A blogpost from Greta Böske, Start-up Coach at REACH – EUREGIO Start-up Center
Connecting, learning, and growing together – that was the vibe at this year’s Women’s* Empowerment Convention (W*EC) in Münster. Under the theme “Let’s Grow Together,” around 200 participants came together: entrepreneurs, researchers, students, and professionals, all sharing a commitment to equity in careers and start-ups.
The annual W*EC is all about fostering an environment of open dialogue, curiosity and mutual support. It’s a place to share experiences, try out new perspectives, and build networks that actually empower people. That mission lines up perfectly with NatAlli: helping well-educated Ukrainian women explore their entrepreneurial potential or make an impact as innovators in organizations.
Two of NatAlli’s project partners – the University of Münster and FH Münster – played a key role in organising the event. With every W*EC they ensure a diverse, engaging program and prove how closely NatAlli is connected to a bigger ecosystem of entrepreneurship, research, and social impact.
At our NatAlli stand, we had many great conversations. Visitors were particularly interested in finding out how the NatAlli Community Platform works – connecting mentees with experienced mentors who can guide, inspire, and offer long-term support. Several participants even expressed interest in becoming mentors or mentees themselves or signed up during the event. Moments like this make it clear: many people are open to support each other and build stronger professional networks.
The international mix of attendees added another layer of energy. Different backgrounds and experiences sparked fresh ideas and reinforced the importance of cross-border exchange – something central to NatAlli. Conversations ranged from practical advice on career moves and networking to broader discussions about empowerment and systemic change.
The W*EC was more than an opportunity to present NatAlli – it was a space to connect, exchange ideas, and grow alongside a community that truly values collaboration. The conversations and encounters we experienced there continue to shape how we develop the project and its outcomes. They also highlight what makes NatAlli so powerful: its ability to bring together diverse perspectives, experiences, and people who are willing to support each other.
NatAlli aims to build an international ecosystem in which women can grow, contribute, and actively shape the future. The Women’s* Empowerment Convention 2026 showed once again that this vision becomes strongest when it is shared – and when collaboration turns ideas into real impact.
Photo credit: REACH – EUREGIO Start-up Centre/Isil Dohnke