to empower women and drive global change during her speech at the closing session of the Global Women Forum in Dubai on Wednesday.

The Indian actress underscored the significance of 'unity and collective action in advancing change for women worldwide.' She commended the forum as a platform where 'voices from diverse backgrounds unite with a common goal to inspire change, promote equality, and create opportunities for women.'

Reflecting on the summit's long-term impact, Aishwarya highlighted its role in 'driving critical conversations to initiate impactful collaborations.' She described the annual event as a powerful showcase of 'partnerships, innovation, determination, and resilience.'

In a compelling message, she stated, 'When individuals from diverse cultures, industries, and walks of life come together, we not only amplify each other's insights but also create a force of change, that which is unstoppable, a testament to the power of collective action.'

The former Miss World also spoke about her personal belief in the importance of giving back to society. 'Life is a blessing that is meant to be shared. It is this belief that transcends individual success to give back to society. To advocate for those without a voice and to make meaningful, significant differences for people in need.'

She also reflected on her philanthropic efforts, emphasizing that true philanthropy 'begins with empathy, with the intention to help, the willingness to listen, and the courage to act. Every little initiative counts.'

Over the years, Aishwarya has advocated for several causes, including the Eye Bank Association of India, where she highlighted the life-changing impact of organ donation. 'An individual’s decision to give the gift of eyesight once they have passed on could illuminate another’s life forever. Simple, effective and transformative.'

Another cause close to her heart is her long-standing association with Smile Train, a global organization that provides free cleft surgeries to children in need. She also emphasized her advocacy as a UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador, calling for greater empathy and support for women and children affected by HIV.

She said, 'As a UNAIDS goodwill ambassador, I lent my voice to primarily advocate for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, an area where significant strides have been made. This course resonates deeply within me as a mother as it directly impacts the lives of women and children. Every child has the right to be born free of HIV. UNAIDS has been working tirelessly to achieve its vital goal of zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths by 2030, a vision that continues to inspire hope and action across the globe.'

Despite the overwhelming challenges the world faces—such as climate change, healthcare crises, and social inequality—Aishwarya remains hopeful. 'Our children must recognise that compassion and empathy are vital to experiencing an ideal way of life. The world faces unprecedented challenges, whether it's climate change, healthcare crisis or social inequality, but amidst these challenges, there will always be opportunity, and we must seize it. We are all agents of change. We must know it, embrace it and act upon it,' she added.

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