Under the Patronage of
HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein
Wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, Ruler of Dubai

ARAB INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S FORUM

Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship

Powering the Future
Arab Business Women in a Modern Economy

9-11 December 2007
The Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai


 

GLOBALISATION, TRADE and ENTREPRENEURSHIP
POWERING THE FUTURE
Arab Business Women in a Modern Economy

The Arab International Women’s Forum held its first conference in the United Arab Emirates on 10 and 11 December 2007 under the Patronage of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, Ruler of Dubai.

Entitled Powering The Future – Arab Business Women in a Modern Economy, this outstanding event was the culmination of the AIWF 2007 programme focussing on key elements for economic success, namely the creation of an enabling environment for the development of private enterprise and overcoming the challenges and barriers to greater female participation in the Arab economies.

The conference, held at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) at the kind invitation of the Governor of the DIFC, HE Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, developed widely and professionally the remit of the 2007 programme theme, Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship. It served as another bridge linking the City of Dubai, the City of London and the wider financial community, providing a further opportunity to expand business partnerships and to highlight gender equality and good governance practices as key elements for unlocking the full potential of the region.

The two day initiative provided a forum that brought together a high profile gathering of 250 people from over 35 countries, including 19 Arab countries, representing AIWF global partners, members, and other supporters, men and women who are engaged in significant roles within the global economy representing government, business, trade and academic and professional circles.

HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of Economy, United Arab Emirates and AIWF Founder Board Member, delivered the Keynote Opening Address on Monday 10 December. Other eminent speakers, addressing the conference sessions, shared with the participants their experience and deep knowledge of global trade, finance and entrepreneurship.

On the Monday evening, a reception was held to launch the AIWF book, ‘Domains of Influence: Arab Women Business Leaders in a New Economy’ which features successful business women leaders in the Arab world. On the following day, many of the women business leaders made a valued contribution in an interactive session when they revealed best practices that have influenced their success.

A highlight of the conference programme was a corporate governance workshop in collaboration with the Hawkamah Institute for Corporate Governance, ”The Value of Good Corporate Governance for Women’s Entrepreneurship in the MENA region”. At the start of this session on Tuesday 11 December, Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, Chairman, Arab International Women’s Forum signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr Nasser Saidi, Executive Director of Hawkamah to enable both organisations to advocate corporate sector reform and strengthen corporate governance for women entrepreneurs and their businesses in the MENA region.

The Dubai Conference also included the launch of a key AIWF report, the outcome document of the first event within the 2007 Programme, which was the Roundtable Meeting held at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, London on 25 January 2007. Entitled “Women as Engines of Economic Growth in the Arab World – Moving Forward”, this publication set out the achievements and perspectives of the review of the AIWF 2005 Programme Report and Recommendations, with the impact and the advocacy for further action being identified.

AIWF was proud to have the support of Global Corporate and Institutional Partners whose generous support and cooperation made the 2007 Dubai Conference Programme possible and thanks are expressed to:

Leading Partners:           PepsiCo International. Abraaj Capital

Programme Partners:    The Hawkamah Institute, Merrill Lynch

Supporting Partners:      Shell, General Motors, Crescent Petroleum

Conference Support:      The Dubai Business Women Council,
                                        MCM, DLA Piper, Jumeirah Group


Conference Opening Session

Welcome Address and Introduction to the Conference
Mrs Haifa Fahoum Al Kaylani. Chairman, AIWF (Size:127Kb)

Special Address
HE Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman. Governor, Dubai International Financial Centre (Size:27Kb)

Keynote Address
HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi. Minister of Economy UAE (Size:664Kb)

Special Address
HE Mrs Suhair Al Ali. Minster of Planning & International Cooperation, Jordan (Size:547Kb)

World Bank Message
Ms Daniela Gressani. Vice President, MENA, The World Bank


Plenary Session I
Entrepreneurship in the Arab World

Ms Daniela Gressani, Vice President, MENA, The World Bank (Size:38Kb)

HRH Princess Mashael bint Faisal. President of the Board of the Business Women Forum in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia (Size:1110Kb)

Mrs Raja Al Gurg. Managing Director, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group and President DBWC (Size:1260Kb)

Professor Aicha Belarbi. Former Ambassador to the European Union & Professor and Researcher University Mohammed V. Rabat  (Size:70Kb)


Plenary Session II
Financing and Promoting Female Entrepreneurship

Dr Zara Khatib. Manager Technology Marketing & Deployment for Middle East Region, Caspian and South Asia Regions Shell

Ms Sahar Mohamed Ali El Sallab. Managing Director, Commercial International Bank, Egypt

Mr Saad Benhimi. Director Investment Banking Merrill Lynch MENA


Plenary Session III
Global Networks and Partnerships: Sharing Experiences

Alderman Alison Gowman. Partner. DLA Piper (Size:292Kb)

Dr Cristina Molinari. Cabinet Adviser, Ministry of International Trade, Italy (Size:30Kb)

Mrs Kalliopi Boudara. Special Counsellor to the Foreign Minister of Greece (Size:14Kb)

Ms Sung – Joo Kim. Chairperson & CEO, MCM Products AG/Sungjoo Group (Size:15Kb)


The Value of Good Corporate Governance for Women’s Entrepreneurship in the MENA Region
Workshop in cooperation with Hawkamah Institute for Corporate Governance

Introductory Remarks
Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, Chairman, Arab International Women’s Forum (Size:28Kb)

Dr Nasser Saidi, Executive Director, Hawkamah Institute for Corporate Governance (Size:1200Kb)

Mrs Nadereh Chamlou, Senior Advisor (Economic & Sector Work), Office of the Chief Economist, Middle East and North Africa Region (Size:293Kb)

Dr Celia de Anca, Merrill Lynch External Diversity Adviser (Size:1280Kb)

Mrs Neveen El Tahri, Chairperson Delta Securities, Egypt (Size:26Kb)

Ms Ruth Martin, Managing Director, Securities & Investment Institute UK

Ms Dania Mchaourab, Vice President, Forsa


Conference Gala Dinner at Al Falak Ballroom, JUMEIRAH BURG AL ARAB

Conference Dinner Welcome - Mrs Al Kaylani, Chairman AIWF (Size:56Kb)

Keynote Address by
Mr Saad Abdul – Latif
President, SouthAsia, Middle East and Africa (SAMEA) Region of the
PepsiCo International (PI) Division of PepsiCo, Inc (Size:25Kb)

2007 Programme Conference Booklet (Size:568Kb)

2007 Programme Conference Booklet Cover (Size:180Kb)
 

Arab International Women’s Forum LAUNCH of the AIWF 2007 PROGRAMME Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship

AIWF DINNER at the MANSION HOUSE

Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship:
Enhancing Business Opportunities between
the City of London, the Arab World and the International Community

Wednesday 7 March 2007

In the Presence of the Rt Hon Lord Mayor of the City of London,
Alderman John Stuttard

Programme Partner
 


Programme Supporting Partners

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CONFERENCE
At DLA Piper UK LLP, London

Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship:
Women’s Entrepreneurship as a Driver for Growth and Stability

Thursday 8 March 2007

Conference Partner



Supported by
Programme Partner


Programme Supporting Partners

AIWF DINNER
Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship: Enhancing Business Opportunities between the City of London, the Arab World and the International Community

Welcome and Address by Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, Chairman Arab International Women’s Forum

Address by The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor, Alderman John Stuttard

Address by H H Sheikha Hanadi bint Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani
Vice Chairperson & Managing Director Amwal

Address by Mr Hamid Jafar, Chairman Crescent Petroleum & Chairman Dana Gas

Address by Mr Willem LJ Bröcker, Senior Global Advisor, PricewaterhouseCoopers

AIWF Dinner Programme Booklet



INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CONFERENCE
Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship: Women’s Entrepreneurship as a Driver for Growth and Stability

Welcome and Address by Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, Chairman Arab International Women’s Forum


Panel 1
The Role of the Public and Private Sectors in Stimulating Entrepreneurship - Creating the Climate, Providing Support Initiatives and Policies.
Presentations in order of participation

Presentation by Ms Laura Baeza, Head of Unit for the Barcelona Process Directorate for External Affairs European Commission

Presentation by Ms Roxanne Decyk, Corporate Affairs Director, Royal Dutch Shell plc

Presentation by Dr Florence Eid, Middle East Economist and Advisor to Pantera Capital Management LP

Ms Roxanne Mankin Cason, President, Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard


Panel 2
Women Making an Impact in Trade in SMEs and Corporate Business on a National, Regional and International Basis.
Presentations in order of participation

Ms Helena Samaha, Partner, Technology, Media and Commercial, DLA Piper UK LPP

Ms Rania Rizk, International Legal Counsel, Pepsi – Cola International Ltd

Dr Lamia Al – Sulaiman, Board of Directors, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce

Dr Jean – Pierre Lehmann, Professor of International Political Economy, IMD & Founding Director of the Evian Group

Ms Stephanie MacKendrick, President, The International Alliance of Women

International Women’s Day Conference Programme Booklet
 

The Arab International Women’s Forum (AIWF) chose the City of London to launch its 2007 Programme Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship.

The two-day initiative commenced on Wednesday 7 March when, invited back to the Mansion House by the Rt Hon Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman John Stuttard, AIWF hosted a Special Dinner with a theme of Enhancing Business Opportunities between the City of London, the Arab World and the International Community.

Welcoming the distinguished gathering of 270 men and women representing governments, financial and business interests, international organisations from over forty countries, including 18 Arab countries, the AIWF Chairman, Mrs Haifa Fahoum Al Kaylani, embraced the opportunity for AIWF to continue developing links and build bridges, build business.

In her message to launch the AIWF 2007 programme, the Chairman said “ It is essential that we maximise opportunities for entrepreneurship for men and women within the region and for trade between the Middle East and the international community in order to make globalisation effective and more inclusive. AIWF has played a key role since its inception in bringing together all the players necessary to this process. Many challenges remain. However it is through public – private partnerships and international cooperation that we can meet them. The City of London is uniquely placed to assist with the introduction of financial models that will fit the region and stimulate its long term economic growth. It can facilitate access to finance for both men and women entrepreneurs, creating a basis for local growth that is directed at the global market.”

The Lord Mayor commended AIWF as an organisation in the mainstream of creating an environment for growth, accessibility and collaboration in the 22 Arab nations saying “this has led to investment, prosperity and employment opportunities.”
 

Addressing the assembled company was guest speaker and leading Arab business woman, HH Sheikha Hanadi bint Nasser bin Khaled Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director Amwal and AIWF Board Member, who gave some interesting points about the important role being played by Arab women in entrepreneurship. In stating her belief in building partnerships throughout the region, she said “ we have achieved success with Amwal with a team representing 15 different nationalities, women and men working side by side for a common goal. The only requirement for working at Amwal is that you have to be good at what you do – this is the true spirit of Globalisation”

In his remarks, guest speaker, Hamid D Jafar, Executive Chairman of Dana Gas said “there are positive trends encouraging private sector growth, entrepreneurship and economic diversification in the region. Investing across borders within the Middle East and collaborating with other companies of the region is an important requirement for the creation of any successful regional economic bloc.”

Moving on to the perspective of a global business, guest speaker Willem L J Bröcker, Senior Global adviser, PricewaterhouseCoopers identified people‘s skills and talent as a key but also scarce resource which business could not afford to waste. He said “in the Arab world there is a significant challenge in developing the skills base among women that successful businesses and economies need. We need to identify role models and AIWF is playing a key part in this”

The next day, AIWF provided another opportunity to expand business partnerships for encouraging greater participation in the global marketplace when it held a conference to celebrate International Women’s Day that was hosted by AIWF global partner DLA Piper UK at their offices in the City.

In speaking about the launch of the AIWF 2007 programme, Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, Chairman AIWF, highlighted the reason why the theme of Globalisation, Trade and Entrepreneurship is so important when she said “We believe that the future growth of the region must be built on making better use of all its resources, human and capital with women as an integral force. Women’s entrepreneurship is expanding around the world. Cooperation between the Arab world and the international community is vital to encourage this trend. AIWF is well placed to facilitate this link and put forth an agenda for positive change. The timing for Arab women to make real and tangible difference has never been more opportune nor the demand for their contribution greater”

Outstanding Arab and international speakers examined the theme of Women’s Entrepreneurship as a Driver for Growth and Stability, illustrating how women are proving themselves as business leaders, starting their own businesses or taking leading roles in companies and multinational organisations. Mentioned in every one of the ten panellists’ presentations were the key aspects of sharing best practices, making partnerships and using role models.

There were two panels. Moderator/Speaker for Panel 1, The Role of the Public and Private Sectors in Stimulating Entrepreneurship, - Creating the Climate, Providing Support Initiatives and Policies, was Roxanne Decyk, Director Corporate Affairs, Royal Dutch Shell.

Also addressing the topic in this panel were:
Laura Baeza, Head of the Unit for the Barcelona Process Directorate for External Affairs European Commission
Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean, Businesswomen and former Minister for the Middle East, UK government
Florence Eid, Middle East Economist and advisor to Pantera Capital Management LP
Roxanne Mankin Cason, President Women’s Leadership Board, Harvard

Panel 2 - the Moderator /Speaker was Dr Jean – Pierre Lehmann, Professor of International Political Economy, IMD & Founding Director of the Evian Group. This panel had the topic of Women Making an Impact in SMEs and Corporate Business on a National, Regional and International Basis

Also addressing the topic in the other panel were:
Helena Samaha, Partner – Technology.Media and Commercial, DLA Piper, Rania Rizk, Senior International Counsel, PepsiCo International, Lama Al –Sulaimen, Member, Board of Directors, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce Stephanie MacKendrick, President The International Alliance of Women / President Canadian Women in Communications

During the debates, the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs were summed up as: Access to finance, Access to markets, Access to information, Access to training and, finally Access to policymaking. The delegates learnt about many initiatives with which the speakers were involved that aimed at creating entrepreneurs and helping women succeed.

It was pointed out that women are the largest economy, diversity is central to success but must be combined with inclusiveness and, businesses need to play a key role in encouraging women to take up diverse and expanding roles.

The AIWF Chairman on behalf of the Board acknowledged the support of Global Annual Partners, Shell International as Programme Partner, PepsiCo International and PricewaterhouseCoopers as Programme Supporting Partners and DLA Piper UK LPP as Conference Partner for the launch events. She also expressed her appreciation to Jumeirah Carlton Tower for their special cooperation.

Mrs Al Kaylani underlined the intent of the 2007 programme when she said “AIWF is fully committed to achieving the greater participation of women as positive agents for change to move the agenda for prosperity and peace forward.”
 

Arab International Women’s Forum LAUNCH of the AIWF 2006 PROGRAMME

Building Bridges, Building Business Between the City of London,
the Arab World and the international Community

BUSINESS FORUM AT THE SHELL CENTRE
April 19th 2006

5TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION DINNER
at the Mansion House April 20th

In the Presence of Her Majesty Queen Rania Al-Abdullah of Jordan

Hosted by the Rt Hon Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman David Brewer CMG

Supported by SHELL International

 

5TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION DINNER
Building Bridges, Building Business Between the City of London, the Arab World and the International Community

Welcome and Address by Mrs Haifa Al Kaylani, Chairman AIWF

Address by The Rt. Hon. The Lord Mayor of the City of London. Alderman David Brewer CMG

Address by HH Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of the Economy and Planning, United Arab Emirates

Concluding Remarks by Dr Gavin Graham, Vice President New Business Development, Middle East Shell

5th Anniversary Commemorative Booklet

MEDIA ARTICLES
(English) (Size:712Kb)    (Arabic) (Size:2000Kb)

The AIWF 2006 Programme Launch was comprised of two events. The venue for the main event on Thursday 20 April 2006 was the Mansion House in the City of London for the 5th AIWF Anniversary Dinner when guests attended from 35 countries. Her Majesty Queen Rania Al - Abdullah was the Guest of Honour. Ms Cherie Booth, QC was a guest at the reception, on this occasion.

The Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman David Brewer CMG Invited AIWF to celebrate its 5th Anniversary at the Mansion House in a special dinner hosted by the Lady Mayoress and himself. In his address the Lord Mayor highlighted the achievements that women are making in the Arab world and paid tribute to the work of AIWF in this regard.

Guest Speaker, HH Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of the Economy and Planning, United Arab Emirates and AIWF Founder Board Member gave an animated address, which highlighted the theme for the 5th Anniversary programme of Building Business Building Bridges. Her success, in her public life, in becoming the first woman to succeed to this important cabinet post is an achievement of which AIWF members feel very proud.

Dr Gavin Graham, Vice President New Business Development. Middle East Shell offered his congratulations. AIWF acknowledged with pleasure the continuing commitment of Shell as a Global and Programme partner of AIWF and especially the Supporter for this launch programme.

Mrs Haifa Fahoum Al Kaylani, AIWF Chairman recorded the achievements of the first five years. The plan was to face the challenges ahead, exploring how to turn those challenges into opportunities for the future growth of the region. The future growth of the region must be built on making better use of all its resources, human and natural with women as an integral force. AIWF was well placed to pursue this and linking the Arab world, the City of London and the international community was part of the strategy for the 2006 programme regarded as a force for positive change.
 

Images from the Celebration Dinner at The Mansion House



 

Our other important event  was held on April 19th, hosted by our annual partners Shell at the Shell HQ Building when AIWF welcomed more than 70 guests for a Business Forum “Building Bridges, Building Business: Increasing Business Links Between the City of London, the Arab World and the International Community”. The four guest speakers on the panel were Dr Mohammed Smadi, Secretary General and Chief Executive, The Arab British Chamber of Commerce, Dr Assia Bensalah Alaoui, Ambassador at Large of HM, the King of Morocco, Ms Roxanne Decyk, Director Corporate Affairs, Shell and Mr Jeremy Carver, Consultant and Head of International Law, Clifford Chance with concluding remarks by Dr Gavin Graham, Vice President New Business Development, Middle East, Shell.

Their diverse comments on the aspects of global influences, reform, diversity and economic stability brought forward spirited discussion from the audience as our distinguished speakers approached the theme from different angles. Prospects of expanding business, increasing employment, ensuring that women were in the talent pool for corporate positions and recognising that mindsets and society at large must change, if reforms are to be effective were some of the issues raised in the discussion. This was truly a discussion on global citizenship and its responsibilities in today’s society, regardless of the sector, gender or sect that was represented.
 

ARAB INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S FORUM 2005 AIWF PROGRAMME WOMEN AS ENGINES OF ECONOMIC GROWTH IN THE ARAB WORLD

Ten Years After the Barcelona Process:
Empowering Women as a Catalyst for Economic Development
7-8 April 2005
at European Parliament, Brussels


Women and Integrated Rural Development
12-13 June
at the League of Arab States, Cairo


The Barcelona Process: Women As Engines Of Economic Growth
Conference Recommendations
29 September
at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, London


With the valued co-operation of

The League of Arab States, The European Parliament
The European Commission, The Foreign and Commonwealth Office
The World Bank
And the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe at the European Parliament

With the support of Corporate Partners

    

In collaboration with
Instituto de Empresa Business School, Spain
Fundación Promoción Social de la Cultura
No Peace Without Justice

Women’s Strategy Group of Egypt’s International Economic Forum

•  Launch of the AIWF 2005 Programme Report & Recommendations, FCO, London

AIWF 2005 Programme Report & Recommendations
Women as Engines of Economic Growth in the Arab World

Special Address Launch of the AIWF 2005 Report by the Chairman of AIWF
(English) (Size:86Kb)    (Arabic) (Size:2445Kb)
Special Message by the Secretary General of the League of Arab States (Size:39Kb)
Special Address by Dominique Dellicour, European Commission (Size:25Kb)
Press Release
(English) (Size:43Kb)    (Arabic) (Size:154Kb)

• Ten Years After the Barcelona Process, Brussels

Speakers Presentations
Conference Programme (English) (size: 150Kb)
Press Release (English) (size: 385Kb)
Press Release and Conference Programme (Arabic) (size: 422Kb)
Conference Executive Summary (size: 72Kb)

• Women & Integrated Rural Development

Conference Programme in English (size: 109Kb)
Conference Programme in Arabic (size: 163Kb)
Speaker Presentations
Press Releases

The Arab International Women’s Forum hosted two-linked conferences as part of the 2005 AIWF programme, Women as Engines of Economic Growth in the Arab World. Starting with the first conference, Ten Years After the Barcelona Process: Empowering Women as Catalysts for Economic Development, held 7-8 April 2005 at the European Parliament in Brussels with the valued co-operation of the European Parliament, the European Commission, the League of Arab States, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the World Bank marking the anniversary of the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership.

Empowering Women as Catalysts for Economic Development focussed on women’s role in business, in professions, corporate life and in creating small and medium sized businesses in order to foster economic growth and development. The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, or “Barcelona Process”, was launched in November 1995 during the Euro-Mediterranean Conference of Ministers of Foreign Affairs held in Barcelona. The Euro-Mediterranean Partnership comprises 35 members, 25 EU Member States and 10 Mediterranean Partners.

The 10th anniversary of the “Barcelona Process” is the right moment to analyse what has been achieved for women’s empowerment in the region and to explore what mechanisms should be put in place to enhance the economic empowerment of women. This international conference will play a significant role in advancing the agenda of women in the Arab world and will contribute to discussions that will lay the ground-breaking work for the Barcelona II Process. As importantly, it was an opportunity to widen those crucial business and professional networks across the region and into Europe and to share success stories with distinguished guests.


This landmark event between Arab and European women around the status of women and economic development gathered high-level policy makers and business leaders, representatives from leading international institutions, academics, media, and members of civil society.

The Arab International Women’s Forum worked closely with a number of valued partners. The programme was supported in Brussels by the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe at the European Parliament in collaboration with Instituto de Empresa Business School, Madrid, as the academic partner and with the full cooperation and advice of No Peace Without Justice, an international NGO. The AIWF 2005 Programme is also supported by corporate partners Shell and IBM.

For details on the programme and copies of Guest Speaker remarks please view the links.

The AIWF programme continued with the valued co-operation of the League of Arab States and the support of the European Parliament, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and the World Bank. AIWF hosted the second conference, Women and Integrated Rural Development, on 12-13 June 2005 at the prestigious headquarters of the League of Arab States, in Cairo. We were pleased that the Fundación Promoción Social de la Cultura, a leading organisation in Spain renowned for its work with NGOs and rural associations in the Euro-Mediterranean region, were our programme partners along with the Women’s Strategy Group of Egypt’s International Economic Forum, as our local partners.

We will be following up both conferences with a third event in London at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office 29 September at the time of the UK Presidency of the European Union. In London, we will be presenting the Conference Reports and priority recommendations put forward by the Brussels and Cairo conferences.

The Arab International Women’s Forum continues to lead with sound and timely initiatives that increase the understanding of gender issues, explore the common challenges faced by women in Europe and the Arab world and give Arab women a stronger voice. As we move ahead towards gender equality, equal opportunities and tapping into the largely, unexplored economic potential of women, AIWF also provides important networking opportunities for members and associates to connect and connect Arab women with leaders in international institutions who shape public policy.

For more information, kindly contact:


Arab International Women’s Forum
4th Floor, 45 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4Jl, United Kingdom
Telephone: 44 (0) 20 7409 7788
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7409 7575

Email: info@aiwfonline.com     Website: www.aiwfonline.com
 

 

ARAB INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S FORUM With the valued co-operation of The League of Arab States the THIRD ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2004    Women in the Arab World:  Partners in the Community and on the World Stage    المرأة في العالم العربي  شريك في التنمية وشريك في التواصل مع المجتمع الدولي    6-9 June 2004    at the Headquarters of  The League of Arab States  Cairo

Web Site: League of Arab States
 

Click for:

Conference Summary
(English (size: 24Kb)) (Arabic (size: 112Kb))

Conference Recommendations
(English (size: 11Kb)) (Arabic (size: 53Kb))

Conference Programme
(English (size: 73Kb)) (Arabic (size: 127Kb))

Speakers Remarks and Presentations

List Of Confirmed Speakers (58Kb)

Conference Brochure (size: 204Kb)



After two successful conferences in the United Kingdom, the Arab International Women’s Forum held the Third Annual Conference, Women in the Arab World: Partners in the Community and on the World Stage, in Cairo, 6-9 June 2004.

There were many “firsts” for this conference making it truly a landmark event! This was the Arab International Women’s Forum’s first conference to be held in the Arab world and we were delighted to be working in close co-operation with the League of Arab States. It was the first time that the League of Arab States co-hosted a women’s conference in the main Chamber of their headquarters – a prestigious and significant venue which reinforced the powerful messages about the calibre of speakers and timeliness of the topics.

Her Excellency Mrs Suzanne Mubarak officially opened the conference with a valued Keynote Address setting the tone for our distinguished Guest Speakers. His Excellency Mr Amre Moussa, Secretary General, in his Special Address emphasised the role of the League of Arab States in its quest to increase the participation of women in public life, in business and in civil society.

With the valued support of His Excellency the Secretary General and all section heads of the League of Arab States, AIWF planned and directed the conference programme and managed conference logistics. We would like to offer, again, our special thanks to His Excellency.

The Arab International Women’s Forum developed a strong programme featuring five plenary sessions which defined new realities of public and private sector partnerships at the local, pan Arab and international levels. This conference explored challenges, identified best practices, profiled international organisations and provided ample opportunity to share experiences. During the conference, Guest Speakers highlighted the remarkable progress that is now taking place in the Arab region concerning women and showcased the diversity of both the Arab and international communities.

We are indebted to the very many excellent Guest Speakers who participated in the programme taking time from exceptionally busy schedules and at their own expense. Leaders in their respective fields, our distinguished panellists came from as many as 20 different countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Brussels, and Denmark. The calibre of presentations and remarks was a testament to their experience and dedication to gender-related issues, building bridges and creating partnerships.

Over 200 participants from as many as 35 countries were in attendance at the Third Annual AIWF Conference. Participants came from all walks of life – women in government, in business, students and academics from universities, as well as women leaders in NGOs and with international organisations. Added to the participants list were many special guests – Ambassadors and heads of Special Agencies – invited to the Opening Session.

In addition to the conference plenary sessions, the conference social programme allowed participants the opportunity to forge new friendships and network among a highly motivated group of women. The Arab International Women’s Forum greatly appreciates the wide and valued support from our hosts. Sir Derek Plumbly, British Ambassador to Egypt, and Lady Nadia Plumbly kindly hosted the Conference Opening Reception at their residence which was the perfect start to the conference.

We were honoured that His Excellency Mr Amre Moussa, was the Special Guest at the Official Conference Dinner at the J.W. Marriott Hotel.

His Excellency Mr Mamdouh El Beltagui, Minister of Tourism, generously hosted an exclusive “Sound and Light” show at the Giza Plateau followed by an Egyptian cultural night.

AIWF was greatly supported by Conference Principal Contributors: Orascom, Procter & Gamble, Shell, IBM and HSBC. AIWF welcomed our sponsors and their delegations as active partners.

The media coverage in advance of, during and following the conference has been remarkable. It is estimated that over 7.1 million people were exposed to the conference through readership circulation figures and broadcast estimates and the coverage continues.

The Third Annual AIWF Conference 2004 has been a great success! We have continued our valuable work in profiling the diversity and success of women in the Arab world and providing important links to key local, pan-Arab, and international networks. We have triggered a keen interest by the general public in AIWF as we consistently deliver crucial messages that Arab women are playing an important role in business and public life. We have again demonstrated that the Arab International Women’s Forum, a non-profit organisation, is the voice of Arab women showcasing their development, breaking stereotypical images and creating greater public awareness of their success and prospects within an international context.

Second Annual Conference
Arab International Women’s Forum

Women in the Arab World:
Windows of Opportunity Opening Wider in Business & Public Life

المرأة في العالم العربي
التوسع قي نوافذ الفرص في مجالات الحياة الاقتصادية والحياة العامة

22-24 October 2003

Conference Official Booklet

Conference Brochure

Conference Programme with Conference Speakers

Speakers Presentations

Guest Speaker Profiles

Press Releases
 

The Second Annual AIWF Conference, Women in the Arab World: Windows of Opportunity Opening Wider in Business & Public Life was held at The Carlton Tower, London on 22-24 October 2003. It followed the tremendous success of AIWF’s first conference last year.
 

Windows of Opportunity in Business and Public Life combined a series of informative and stimulating sessions and panel discussions as well as offered participants the crucial opportunity to network with a wide array of speakers, members and sponsors. Her Excellency Mrs Suzanne Mubarak, First Lady of the Arab Republic of Egypt and Her Highness, Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty The King of Bahrain, Chairperson of the Supreme Council of Women were Guests of Honour among an impressive list of distinguished speakers.
 
Windows of Opportunity in Business and Public Life explored issues in human resource development including education, life-long learning, skills and training. In a session on employment strategies, speakers focussed on creating greater career opportunities and moving up the corporate ladder. A special panel on “Leadership, Politics and Civil Society” highlighted challenges and opportunities facing women and their participation in public life. Lastly, this conference looked at building networks and outreach activities.
 
The outstanding calibre of presentations by all our speakers greatly contributed to the success of the Second Annual Conference. The programme was chosen with the greatest care ensuring that participants could take advantage of the diversity, knowledge and experience of successful women in business and public life. AIWF members and delegates very much enjoyed the substantive issues raised, the discussions and, equally, the opportunity to meet each other and form long-lasting relationships.
 
Among our special guests speakers we were delighted to hear from: Mervat Tallawy, Secretary General, Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, Lebanon; Hon Patricia Harrison, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, USA; Dr Haifa Al Lail, Dean, Effat College, Saudi Arabia; Dr Zahra Shojaie, Advisor to the President, Centre for Women’s Participation, Iran; the Rt Hon Baroness Shirley Williams, Leader of the Liberal Democrats in the House of Lords, UK; Dr Faiza Al Kharefei, Professor of Chemistry, University of Kuwait; Bineta Diop, Executive Director, Femmes Africa Solidarité, Switzerland; Denise Kingsmill CBE, Deputy Chair, Competition Commission, UK; Celia de Anca, Director, Instituto de Empressa, Centre for Diversity in Global Management, Spain; Maire Brankin, Oxford Executive Coaching, UK; and Haruko Fukuda OBE, Former President, Rokia Rahman, President, Women Entrepreneurs Association, Bangladesh; Hanan Heakal, Head of Diversity, Procter & Gamble; Monira Al-Ghamdi, Deputy Director, Women’s Centre, Saudi Arabia General Investment Authority; Niki Tzavella, Vice President, Intracom SA Hellenic, Greece; Mona Sabry, Chief Financial Officer, IBM EMEA Systems Group Finance, France; Fatma El Mallah, Director, Department of Environment & Sustainable Development, League of Arab States; and Sabah Khalil Al Mouyyed, Member of the Supreme Council of Women, Bahrain.

CONFERENCE SPONSORS
 
We would like to acknowledge the growing partnerships with Conference Sponsors, Pepsi International, Procter & Gamble and Jumeirah International. Their support and participation are greatly appreciated.
 
The continued success of AIWF, its members and, most importantly, the increased opportunities of women in the Arab world, is very much linked to the growing partnerships of, and collaboration with, such distinguished organisations as global sponsors/partners. AIWF looks forward to working more closely as these relationships expand.