Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the ‘Mother of the Nation’, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (SCMC), and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, announced the expansion of the Emirati Women Chapter (EWC) to drive greater social impact.The 2025 cycle of the EWC will introduce two new tracksaimed at empowering senior Emirati women and creating pathways for women of determination to lead and contribute to national progress.
The Emirati Women Chapter was launched in March 2024 in partnership with the General Women’s Union, which was established in 1975 under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.The programme focuses on enhancing capabilities in areas such as public speaking, creative expression, and public health. Building on the success of its inaugural cohort, which supported 28 Emirati women in achieving significant personal and professional milestones, the new cycle will open further avenues for inclusive growth and leadership development. This expansion reflects PureHealth’s commitment to advancing diversity and inclusivity, promoting Emiratisation, and nurturing national talent in alignment with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.
Adedicated track will focus on empowering senior Emirati women by providing opportunities to mentor, advise, and lead in their communities. By encouraging intergenerational mentorship, this track recognises the invaluable contributions of senior women, ensuring that their wisdom and experience continue to inspire future generations, while creating greater national unity and community engagement.
The new inclusion will create pathways for women of determination to engage in community initiatives and prepare for leadership roles. The programme will offer tailored resources and mentorship, supporting them in developing new skills, pursuing leadership opportunities, and contributing meaningfully to society. By breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity, the initiative aims to drive lasting societal change.
H.E. Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary General of GWU, said, “True progress is achieved when every member of society, regardless of age or ability, has the opportunity to contribute. By fostering collaboration and meaningful participation, we create a united community that thrives on diversity, overcomes challenges, and amplifies every voice for the greater good.”
H.E. Al Rym Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of SCMC, said,”The knowledge and experiences of our elders, combined with the determination and resilience of people of determination, are invaluable assets to our society. By embracing their contributions, we ensure their legacy continues to guide and inspire future generations, creating a community where every individual is empowered and valued.”
Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer of PureHealth, said,”Creating opportunities for growth and leadership is at the heart of our vision for the future. The Emirati Women Chapter is a testament to the power of mentorship and inclusivity in shaping future leaders. By nurturing Emirati talent and providing women with the tools and confidence to lead, we are building a healthier, more equitable society, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and unlock their fullest potential.”
The success of the EWC was celebrated at the recent ‘Remarkable Emirati Women’ forum, where over 500 female leaders gathered to honour the achievements of the inaugural cohort. The event showcased the programme’simpact and facilitated discussions on the future of women’s leadership in the UAE. Graduates presented projects across public speaking, literature, and public health, demonstrating the programme’s transformative influence.
Sheikha Moza bint Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and Sheikha Hamda bint Khalifa bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, dedicated EWC graduates, have been appointed as ambassadors to lead key community initiatives. Sheikha Moza will champion programmes focused on senior citizen engagement, while Sheikha Hamda will drive efforts to promote digital wellbeing, raising awareness about the importance of balanced technology use to foster healthier, more connected communities.
EWC graduates continue to play a critical role in the programme’s evolution by mentoring new participants and contributing to the development of a self-sustaining leadership network. This ongoing cycle of mentorship reinforces a culture of shared responsibility and strengthens the initiative’s long-term community impact.
