28 March 2023, SINGAPORE - The recent 'Women of the Year' awards in Monaco saw Singapore's very own Leanne Robers recognised for her contribution to the tech industry. Held on 24th March, this year's event celebrated the theme of "The Global and Transversal Impact of Digitalisation and Technology in Society', and was graced by their Serene Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco.

Sponsored by the Wallgreens Boots Alliance, the ceremony honoured three remarkable women entrepreneurs who have made a significant contribution in their industries through their innovative use of technology. In recognition of her achievements and contributions, Singapore's Leanne Robers, the founder of 'She Loves Tech' was presented with a special award in honour of celebrating her career dedicated to supporting women-led and women-impact tech startups. Other winners were Associate Professor Zimi Zawacha from Italy who was awarded the Monte-Carlo 'Woman of the Year' 2023, and Manila Di Giovanni from Monaco, the world's youngest female tech CEO, who received the Prix Monte-Carlo 'Woman of the Year'.

'It was an incredible opportunity to speak at the Monaco Women Forum and share the 'She Loves Tech' story with everyone. I did not expect to win the 'Monte Carlo Woman of the Year' special Award, which was such a surprise and an honour! I met so many inspiring women here, including Princess Charlene, whom I had the pleasure of sitting next to during the gala dinner. We exchanged stories about the projects we are involved in and the impact we are excited about creating globally. The hospitality shown by everyone in Monaco has been wonderful and the principality will always be special place for me.' said Robers. 'She Loves Tech' has been on a mission to create a supportive ecosystem for female innovators by organising the world's largest startup competition and accelerator program dedicated to women-led and women-impact tech startups. To date, they have raised over USD$300M in funding since its inception in 2015.

During the ceremony, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, the honorary presidents of the awards, had the pleasure of meeting the laureates and learning about their remarkable career journeys. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Cinzia Sgambati-Colman, the president, and founder of the awards, Ornella Barra, the Chief Operating Officer-International for Walgreens Boots Alliance, and several officials of the Principality. Rober's trophy was specifically created by renowned Monegasque artist Beli Bussotti, and all the laureates were also gifted with bracelets by Cartier. 

The Monaco Women's Forum brought together experts to discuss how digitalisation and technology can accelerate the transition to a green economy and a near-zero cost society. With a focus on cyber security, health technology, finance and digital assets, and a virtual economy for smart city development, the event provided valuable insights into the impact of digitalisation. The panel discussion was moderated by Ms Maria Betti, Head of the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories, and included speakers such as Robers, who highlighted the difficulties women face when entering the technology industry and shared her dedication to promoting equal access and opportunities for women in technology. Other panelists included; 

• Domitilla Benigni, CEO & COO Elettronica, President of Cy4Gate (cyber-security), President of Women 4cyber
• Maria-Teresa Minotti, Director of PayPal, Italy
• Dr. Veronica Iacovacci, bio-robotics Institute Sant'Anna, Italy
• Manila di Giovanni, Founder and Director of DWorld, Monaco
• Laurent Marochini, Head of Innovation, Société́ Générale, Luxembourg

This year's honour committee included five distinguished individuals from Monaco including the Minister of State, Pierre Dartout; the President of the National Council, Brigitte Boccone Pages; the Head of Cabinet of the Minister of State, Laurence Garino; the High Commissioner for the Protection of Human Rights Monaco, Marine Ceyssac; and the President of the Economic, Social, and Environmental Council, Caroline Rougaignon-Vernin.

To download high resolution photographs, please click here.

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About 'The Monte-Carlo Woman of the Year Award'

The Monte-Carlo Woman of the Year Award celebrates exceptional women who have made significant accomplishments in their everyday lives and careers, regardless of their fame or recognition. It recognises women who have utilised their skills and activities to achieve remarkable goals anonymously, both in their personal and professional lives. Conceived by the multi-faceted Cinzia Sgambati-Colman, who is the president and founder of the “Woman of the Year, Monte Carlo Award”, this honours embodies the spirit of women who strive for balance in all aspects of their lives. With the High Patronage of S.A.S. Prince Albert II of Monaco and the Honorary Presidency of S.A.S. Princess Charlene, this international award is a symbol of the power of women and their accomplishments in all fields. To learn more, visit https://www.prixmontecarlofda.com

About 'Visit Monaco'

The Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Authority is an office of the Prince's Government attached to the Ministry of Finance and Economy. Its primary role is to promote the destination, ensuring a high number of tourist visitors throughout the year.

Working closely with all tourism, economic and cultural stakeholders in the Principality, the Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Authority undertakes numerous actions in order to fully accomplish its goals. Its promotional work is organised around three strands: 

• The Convention Bureau and Leisure Travel & Sales Departments lead professional networks in conjunction with the promotional offices abroad; 
• The Marketing Division rolls out campaigns and forges partnerships in accordance with the needs of each priority market depending on the targets and countries; 
• The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Unit works to ensure that Monaco thinks and acts in a fairer and more sustainable way as it continues to create a responsible destination.

Destination Monaco strives to enable visitors from all over the world to enjoy lots of absolutely unforgettable experiences at the heart of a destination like no other.  For more information, visit www.visitmonaco.com 

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