DUBAI (WAM)
Young women should seize opportunities and learn from the UAE’s example of success in women’s representation in public service, said Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Speaking during a conversation with Hadley Gamble of Al Arabiya, at the Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD 2024), she said global events like GWFD are essential to formulate policies to encourage women to come to public service and contribute to the empowerment of women in a meaningful way.
The session was attended by H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Member of the Dubai Council, and Member of The Executive Council of Dubai; Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, and Chairperson of the Board and Managing Director of the Dubai Women Establishment; and Hala Badri, Director General of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
“Progress made in the UAE is model for others to follow as there is need for more platforms for women in public service for them to shine and make a difference.”
She encouraged young women to commit to uplifting others and pursuing justice, opportunity and equality for all. “Seize opportunities and learn from the UAE’s example,” she said.
“Women have to work twice as hard for half the recognition as men but are a strong resilient force,” she noted.
Challenges faced by women globally, she continued, are inequality, security and access to healthcare and education, emphasising on the power of the vote to make their voices heard.
Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is the youngest daughter of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and two-time Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari. This is the first time in the nation’s history that a daughter, and not the wife, of an incumbent president is extended the formal title of the First Lady.
“I have only recently become First Lady, as my father became president, and as a widower, he decided to name his youngest daughter the First Lady in order to fill the role and make sure that we have a strong representative for women and women’s rights," she said.
“My message to young women would be to believe in yourself, remain steadfast in your values, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Leadership is not about privilege and position. It’s shaped by purpose and persistence, and we must remember that the road ahead will be challenging but we must embrace education, foster empathy, commit ourselves to uplifting all those around us.True leadership lies in service to others at the pursuit for justice, opportunity and equality for all. My message to the younger generation would be that you are the architects of a brighter future," she concluded.