'The men are the wool of the tribe, but the women are the ones who weave the pattern,” says an Arabic proverb.
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be in a big hall surrounded by hundreds of women of all ages, from all walks of life and from across the world? That was the case at the Global Women’s Forum in Dubai this week, and I was overwhelmed by the energy. The forum’s theme of a bustling beehive was perfectly chosen, as it felt like being inside one, among so many amazing women, each with their own story. From a woman who works with the underprivileged women in Central Africa, to another who travels the world introducing “green” ways of making energy, and a third who is encouraging more women to enter the sciences, each woman I met was doing something for herself and for others. This determination to make something of oneself and to leave a legacy was inspirational.
I felt honoured and excited to be part of the forum, as a moderator on a session about gender and how it matters in the energy industry. This is an area that is male-dominated and where women face many challenges. The forum was addressed by two powerful, confident speakers.
Khawla Al Mehairi, the vice president of marketing and corporate communications at Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, has more than 17 years of experience and started at EPPCO. Laure Alazet, a new business developer for ENGIE, is also a board member of the Clean Energy Business Council and is helping form a network for women scientists from across the region.
We discussed how often women underestimate themselves, are too shy to ask for salary raises and promotions, and doubt themselves, while far less-talented men are more confident. A shift in mindset is very important if women are to keep moving forward. When applying for a job, some women might hesitate – “Oh, I don’t have all the skills” – while a man is more likely to think, “Hey, I’ll learn on the way.”
While there are many men who support women, the resilient “boys’ club” is still around, where important decisions continue to be made outside office hours, at a majlis or while out “unwinding”.
“I am thinking of launching a women’s majlis, so we can have a place where we make important decisions together,” said Ms Al Mehairi, who is encouraging more women to enter the energy field and not to be intimidated by industries that are viewed as masculine or male dominant.
The forum succeeded in breaking down many stereotypes, including the belief that women often don’t help other women. I kept meeting women who are helping those who are less fortunate – and even helping female competitors.
It was encapsulated by Queen Rania of Jordan, who said during the forum: “When a woman succeeds, she reaches out to those around her and pulls them up with her. That is why if you empower a woman, you empower a whole society.”
One of the key figures behind the forum, Mona Al Marri, the chairwoman of the Dubai Women Establishment and vice president of the UAE Gender Balance Council, said that hosting the event in Dubai recognised the vision of the leadership and efforts to strengthen women’s roles and capabilities. She was full of energy and grace the whole time, while I admit I felt somewhat drained by the end. I am always amazed by women who balance so many roles, and do it wonderfully and successfully.
The opportunity given by this forum should not be understated. The chance to be inspired, to network and to connect with other women who are doing what you are doing, or doing what you hope to do, is rare and precious. I know I made many new friends and was reminded of old dreams I had on my to-do list, but life and responsibilities got in the way and they were forgotten.
Whatever role a woman may be holding, be it sister, daughter, mother, wife, friend, boss or colleague, it is important to embrace them all and realise it is OK not to be perfect and not to be too hard on ourselves. We can be our own worst critics.
rghazal@thenational.ae
On Twitter: @Arabianmau