An initiative to create a platform for female Emirati role models to share their knowledge, skills and experience with other national women across the nation has been launched by Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, President of Dubai Women Establishment , DWE, and wife of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

Dubbed 'Qudwa' – Arabic for 'role models' – the initiative seeks to empower national women to further contribute to the development of the UAE.

The four-month initiative is part of the DWE’s objective of offering Emirati women opportunities to meet accomplished female role models, including ministers and leaders in fields as varied as media, technology, health, energy and the environment, in both the public and private sector.

The female Emirati role models, who have distinguished themselves with their contributions to society, will share their expertise with senior university students, women professionals, and new employees in the workforce, through three dedicated platforms: 'Knowledge Sharing Sessions'; 'A Working Day with Your Role Model'; and 'Meet Your Role Model'.

Commenting on the innovative launch, Sheikha Manal said, "This initiative was launched to coincide with the Emirati Women's Day, under the theme of 'Women Partners in Giving', which was launched by the 'Mother of the Nation' Her Highness 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, who dedicated her life to serving the nation and supporting the development of Emirati women."

The Qudwa initiative reflects the objectives of the 'Year of Giving' launched by the President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and is inspired by the call made by His Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to the workforce of both the government and private sectors to strengthen humanitarian initiatives throughout the year.

Sheikha Manal added, "The Qudwa initiative reflects the vision of the UAE leadership and strengthens the nation's position as a global leader in humanitarian relief."

This initiative creates a platform for inspiring Emirati women role models to engage with aspiring students, graduates and fresh recruits in the workforce. Emirati women have always been generous givers across various fields, actively contributing to the development of their society and nation.

Sheikha Manal added, "This form of knowledge sharing is one the most rewarding ways in which you can give back to society, and it enables Emirati women to leave a legacy."

The three different sessions are exclusively designed to enable distinguished and inspiring female role models to enlighten Emirati women and girls on how they can lead exemplary professional and personal lives.

During this session, aimed at university seniors, accomplished women role models will teach Emirati women about their professional journey, the challenges they had to conquer, and their early career strategies. The aim is to help boost the confidence of aspiring Emirati youngsters, and help them succeed in their chosen careers.

National women will have the opportunity to spend an entire working day with distinguished Emirati female role models, and not only learn how to be effective at their workplaces but also learn about the core competencies and skills required in varied jobs. This session aims to inspire and equip Emirati women and girls to excel professionally.

Emirati women will have the opportunity to have an informal meeting with accomplished National icons. They can seek advice in both professional and personal areas, get to know them and gain inspiration on how to live an accomplished life.

Sheikha Manal noted, "Emirati women are not only working alongside men as equal partners, contributing to the nation's development, but also making a significant impact on national life armed with their scientific temperament, knowledge, experience and determination."

DWE is consistently striving to provide new platforms for Emirati women, by offering them opportunities to upgrade their skills sets and encouraging them to take on leadership positions across economic, social and political sectors.

Between September and December 2017, DWE’s Qudwa initiative will create opportunities for Emirati icons to share their life journey with aspiring National women.

These exemplary Emirati women role models have substantial achievements to their credit in their respective fields, and have made major contributions through their humanitarian and volunteer work. The initiative will celebrate their various achievements as much as it will empower Emirati women to lead enriching personal and professional lives.