Pearl Initiative and NAMA discuss women's advancement in the workplace

Pearl Initiative, in collaboration with NAMA Women Advancement Establishment (NAMA), hosted a webinar to discuss the role of women in the workplace, and examine how organisations can increase diversity representation and create an enabling environment to support women, which is a key pillar of the Gulf region's long term vision.

Describing the webinar's participants as "game changers" in her opening address, Reem BinKaram, director of NAMA Women Advancement Establishment (NAMA), said: "The stories of these extraordinary individuals will show us what is possible when the right choices and decisions impacting gender equality are made."

Panellist Rana Zumai, head of corporate communications for Nesma Holding, said, "I was honoured to represent Nesma and be a part of this discussion facilitated by NAMA and the Pearl Initiative. This discussion is another opportunity to create a conversation on how companies can do better and do more to ensure inclusion for women, falling in line with the visions of our governing entities."

Maryam Zaman, partner and head of governance services at KPMG lower Gulf, said: "The Pearl Initiative is helping to create conversations which confront the structure and policies of corporate organisations and educating on the importance of providing a supportive environment for women. Organisations should be placing focus on creating a space where women can celebrate a healthy work-life balance, which is an important element for women's retention within a company."

The webinar facilitated a conversation between the female leaders covering topics such as the role of senior leadership, incorporating diversity on corporate boards without it becoming a check-box exercise, policies that companies in the region can implement to build and grow a diverse workforce, how companies can upskill women in their organisation's long term; and practises that shape a company culture where females can enjoy a healthy work-life balance and, ultimately, flourish.