On the occasion of the upcoming Emirati Women's Day, Masdar's Executive Director of Sustainability and Brand, Dr. Nawal Al Hosany has praised the role of the UAE's esteemed leadership in placing an emphasis on the empowerment of women, inspired by the legacy of the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

"Since the establishment of the union, Sheikh Zayed has always believed in the pivotal role of women in driving the sustainable growth and development of the UAE. As a result, the UAE is one of the first countries in the region to have created opportunities for women to take on senior positions in the political, economic, and social sectors," she said In an exclusive interview with the Emirates News Agency, WAM, Dr. Al Hosany stated that Masdar is inspired by the wise leadership's vision for women's, and is making significant progress in enhancing the practical and social role of women across the company.

"Currently, women make up 33 percent of our employees, of which 61 percent are Emirati," Al Hosany continued, adding that Masdar is firmly committed to providing opportunities to women and providing them with a platform to develop and advance their skill sets and expertise.

Al Hosany went on to say that the UAE's leadership has provided all means of support to the people of the nation by investing in the development of skills and capabilities of all of its citizens. "The UAE has always valued the empowerment of women, concerning providing them with equal rights and integrating women in the development of the country. I am a product of this journey, sitting here as an Emirati woman who grew up, learned and gained valuable and practical experience under the patronage of our leaders."

The most recent ministerial reshuffle included five female ministers, bringing the total number of Emirati women in the UAE Cabinet to eight, confirming that the UAE government is headed in the direction carved out for us by the late Sheikh Zayed, by recognising the capabilities and potential of Emirati women, as well as the various laws implemented to provide legal protection and enhance women’s opportunities, she explained.

She also expressed her sincere gratitude for the support received by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, adding, "His Highness has been committed to integrating women into the work force, in both the public and private sectors, and his efforts have benefitted women like me, and me personally, and the UAE as a whole."

When speaking on the role played by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Al Hosany said that Emirati Women's Day is a direct result of Her Highness' efforts.

"The 28th of August marks the founding of the General Women's Union, GWU, in the UAE, and since its inception in 1975, Her Highness has spared no effort in improving the status of women and further supporting them to be recognised as key partners in building the future of the UAE," she said.

"Due to Her Highness’ tireless commitment, women’s education has reached 91 percent enrollment and 77 percent in higher education. The Mother of the Nation is an example to all the women of the UAE, as she gives everything to ensure women’s access to education, literacy and overall rights keep growing.

Masdar's Executive Director of Sustainability and Brand praised the UAE's mothers of martyrs, saying that they are a symbol of sacrifice, giving and patience in the name of raising the nation’s flag and being faithful to our land. "I cannot but extend my heartfelt tribute to the continuous efforts and morals that they have instilled in their youth, which demonstrate the highest examples of sacrifice and patriotism," she concluded.