Women Leaders Breaking Barriers & Serving as Inspiration for Other Women Globally

Gender parity in workplaces has been a grave topic of discussion globally for several years now.

Although women’s representation in the overall workforce has increased dramatically over the past few years, yet a lot of ground remains to be covered. Women continue being under-represented in leadership roles.

Globally, women form less than one third of all leadership roles. Although women in EMEA and LATAM constitute more than 40 percent of all entry level positions, yet their numbers dwindle as they move up the seniority ladder.

The highest numbers of women in leadership come from France (34%) and Sweden (37%). On the contrary, United Arab Emirates (20%), Germany (23%) and the Netherlands (26%) are lagging behind the average.

It still remains exasperating to see women being underrepresented in leadership positions even after witnessing the stark benefits of having more women leader.

We are however hopeful that the global corporate world will course correct and welcome more women in leadership roles. Till then it is imperative that we highlight the success stories of women leaders who have successfully overcome the gender barriers at work.

One such name is Dr. Nesrin El Khatib, CEO, Elite Medical Center. Featured in the cover story, Dr Nesrin is a Harvard Medical School and HEC Paris alumnus, specializing in pediatrics, intensive care, and healthcare management. Apart from child health, Nesrin is a passionate animal welfare advocate, who actively rescues injured and abandoned creatures, while working with Qatar's largest shelter.

From UAE, we also feature Rima Dardenne, the Executive Chairman and Chief Innovation Officer of Irony Home. With a passion for festive decor and interior design, she has successfully transformed Irony Home into a premier destination for unique holiday experiences, blending creativity with sustainability while expanding the brand into international markets.

In this edition, also read an interaction with Salma Ali Al Hashmi, the Vice President of Al Mouj Muscat, where she leads strategic marketing initiatives to position the company as a premier lifestyle and real estate destination in Oman. With extensive experience in hospitality, telecom, and finance, Salma has also served as CMO at Oman Sail, launching Oman’s Women’s Sailing Team. She is actively involved in multiple boards, including UNICEF’s Business Leadership Circle, and has received prestigious awards for her leadership and contributions.

In this special edition, also read the story of Jacqueline Mkindi, CEO, Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA). Jacqueline, holding an MBA in Corporate Management, has transformed the horticulture sector as CEO of the Tanzania Horticultural Association. Her visionary leadership has spurred industry growth, bolstered economic contributions, and expanded market opportunities, positioning the sector as a dynamic force in agriculture and a key player on the global stage.

These women leaders have been breaking barriers and building success stories that inspire other young women across the globe.