Event Summary: Moments That Mattered – An Evening with Women Diplomats

The International Professional Women’s Society (IPWS) hosted “Moments That Mattered: An Evening with Women Diplomats,” an inspiring evening featuring two distinguished guests: Ms. Sachi Claringbould, Deputy Consul-General of the Netherlands in Shanghai, and Ms. Katarzyna Bralczyk, Consul and Head of Economic, Cultural & Public Diplomacy at the Polish Consulate in Shanghai. The discussion was moderated by Xixi Wang, IPWS Partnerships Executive and Founder of CUE.

With decades of combined experience across international law, multilateral negotiations, cultural diplomacy, public policy, and global cooperation, the speakers brought depth and breadth to a conversation centered on the defining moments that shape diplomatic careers.

Entering the World of Diplomacy

The evening began with a reflection on how diplomatic careers often develop not through a single decision but through a series of small influences – teachers who encouraged curiosity, family members who opened unexpected doors, and early professional experiences that gradually nudged each speaker toward international work. Their journeys demonstrated that diplomacy is rarely a straight line, but rather a path built on openness, adaptability, and the willingness to step into new environments.

Moments That Make an Impact

Rather than focusing on specific assignments, the speakers shared how certain early responsibilities revealed the weight of diplomatic work. These were moments when the abstract became tangible – when the impact of negotiations, legal frameworks, or multilateral cooperation became undeniably real. These experiences highlighted a shared understanding: diplomacy quietly shapes people’s lives in ways that extend far beyond conference rooms.

The Art of Negotiation

A lighter theme explored the subtlety required in diplomatic communication. The discussion touched on the creative, thoughtful, and sometimes humorous ways “no” can be expressed without closing doors. Whether through strategic silence, gentle redirection, or leaving space for others to feel ownership, the message was clear: diplomacy often succeeds not through force, but through finesse.

Mentorship and Personal Growth

Both speakers emphasized the role of mentorship in shaping their identities as diplomats. They acknowledged the importance of women who challenged them, supported them, and helped refine their sense of self-mentors who demonstrated that leadership can be both strong and vulnerable, decisive and reflective. These relationships served as reminders that diplomacy is sustained not only by skill but also by community.

Letters to Their Younger Selves

When asked what they would tell themselves at the start of their careers, themes of balance, self-awareness, and authenticity emerged. The advice was not about perfection but about permission- permission to explore, to make choices that align with one’s values, and to care for oneself amid demanding responsibilities.

Women Reshaping Diplomacy

The panel reflected on the evolving presence of women within diplomatic spaces. Their perspectives pointed to a shift toward more collaborative, less ego-driven environments and a broader appreciation of diverse viewpoints. While challenges remain, the speakers expressed optimism that this generation of women diplomats is contributing to a more inclusive, balanced, and effective approach to international relations.

Audience Q&A: Practical Wisdom

During the Q&A, audience members explored topics such as negotiating strategies, navigating bias, cultivating resilience, and maintaining balance while serving abroad. The speakers shared practical advice- build strong networks, trust your team, address inappropriate behavior when it arises, and seek support systems that allow for both professional dedication and personal wellbeing.

As a small surprise and in the spirit of cross-cultural exchange, the evening concluded with a thoughtful gesture from translator and author Ms. Yu Shi. Having translated Bieguni by Polish Nobel laureate Olga Tokarczuk and De Avond Is Ongemak by Dutch International Booker Prize winner Marieke Lucas Rijneveld, she presented the two guests with the Chinese editions of her translated works.

Closing Reflection

Moments That Mattered delivered a thoughtful and uplifting exploration of what it means to build a diplomatic life. The evening highlighted that diplomacy is shaped not only by global events but also by inner resilience, quiet realizations, strong mentorship, and the courage to grow.