Silvana Koch-Mehrin is the founder and President of Women Political Leaders (WPL), a global network aimed at increasing the number and impact of women in political leadership. She has a background as Vice-President and Member of the European Parliament, and previously led a public affairs consultancy. Silvana also contributes to various leadership and advisory boards, including the Council of Women World Leaders and the European Leadership Network, and has been recognized for her influence in gender equality.