Doha:Al-Mujadilah, Center & Mosque for Women, in collaboration with Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), organized an event titled "Women in Diplomacy Challenges and the Way Forward." The forum included a panel discussion and networking luncheon that brought together diplomats, students, and aspiring professionals to discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in the field of diplomacy.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event provided a platform for women diplomats and aspiring professionals to engage in dialogue about leadership, career development, and the evolving role of women in foreign affairs. Discussions focused on the structural, cultural, and institutional barriers women face in diplomacy, as well as practical strategies for overcoming these challenges and promoting mentorship and professional growth.
The panel featured HE Odette Yidi David, Former Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia to Qatar, as moderator. Participants included HE Maria Camilleri Calleja, Ambassador of Malta to Qatar; HE Lily Adhieu Martin Manyiel, Ambassador of South Sudan to Qatar; and Maryam Al Nasr, Partnerships Development Manager at the Inter-American Development Bank.
The initiative reflects Al-Mujadilah's commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and strengthening collaboration with GU-Q. It aimed to connect academic learning with professional experiences in diplomacy, creating opportunities for continued engagement between students, alumni, and diplomatic leaders.
Executive Director of Al-Mujadilah, Professor Sohaira Siddiqui, emphasized the global representation at the event, noting that participants hailed from over 30 countries. She highlighted the importance of sharing experiences and providing mentorship to emerging leaders in the field.
Professor Clyde Wilcox, Acting Dean at GU-Q, expressed delight in collaborating with Al-Mujadilah, emphasizing the significance of students learning directly from women with careers in diplomacy. He noted that the event aligns with GU-Q's goal of inspiring students to pursue diplomatic careers.
The gathering also aimed to generate practical recommendations for future programming and mentorship opportunities, contributing to broader discussions on women's participation in diplomacy. Through such initiatives, Al-Mujadilah continues to amplify Muslim women's perspectives and facilitate knowledge exchange in diplomacy and public service.
