International Women's Month 2026
March 5, 2026
Celebrate the impact that international women have on our region and our world.
The International Newcomer Experience: As Told by Her
Join us for a conversation with women from Cleveland’s newcomer communities as they share their journeys — reflecting on what they’ve overcome, the biases they’ve faced, and the hope that carries them forward. The event includes a networking hour, so come prepared with business cards! Due to the generosity of our donors, this event is complimentary for all. Together, we’ll explore what belonging means and what can make Cleveland a more welcoming city to women everywhere.
Event Details
Panel and Networking Event
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Time: Networking: 9:00 – 9:45 AM | Program: 9:45 – 11:00 AM
Place: Cleveland Public Library – Louis Stokes Wing Auditorium
Cost: FREE – Registration Required
Meet The Panelists
More soon to come!
Neema David (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Neema David is a dynamic community advocate, mentor, and emerging leader whose journey reflects resilience, purpose, and the power of possibility. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Neema spent three years in a Ugandan refugee camp before immigrating to the United States in 2016. She proudly calls Cleveland, Ohio her home, a city that shaped her growth, her confidence, and her commitment to uplifting others.
After arriving in Cleveland, Neema started her education at Joseph M Gallagher Middle School, Then went to John Marshall High School, and later Cleveland State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Communication. Her academic and personal journey ignited a passion for youth empowerment, educational access, and helping young people believe in their own potential.
Neema has served as a mentor, tutor, and student success leader through various youth-centered organizations, most recently through her impactful work with City Year Cleveland. She now continues her mission as a Career Coach Specialist, supporting young people as they prepare for college, careers, and the future they envision.
Beyond her professional roles, Neema is a voice for immigrant people, a storyteller, and a champion of hope. Her lived experience fuels her desire to inspire young girls especially those who come from challenging beginnings to dream boldly, lead confidently, and trust that their story matters. Today, Neema stands as a proud Congolese American woman, a first-generation graduate, and a rising leader dedicated to service, empowerment, and community transformation.
Danna Higuera (Colombia)
Danna J. Higuera Varon is a Colombian licensed attorney who moved to the United States on June, 2024, seeking to reunite with her family after they fled Colombia due to regional violence.
In Colombia she worked in environmental projects as a consultant in a NPO and now in the United States she has been working with Sus Abogados Latinos in her new discovered passion for Immigration Law. She recently was accepted to Case Western Reserve University for the LL.M. In Global Studies with the goal of sitting for the Bar Examination to be able to represent the immigrant community as a licensed attorney in the United States.
Maryana Rybay (Ukraine)
Sponsor this International Women's Month Conversation
Sponsor Global Cleveland’s International Women’s Month Panel Discussion and align your organization with powerful storytelling, community connection, and women-led leadership in Cleveland. Your support keeps this event free and accessible while giving your brand meaningful visibility with civic, business, and community leaders. Together, we’re helping build a more welcoming city for women everywhere.
