Bett Asia announces Dr Noeleen Heyzer as keynote speaker for 2026

Bett Asia is delighted to announce that Dr Noeleen Heyzer, one of Asia’s most influential global leaders and former United Nations Under-Secretary-General, will join the Bett Asia stage as a keynote speaker.

A globally respected social scientist, diplomat and public intellectual, Dr Heyzer has spent decades shaping international conversations around sustainable development, peacebuilding, inclusion and leadership. Throughout her distinguished career, she has worked alongside heads of state, Nobel laureates and grassroots leaders to tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges.

As the first woman to lead the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) since its founding in 1947, Dr Heyzer guided the region through the global food, fuel, financial and climate crises, while championing regional cooperation, sustainable growth and inclusive prosperity. Earlier, as Executive Director of UNIFEM, she played a pivotal role in advancing women's rights globally and was instrumental in securing the landmark UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.

At Bett Asia, Dr Heyzer will share her unique perspective on leadership in an era defined by Artificial Intelligence, inclusive initiatives, geopolitical uncertainty and rapid technological transformation. Drawing on a lifetime of experience at the highest levels of international diplomacy and governance, she will explore how educators, policymakers and future leaders can embrace ethical leadership, foster resilience and ensure innovation serves both people and planet.

Her keynote will challenge audiences to think beyond technical solutions and consider the values, collaboration and courage needed to create a more sustainable and inclusive future.

As education systems across Asia prepare learners for an increasingly complex world, Dr Heyzer's insights offer a timely reminder that leadership, trust and human dignity remain at the heart of meaningful progress.

Get your free ticket to join us at Bett Asia to hear from one of the region's most distinguished voices as we explore the future of education, technology and global leadership.