Doha, Qatar: As the world marks the International Women’s Day on March 8th, the Qatari Businesswomen Association proudly acknowledges the remarkable achievements of women across various sectors while also recognizing the challenges they continue to face. With a commitment to empowering and supporting women in business, QBWA Organized Yesterday The “Invest in Women – Accelerate Progress” event. – in partnership with QBA, Deloitte, Qatar Islamic Bank and Management Centre Europe (MCE).
The event aimed at recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of Qatari women to the nation’s progress. By emphasizing the importance of strategic investment in women’s empowerment, this event not only acknowledges their achievements but also seeks to foster an environment where women are supported to thrive in various fields, providing a great opportunity to showcase inspiring stories, discuss challenges, and explore avenues for further empowering Qatari women in all spheres of society and economy.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Invest in Women – Accelerate Progress,” resonates deeply with QBWA’s mission to empower, support, and uplift women in business, challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and advocate for gender equality in the workplace. Confirming that women have made significant strides in different sectors, from entrepreneurship and technology to healthcare and education.
The event started by a welcome note from QBWA board Member Mrs. Amal Al Aathem, thanking all guests for celebrating this special day with QBWA, her note was followed by a speech from Mrs Aisha Alfardan, QBWA Vice Chairwoman who welcomed all distinguished guests and started her speech by confirming the importance of this year’s theme, “Investing in Women – Accelerating Progress,” as it is completely consistent with the mission to which the Qatari Businesswomen’s Association has devoted all its efforts since its establishment and also reflects at the same time the inspiring and long journey that women in Qatar have taken until they reached the position they occupy today, “We at QBWA truly believe that investing in women is the cornerstone of development, because it builds a society that values contribution and merit and places them above any other standard. For us, this investment is not just about doing what is right; But also doing what is smart. When women have access to education, health care, and economic opportunities, and when we believe in them and open the way for them, entire societies can rise and prosper.”
During her speech Mrs. Aisha also thanked QBWA Partners and Sponsors “QBWA would like to extend its deepest gratitude to our Partners and sponsors: The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA), Deloitte, Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) and Management Centre Europe (MCE), for their unwavering support and commitment to advancing the role of women in society. Through their generosity and belief in our mission, we have been able to provide invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to women entrepreneurs and professionals. Together, we are fostering a culture of empowerment and inclusivity that benefits not only women but society as a whole.”
The event also included a speech from Mrs. Mooza Alhudaifi, Senior Executive Manager – Internal Audit at QIB, where she spoke briefly about the role of the Bank in supporting Women in Business saying, “On the occasion of International Women’s Day, and through this event, we at QIB emphasize promoting an environment that encourages the effective participation of women in economic growth for the benefit of women and society as a whole.”
Mrs. Mooza speech was followed by a panel discussion that was moderated by Mrs. Lamisse Muhtaseb, People and Purpose Director at Deloitte Middle East and as panelists, Ms. Aisha Nasr AL Jehani – Deputy Executive Director in The Supreme Council of Economic Affairs and Investment, Ms. Zeina Abu Issa – Head of Large Segment Enterprise Marketing at Vodafone Qatar, Ms. Dina Fakih – Partner, Risk Advisory at Deloitte in Qatar and Ms. Paola Granati – Senior Associate – Management Centre Europe (MCE).
The panel discussed the IWD celebration and its link to National Development Strategy -2030 which encompasses a commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women, highlighting the considerable progress Qatar made in empowering women, with significant increase of female participation in the workforce.
Panelists shared their personal narratives, reinforcing their shared dedication to dismantling obstacles, confronting prejudices, and fostering a world that embraces equity and inclusivity for everyone. They affirmed that united, women have the capacity to forge a tomorrow in which everyone can flourish and achieve success.
Following the panel discussion, a networking dinner ensued, during which all the guests exchanged their perspectives and narratives in celebration of International Women’s Day.
