Tribune News Network
doha
The Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) is set to make a significant impact at this year’s World Trade Organization (WTO) Public Forum, one of the most prominent international business events of the year. A delegation of QBWA will participate in the forum, scheduled to take place from September 10 to September 13 in Geneva, Switzerland, under the theme “Re-Globalization: Better Trade for a Better World.”
QBWA’s participation underscores its dedication to empowering women in the global trade sector. The Association will contribute to the forum through two key initiatives: a session focused on leveraging digitalisation for women’s empowerment and an art exhibition by renowned Qatari artist and QBWA board member Amal Al Athem.
“Our participation in the WTO Public Forum is a testament to QBWA’s commitment to creating an environment where Qatari women can succeed in the global economy,” said QBWA Chairwoman Aisha Alfardan. “This event provides us with a platform to emphasize the vital role digitalization plays in fostering inclusive trade practices that support women entrepreneurs.”
QBWA’s panel discussion, titled “Empowering Women: Digitalization for Inclusive Trade,” will explore how digital technologies can open new avenues for women in global trade. The panelists will discuss strategies to bridge the digital gender divide, enhance women’s participation in e-commerce, and use digital tools to overcome traditional barriers. Key topics will include the expanding role of women in digital services sectors such as fintech, healthcare, education, and professional services. This session aims to highlight practical solutions and best practises to empower women entrepreneurs and professionals to thrive in the digital economy.
Adding a unique cultural dimension to the event, QBWA will also host an exclusive art exhibition by Amal Al-Athem, a renowned Qatari artist and QBWA Board Member. Titled “Observers,” the exhibition invites reflection on the current global landscape through a series of thought-provoking artworks. Al-Athem’s pieces delve into themes of observation and introspection, resonating with the forum’s emphasis on rethinking globalization’s impact on societies.
“Art provides a unique lens through which we can examine and question the world around us. ‘Observers’ is an exploration of these themes, aligning perfectly with the WTO’s focus on creating a more inclusive, thoughtful global trade environment,” said Amal Al Athem.
This dual approach of combining policy discussions with cultural exchange highlights QBWA’s holistic strategy to promote the interests of Qatari women on the global stage. By engaging in both business and artistic discourse, QBWA aims to foster a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by women in international trade.
The WTO Public Forum, the organization’s largest annual outreach event, provides a unique platform for diverse stakeholders to shape the future of global trade. With over 2,000 participants expected, including policymakers, civil society representatives, academics, and business leaders, the forum serves as a melting pot of ideas and initiatives.
QBWA’s active participation in this global dialogue reflects Qatar’s growing influence in international trade discussions and its commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth. The Association’s efforts at the WTO Public Forum underscore the importance of integrating women into the global trade narrative, ultimately contributing to more equitable and sustainable economicdevelopment.
