Empowering women key to unlocking humanity’s full potential

The journey towards a more equitable world is deeply intertwined with the empowerment of women; and their resilience, ingenuity, and indispensable contributions to humanity’s progress are a testament to this impact. As we strive to build societies where every individual can flourish, we must acknowledge the unfinished work that lies ahead. My many years in humanitarian work have taught me that true empowerment is not a gift or favour, but rather a collective imperative that transforms entire communities and nations.

During my tenure at the Big Heart Foundation for over a decade, I had the opportunity to meet women from more than 30 countries whose stories redefined courage. I sat with mothers who had lost everything due to conflict and rebuilt their lives, girls who carved paths to education despite unimaginable barriers, and entrepreneurs who launched successful ventures amid displacement and hardships. These women elevated themselves above their dire situations and became architects of change, harnessing resilience to reshape their futures. Their triumphs underscore a universal truth: that when women thrive, societies rise.

These experiences have shaped my understanding regarding the true meaning of women’s empowerment, not merely advancing women’s rights but unlocking a community’s full potential. It is a necessity regarding the development of societies, transforming individual strides into collective progress through education, economic inclusion, and leadership.

As I begin my new journey as Director General at NAMA Women’s Advancement, I carry the lessons learnt from these inspiring women. The message of NAMA is to create an environment that ensures equal integration as a fundamental element in economic and social progress by enhancing opportunities and building global partnerships that strengthen the role of women in various sectors. This is also achieved by investing in the supportive and progressive environment in the UAE, which provides a conducive space for women to excel in all fields, from business and technology to governance and the arts.

The purpose of our organisation is firmly rooted in the vision of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairperson of NAMA. Sheikha Jawaher has dedicated herself to strengthening the role of women in society, providing a pioneering model in leadership, inclusiveness, and sustainable development, and her incredible efforts have brought about a great transformation. This continues to inspire countless women, myself among them, and she remains a key supporter of initiatives that promote a more just and equitable world.

We must move beyond symbolic gestures and issue a call to dismantle barriers, amplify marginalised voices, and invest in solutions that empower women to lead. At NAMA, we answer this call through initiatives that equip women with skills, resources, and platforms to shape economies and cultures. From tech hubs to boardrooms, we envision a world where no woman’s potential is stifled by circumstance.

For this reason, we must honour the mothers, innovators, and pioneers who have turned adversity into advantage, with their stories serving as inspiring narratives and blueprints for a more equitable future. Let us continue building a world where every ambition is met with opportunity, where empowerment is not a privilege, but a fundamental right; and by working together, we can create a brighter future where women’s empowerment is a reality that benefits us all.

- Mariam Al Hammadi is Director-General of NAMA Women’s Advancement