Doha, Qatar – The Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) had the great honor of hosting a distinguished luncheon in honor of Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden and the President of Mentor International, a leading global federation of non-for-profit organizations working to develop youth development programs. The luncheon took place at the QBWA’s office in Doha in the presence of H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of the Qatari Businessmen Association and the Patron of QBWA and Her Excellency Mrs. Nadia bint Ahmed Al Shaibi, The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Kingdom of Sweden and H.E. Mr. Gautam Bhattacharyya, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to the State of Qatar. This exclusive event brought together influential female leaders, businesswomen, diplomats, and distinguished QBWA members to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Her Majesty to social development, women’s empowerment, and global humanitarian efforts.
The luncheon served as a unique platform to strengthen the relationship between the two organizations, focusing on areas of mutual interest, including women’s leadership, education, sustainable development, and innovation. It also underscored the vital role that women play in driving economic growth and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani warmly welcomed Her Majesty and the distinguished guests, highlighting the importance of this event while stressing out the growing role of women in the Qatari economy and the potential opportunities for further collaboration between Qatar and Sweden, particularly in the fields of business, Art and Culture.
The event included introductory videos about both organizations and a brief introduction by Mrs. Jiskala Khalayli, QBWA Executive Director about QBWA’s role in supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs in Qatar.
Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden, who is one of high-level dignitaries attending the Mentor Arabia Gala Dinner 2025 held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Education Above All Foundation (EAA), also known for her tireless work in advocating for children’s rights, education, and women’s health, graciously acknowledged the warm welcome and expressed her admiration for the progress made by women in Qatar’s business community. She emphasized the importance of international partnerships and the role that women leaders play in driving positive change across industries and nations.
The luncheon offered an opportunity for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities women face in business and leadership roles.
The event further highlighted the QBWA’s ongoing efforts to foster networks for women in business and provide a platform for collaboration with international leaders. Her Majesty’s visit to Qatar marked another important step in strengthening the diplomatic and economic ties between Qatar and Sweden, while also championing the cause of women’s empowerment on a global scale.
The luncheon was a remarkable moment for the Qatari businesswomen community, offering inspiration, encouragement, and a renewed commitment to pursuing excellence and leadership in business.
About QBWA:
Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) is an independent non-profit entity working under the umbrella of Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) which has been established under the Amiri Decree No. 14 for 2002.
QBWA aims to empower women and promote their active participation in the economy, benefiting both women and society as a whole.
QBWA has played a vital role in driving economic growth in line with the government’s vision. The association has emerged as a leading model of best practices and active participation.
QBWA’s strategy is focused on expanding its impact locally, regionally, and globally, building partnerships with both Qatari and international organizations to advance its mission and achieve its goals.
About Mentor Arabia Foundation:
Mentor Arabia is a regional non-governmental & non-profit foundation founded in 2006, which envisions an Arab world where children and youth are empowered to lead healthy lives and make sound decisions.
It is chaired by HRH Prince Turki Bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, and it is a branch of Mentor International, founded in 1994 and headed by H.M. Queen Silvia of Sweden, which includes Mentor USA, Mentor Sweden, Mentor Germany, Mentor Latvia, and Mentor Jordan.
Mentor’s programs target millions of children and youth, as well as parents, educators, and social workers. Its work includes policy development, capacity building, knowledge dissemination, advocacy and forging partnerships with reputable stakeholders.
