26 October 2009,
The three-day event is being held under the patronage of Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The forum’s participants will share their experiences in leadership and strategies to deal with challenges during the session titled ‘Bridging the Gap’. They will attempt to address the misconception that the world has about women in the Middle East and discuss how cultural differences affected their daily business tasks.
Raja Easa Al Gurg, President, Dubai Business Women Council, said women across the UAE have taken on pivotal roles in the economic progress and sustainable development of the country, as has been witnessed in other sectors across various levels.
“Emirati women have emerged in high positions in the economy, politics and in various specialisations and in the process, have enhanced their own capacities, highlighted their own capabilities, refined their skills and worked hard to achieve their dreams of serving their homeland,” Al Gurg said.
Among the leading female personalities honoured on Sunday night have been trusted guides, influential mentors and strategic executives and have played a pivotal role in their companies’ success, adding to a career of extraordinary performance and exceptional results.
Dr Ayesha Mohammed Abdullah, CEO, Dubai Healthcare City, was named as the Leading Woman CEO.
Since her association with Dubai Healthcare City in 2004, Dr Ayesha Abdullah has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. The Leading Woman Chief Financial Officer (CFO) title was awarded to Dubai World CFO Maryam Sharaf.
Maryam Sharaf’s main responsibility with the group involves the preparation and maintenance of financial records, managing an effective system of internal financial control, investigation and advisory work in relation to internal and external financial statements, internal accounts, management records and statements, preparation and maintenance of financial records and internal and external financial reporting.
Maryam Sharaf has over 20 years of experience in the finance industry.
Fatima Al Jaber, COO, Al Jaber Group was chosen as the Leading Woman Chief Operating Officer (COO). In the context of the UAE, her accomplishments make her a pioneer. Before she joined the family business she was undersecretary for the Building Projects Sector in Abu Dhabi Municipality, a significant achievement for a woman in the UAE.
For Fatima to join the family business was not an easy decision. She worked hard to gain credibility and respect. As she evolved into the role of a leading member of the family and the business community at large, she is the one people turn to for advice and guidance.
On a daily basis Fatima manages the delicate balancing act between the rapidly paced work environment and the traditions of home and faith. Fatima also facilitates women’s access to financial services through Al Bashayer Investment Company.
Meanwhile, the forum is hosting the Traditional Arts Auction for raising money for charity organisations in the UAE and the United Kingdom. It has commissioned the internationally renowned luxury watch and jewellery firm Chopard to promote it.