Doha: Vice Chairwoman of Qatar Businesswomen Association (QBWA) Aisha Hussein Alfardan highlighted the importance of collaboration to uplift and empower women. She noted that this year's International Women's Day celebration reflects a shared commitment to creating opportunities that help women thrive.
According to Qatar News Agency, speaking during the Suhoor event organized by QBWA in collaboration with the Canadian and Australian embassies in Qatar, Al Fardan emphasized the United Nations theme for this year's celebration, "For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," underscoring the urgency of decisive actions to achieve gender equality and address the barriers and biases women face globally, both personally and professionally.
HE Canadian Ambassador to Qatar Isabelle Martin connected International Women's Day with the spirit of Ramadan, stating: "It is a pleasant coincidence that this year's International Women's Day falls during the Holy Month of Ramadan, allowing us to bring together incredible women from the local Canadian, Qatari, and Australian communities around a traditional Suhoor dinner." HE the Canadian Ambassador also highlighted Canada's theme for 2025, "Strength in Every Story," which focuses on creating opportunities for women and girls to unlock their potential and drive innovation. She praised Qatar's remarkable story of rapid modernization and the central role of distinguished women in the country's success.
HE Australian Ambassador to Qatar Shane Flanagan applauded the significant contributions of women in Qatar, saying, "Women in Qatar are making an impact in all fields - from business and digital innovation to education, science, government, and sports. Your contributions have not only helped Qatar to prosper but have also transformed this country into a modern and desirable place to live." Flanagan also acknowledged Qatar's humanitarian efforts, especially in conflict zones where women and girls are disproportionately affected.
The event featured a panel discussion with three influential women: COO and Executive General Manager of Commercial Bank and recently named one of the 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen of 2025 by Forbes Dr. Leonie Lethbridge; Executive Director of Al-Mujadilah and Professor at Georgetown University Dr. Sohaira Siddiqui; and Chairperson of MAS Law Firm and QBWA member Mashael Al Sulaiti.
The United Nations theme, "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," highlighted that despite progress, significant efforts are still needed to dismantle barriers. Discussions during the event aimed to build momentum for sustainable change for women worldwide.