Women's Journal — Health, Beauty, Fitness & Lifestyle
Cartier Women’s Initiative Marks Two Decades of Empowering Founders
Cartier Women’s Initiative reached a major milestone in 2026 as the global entrepreneurship program recognized 30 new fellows during its annual awards ceremony in Bangkok, Thailand. The anniversary event also marked 20 years since the initiative was launched, with organizers reporting that more than 330 women entrepreneurs from 67 countries have received support through the program since 2006. The annual gathering brought together fellows, business leaders, investors, members of the international entrepreneurship community, and representatives from Cartier to celebrate the newest cohort of award recipients. The selected fellows represent businesses working across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, technology, climate solutions, financial inclusion, and sustainable consumer products. The Cartier Women’s Initiative was established in 2006 to recognize women entrepreneurs leading businesses designed to generate positive social and environmental impact alongside financial sustainability. Each year, applicants from around the world compete for a place in the fellowship, with selected entrepreneurs receiving financial support, executive coaching, leadership development, peer networking opportunities, and access to an international community of founders and business experts. Cartier Women’s Initiative Expands Global Entrepreneur Network The 2026 awards ceremony in Bangkok introduced 30 new fellows chosen through a competitive international selection process. The entrepreneurs represent
Study Finds Heart Health Risks Rise During Perimenopause
Perimenopause heart health concerns are receiving renewed attention after researchers identified evidence that cardiovascular changes in women may begin earlier than many physicians previously recognized. The findings emerged from a large-scale study examining metabolic and vascular indicators among women transitioning into menopause, with researchers observing measurable shifts in cholesterol, blood sugar regulation, and blood vessel function during the perimenopausal stage. The study focused on women who had not yet reached menopause but were already experiencing hormonal fluctuations associated with the transition period. Researchers analyzed cardiovascular markers over time and found that several risk indicators linked to heart disease appeared before menopause officially began. The findings are prompting additional discussion among medical professionals about earlier screening and preventive care strategies for women entering midlife. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among women globally. While menopause has long been associated with increased cardiovascular risk, the latest findings suggest the biological changes contributing to that risk may start years earlier than previously emphasized in clinical practice. Researchers involved in the study examined how shifting estrogen levels during perimenopause may influence vascular function, inflammation, and metabolic health. The research adds to a growing body of evidence connecting hormonal changes to
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LIFESTYLE
Women-Only Spaces in Chengdu are Redefining Community
In Chengdu, a city known for teahouses, bookstores, food streets, and a slower pace than China’s largest commercial centers, a quieter social shift is drawing attention. Women-only spaces are becoming part of the city’s cultural map, offering places where women can read, gather, talk, work, relax, and socialize with fewer pressures tied to mixed public settings. The movement is not built around one venue or one business model. It can be seen in bookstores, bars, organized workshops, social clubs, gyms, hostels, and small gathering spaces. Some operate as clearly defined women-only locations. Others host women-focused events, reading groups, salons, or workshops that give attendees a more controlled and comfortable setting. What makes Chengdu stand out is the way these spaces appear to fit into the city’s wider personality. Chengdu has a reputation for leisure, community life, food culture, and independent creative venues. Against that backdrop, women-only spaces have found an audience among residents looking for safety, ease, and friendship in everyday settings rather than formal institutions. Public reporting has highlighted several Chengdu-based examples, including Laishuxia, a women-centered bookstore run by Shen Shen; Rearview Mirror, a women-only bar opened by Zhang Wenjia; and GiCD, or Girls in Chengdu, a group founded
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