The Bahrain Businesswomen’s Society (BBS) is gearing up to host the Global Women Economic Forum and Exhibition (GWEFE), a landmark event held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad and Supreme Council for Women (SCW) president.
Scheduled for January 12-15, 2025, at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, the forum aims to bring together prominent women leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss pressing issues and explore opportunities. More than 40 speakers, including international figures, ministers, and UN officials are confirmed to participate.
Ahlam Janahi, president of the BBS, announced during a Press conference at the Aysha Bahlool Restaurant that the three-day event will feature more than 40 speakers from around the world, including prominent international figures, former and current ministers, and senior UN officials like Central Bank of Bahrain Governor Khalid Humaidan, Industry and Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Bahrain Chamber chairman Sameer Nass, Government Hospitals chief executive Dr Mariam Al Jalahma, Saudi Ambassador to the US Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, Digital Co-operation Organisation secretary general Deemah AlYahya, Bahrain Development Bank Group chief executive Dalal Al Qais and Dr Harjinder Kaur Talwar, member of the National Board of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the Indian Government.
“The forum and exhibition will highlight the achievements of Bahraini businesswomen in corporate management and create opportunities for them to connect with the global business community,” Ms Janahi said. “We aim to position Bahrain as a friendly centre for business, financial transactions and international trade.”
The forum will feature a series of panel discussions on crucial topics:
- Innovative Diplomacy: Exploring the role of women in shaping global legal frameworks.
- Future Readiness: Discussing the impact of AI on education, healthcare, and society.
- Cybersecurity: Addressing the importance of strategic investments in cyber solutions.
- Financial Inclusion: Highlighting the role of financial strategies in entrepreneurial success.
- Creative Industries: Exploring the economic impact of creative industries like arts, technology and media.
The forum will also showcase the achievements of Bahraini businesswomen and highlight the kingdom’s commitment to women’s empowerment.
Dr Hashim Hussain, head of the Investment and Technology Promotion Office of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in Bahrain, will deliver a keynote speech on the Bahraini model and its impact on women’s empowerment.
Expressing his organisation’s commitment to supporting women’s economic empowerment in the kingdom, Dr Hussain said during the Press conference, “We are honoured to be co-organisers and key technical partners of the Global Economic Forum for Women and the accompanying exhibition. Our support includes identifying the participation of a number of speakers, experts and high-level entrepreneurs.”
ITPO Bahrain has been a steadfast partner of the Bahrain Businesswomen Society since its inception in 2000. In 2003, the two organisations collaborated to develop the Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Programme (EDIP), a specialised programme also known as the ‘Bahrain Model’, which is designed to empower women entrepreneurs through capacity building, mentoring and financial support.
“Through this partnership, we have witnessed a significant increase in women’s participation, rising from one in 2001 to 60 per cent of total participants today,” Dr Hussain said. “ITPO Bahrain remains committed to supporting women’s economic empowerment and the Bahrain Businesswomen Society’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship and economic growth in Bahrain.”
The Bahrain Businesswomen Society is collaborating with various government entities, including the Capital Governorate, to ensure the success of the forum. The Capital Governorate, a strategic partner, will support the event and continue to collaborate on initiatives that promote women’s entrepreneurship.
By bringing together a diverse group of speakers and attendees, the International Businesswomen Forum and Exhibition aims to inspire, connect and empower women to drive positive change.
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