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Redefining inclusion in CGT
The Women in Advanced Therapies (WIAT) Congress at Advanced Therapies Week 2026 is a dedicated forum for building inclusive leadership, advancing mentorship, and closing gaps in research, investment, and healthcare. Through open dialogue and inspiring role models, WIAT empowers leaders, early-career professionals, and allies to drive diversity and shape the future of cell and gene therapy.
Add this Congress to your ticket
*Add the WIAT Congress to your Advanced Therapies Week ticket for $99 at checkout.
WIAT Congress 2026 Agenda
This agenda is still in development. All sessions and timings are subject to regular change at this time.
12:30 PM
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LunchIndigo Ballroom, Hilton Bayfront Hotel60 minsLunch: Investment Summit, Founders Forum and WIAT
01:30 PM
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Room D5 mins
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01:35 PM
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Room D25 mins
02:00 PM
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Room D30 mins
- How representation in leadership impacts innovation, culture, and organisational performance
- The role of male allies in accelerating gender equity and creating systemic, long-term change
- Practical pathways for companies to improve representation across scientific, technical, and executive roles
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02:30 PM
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Room D30 minsSpotlight: Discover strategies to address disparities in women’s health research, clinical trials, and access to care. Learn how policy, advocacy, and industry engagement can advance equity in health outcomes.
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03:00 PM
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Room D30 mins
03:30 PM
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Explore how to build, maintain and leverage networks and mentorships to advance careers and influence your industry.
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Share approaches to recognise and overcome self-doubt while thriving in male-dominated spaces.
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Discuss how empathy, intuition and people skills can be leveraged as leadership strengths.
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Room D60 minsRoubdtable: Learn how to intentionally assemble a trusted group of mentors, sponsors and peers who can provide strategic guidance, advocacy and perspective at different stages of your career.
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Explore strategies for securing funding, support and recognition for women-led initiatives.
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Explore strategies to close gaps in research, clinical trials and healthcare access for women
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Looking at your interactions through the lens of an observer
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Explore how to lead with confidence and clarity in uncertain, fast-moving environments by making informed decisions, aligning teams, and embracing experimentation.
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Examine how organisations can adopt AI responsibly while balancing regulatory compliance, ethical considerations and inclusive, human-centred decision-making.
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Room D60 minsRoundtable: Discuss practical approaches to communicating effectively across cultures, geographies and perspectives to build trust, avoid misalignment and lead more inclusive teams
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Room D60 minsRoundtabe: TBC
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What You’ll Take Away from the WIAT Congress
This isn’t a side session — it’s a cornerstone of the week, built to empower meaningful change. At WIAT 2026, you’ll gain practical strategies, fresh insights, and the support of a powerful network of peers and mentors.
WIAT Congress key takeaways
Walk away with the confidence, community, and resources to lead, support, and advocate for progress in advanced therapies:
- Practical strategies for building inclusive leadership and authentic allyship
- Scientific deep-dives into the role of sex-based differences in cell and gene therapy research
- Mentorship frameworks to help navigate and accelerate careers
- Real-world perspectives on the gender gap in clinical development and commercialization
- Investor engagement and fundraising insights tailored for female founders and leaders
What to expect on the day
Hosted on Day 1 of Advanced Therapies Week, Monday, February 9, the WIAT Congress provides a dedicated forum for reflection, dialogue, and empowerment. Whether you’re an established leader, an early-career professional, or an ally, you’ll leave with new perspectives, and expanded networks.
Roundtable discussions
Collaborate in peer-led sessions tackling topics such as inclusive leadership, mentorship, and overcoming investment barriers.
Inspiring role models
Learn from women shaping the future of advanced therapies, from pioneering scientists to industry trailblazers and policy advocates.
Want a preview of the Advanced Therapies Week attendees?
See who was in the room in 2025 and the organizations leading the way in advanced therapies.
Download the 2025 attendee list
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