WASHINGTON, DC: The Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre (SQCC), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Washington, DC, and in partnership with the AMENA Foundation and the Women’s Foreign Policy Group (WFPG), hosted a special celebration of Omani Women’s Day under the theme 'Women Lead: Leadership, Work and Innovation.'
The event welcomed distinguished ambassadors and diplomats, representatives from the US Department of State, think tank experts, university professors, journalists, women leaders, professionals, and members of the international community to celebrate the achievements of Omani women and explore their growing contributions to diplomacy, leadership, innovation, and economic development.
The event opened with welcoming remarks by Halima al Balushi of the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre, followed by remarks from Counsellor Sabra al Hooti, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, highlighting the important role of Omani women in the Sultanate of Oman’s development and their contributions across various sectors.
Merissa Khurma, Founder and President of the AMENA Foundation, and Emma Sanderson of the Women’s Foreign Policy Group (WFPG), also delivered remarks emphasising the importance of women’s leadership, collaboration, and international partnerships in advancing opportunities for women.
The first panel discussion, 'Women’s Leadership in Diplomacy', was moderated by Merissa and featured Hunaina al Mughairi, former ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to the United States, and Greta C Holtz, former US ambassador to Oman. Drawing on their extensive diplomatic experience, they reflected on women’s leadership in international relations, the importance of mentorship, and the role of women in strengthening diplomatic relationships and fostering mutual understanding between nations.
The programme also featured a special tribute honouring the late Nadhira al Harthi, recognising her remarkable legacy and contributions as an inspiring Omani woman.
The second panel discussion, 'Women, Innovation and the Future of Work in the MENA Region', was also moderated by Merissa, Founder and President of the AMENA Foundation, and featured Counsellor Farah al Raisi, Political Adviser and Congressional and Think Tanks Liaison at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman; Hiba Abdulkhaliq, Senior Programme Officer at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre; Gihan Elhadidy of the Women’s Foreign Policy Group (WFPG); and Faria Nasruddin of AMENA Foundation.
The discussion explored the opportunities and challenges facing women in an increasingly digital world, particularly the growing influence of artificial intelligence on education, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Panelists emphasised the importance of digital skills, mentorship, access to opportunities, and inclusive policies that empower women to participate fully in the evolving global economy.
The discussion also highlighted the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to women’s empowerment under Oman Vision 2040, emphasising education, innovation, and women’s participation in the nation’s continued social and economic development.
Throughout the evening, participants reflected on the progress achieved by Omani women, supported by the longstanding national commitment to education and equal opportunity established under the leadership of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said and continued under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
The celebration underscored the important role of cultural diplomacy and international partnerships in advancing dialogue, strengthening connections, and creating opportunities for women to lead and succeed.
Through initiatives such as this celebration, the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre continues its mission to promote cultural understanding, foster meaningful dialogue, and strengthen the enduring friendship between the Sultanate of Oman and the United States.
The Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre, based in Washington, DC, is dedicated to promoting mutual understanding between the peoples of the Sultanate of Oman and the United States through educational, cultural, and outreach programmes that highlight Oman’s rich history, heritage, and contemporary achievements. - ONA
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