How are you personally contributing towards providing equal opportunities to members of your team? What makes the biggest difference?

I focus on creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard, valued and challenged to grow. This means being intentional about fair workload distribution, equal access to development opportunities and transparent decision-making. The biggest difference comes from actively listening, mentoring and advocating for team members—especially when they may not yet feel confident advocating for themselves.

What advice would you offer to the next generation of female leaders?

Believe in your abilities, even before others do. Don’t wait to feel “ready” before stepping forward—growth happens through experience. Seek mentors, build strong networks, and don’t be afraid to use your voice. Most importantly, define success on your own terms and support other women along the way.

Which women have inspired you the most professionally and personally? How?

I’m inspired by Michelle Obama for her ability to empower others through her voice, values and authenticity and for the way she leads with grace, confidence and purpose while uplifting women and girls around the world. On a personal level, my greatest inspiration is my mother—a woman of extraordinary resilience, unwavering strength and deep empathy. No matter the challenges she faced, she never gave up and always remained true to her values. She leads by example, with quiet courage, integrity and compassion, and her strength has shaped not only who I am, but how I lead and support others every day. I’m also inspired by mentors and colleagues who reflect these same qualities and continue to raise the bar.

What kind of a role model do you aspire to be?

I aspire to be a role model who leads with empathy, fairness and consistency. Someone who empowers others to grow, leads by example and creates a safe space for open dialogue. I want to be known as someone who supports, challenges and uplifts others while staying true to my values.

What message would you like to share on the occasion of International Women’s Day? What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a reminder—celebrating the achievements of women while acknowledging the work still needed to achieve true equality. It means recognising progress, amplifying women’s voices, and committing to action, not just words. My message is simple: support one another, challenge bias, and continue to push for meaningful change.

What does “great leadership” mean to you? What key traits do you value the most?

Great leadership is about inspiring trust, empowering others and leading with purpose. The key traits I value most are integrity, empathy, accountability and the ability to adapt. A great leader listens, communicates clearly and creates an environment where people can perform at their best.

A great leader listens, communicates clearly and creates an environment where people can perform at their best.

Learn, explore and unleash your inner chef.

Marcus Evans Women Leaders Talk

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Christina Lignos

Position: Event Director EMEA & APAC, Summit Division

Location: Nicosia

Years at Marcus Evans: 19 years 

For more information, please contact: Sarin Kouyoumdjian-Gurunlian press@marcusevanscy.com

Click here to access the Women Leaders Talk interview series