100 Women starts the discussion on their own power

The BBC's 100 Women season, focusing on the power of women - those who have changed the world around them and inspired others to do the same has begun.

Our keynote speakers include Joyce Banda, president of Malawi from 2012 to 2014 and named by Forbes magazine as the most powerful woman in Africa.

Iranian-born British comedian Shappi Khorsandi will also speak at the event, held in New Broadcasting House of the BBC, London.

Among those joining them will be Prof Lesley Yellowlees, the first woman president of Britain's Royal Society of Chemistry in its 171 year history.

The inspiring young entrepreneur Shazia Saleem will also be sharing her experiences of setting up her own ready meals company.

Designers, doctors, businesswomen, human rights defenders, social aid activists, bloggers, footballers, economists, actresses, comedians, novelists, photographers and many others will also be taking part.

They will debate on current hot topics - what is it like to survive as a refugee in conflict zones or how to live and feed a large family in a war zone.

Underage marriages, everyday sexism and health issues are also on the agenda.

Women entrepreneurs from around the world who defy stereotypes will also join us and tell their experiences.

Thank you for all your comments you can see a selection here: Live coverage of 100 Women 2014