IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings 2026 | IMF Headquarters

One of the most meaningful moments of the IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings 2026 did not happen on a formal stage. It happened in a brief and unexpected conversation with Natia Turnava, President of the National Bank of Georgia (NBG).

In the midst of a high-level environment filled with global finance leaders, policymakers, and seasoned professionals, Governor Turnava took a moment to offer me practical advice on public speaking and confidence. Her guidance was clear, direct, and immediately actionable—a simple to-do list that gave me renewed courage to step forward and embrace discomfort as part of growth.

It reminded me that excellence often requires both courage and humility. Sometimes, we must lower ourselves to learn in order to rise. There is power in asking questions, seeking wisdom, and being proactive enough to learn from those already operating at a high level in the areas we hope to grow.

Although we come from different countries, cultures, and professional paths, we shared a common objective: how to communicate effectively and deliver messages that matter. In that moment, titles, geography, and status became secondary to a universal goal—impactful communication in service of our communities.

What struck me most was the combination of two forces: the humility to recognize expertise, and the generosity of a leader willing to share it with someone she had never met. When these qualities come together, they create the foundations of progress. This principle is equally relevant in peacebuilding, mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution, where listening, knowledge-sharing, and mutual respect often open doors that force cannot.

This unplanned teaching moment between a Georgian financial leader and a Gabonese peacebuilding and communications professional was a reminder that dialogue can transcend regional and cultural boundaries—especially at a time when many parts of the world feel divided. Even brief exchanges grounded in goodwill can build trust across differences.

It was also a powerful example of women empowering women. Regardless of race, nationality, or social status, Governor Turnava chose to invest her time in encouraging another woman. In doing so, she demonstrated the enduring value of mentorship with no conditions attached.

Georgia and Gabon may not frequently appear in the same geopolitical conversation, yet moments like these reveal how diplomacy can also happen person to person. Human connection often precedes institutional connection. Sometimes relationships between nations begin simply through respectful dialogue between citizens and leaders.

I am deeply grateful for her time—and even more grateful that I was able to apply her advice immediately. The results were evident. Experiences like this reaffirm why I remain committed to the advancement of African women: to pass forward the encouragement, access, and confidence that others have shared with me.

My takeaway is simple: the future can still be bright. In a divided world, kindness, mentorship, and dialogue remain powerful tools for building and maintaining peace.

Governor Natia Turnava’s article here

Naïde Pavelly Obiang
Author | Cultural Communication | Peacebuilding | Diaspora Empowerment