Today's Edition
MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)
As the UAE celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, four young Emirati professionals at the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) are exemplifying the country’s humanitarian values and traditions in action. They are proving that Emirati women are not only shaping the nation’s future, but also making tangible impact worldwide.
Their journey with WFP has been made possible through the Humanitarian Leadership Programme in partnership with Dubai Humanitarian and with the financial support of the Dubai Government, who, together with WFP, recognise the importance of empowering young Emirati women and men to contribute to global humanitarian impact.
For Sara Fikree, a Strategic Food Market Analyst, this day is a moment to reflect on how her career with WFP is enabling her personal ambition to make a global difference. A graduate of the London School of Economics, her time abroad reinforced her belief that “Emirati women can succeed anywhere while staying true to themselves.” Now, through her role at WFP, she finds meaning in work that directly supports vulnerable communities and tackles food insecurity.
“Knowing that my work helps save lives gives me a deep sense of purpose,” she said.
The same spirit of service drives Shatha Alqadi, a Procurement Officer, whose inspiration stems both from her mother and the vision of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
“What inspires me most is the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace. His words about women being half of society always stay with me.”
For Shatha, Emirati Women’s Day is “a day of pride and gratitude – a moment to celebrate how far Emirati women have come and to appreciate the opportunities we have today.” At WFP, that outlook translates into her daily work of sourcing and managing resources so life- saving operations can move efficiently and effectively when humanitarian needs surge.
Noor Bukhammas, a Strategic Liaison Officer at WFP’s GCC Global Office, sees the occasion as more than a celebration – it is, she says, a responsibility. Beginning her career as the first Emirati intern at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, she now helps shape WFP’s regional partnership engagement.
“It is a powerful reminder of the responsibility we carry as Emirati women to lead with purpose, compassion, and empathy,” said Noor. She believes Emirati women are “not only participating but leading voices and change-makers in the fight against poverty, hunger, and equitable development worldwide”.
The work of these women, and WFP’s teams around the world, calls for powerful storytellers. That’s where Communications and Media Analyst Amnah Alhashmi brings in her skills, translating complex operations into narratives that build awareness and mobilise support.
“I am most proud of the daily work I do to advance the mission of fighting hunger. By communicating on the actions and initiatives of the World Food Programme, I am not only advocating for the vulnerable communities we serve but also highlighting the importance of collaboration,” Alhashmi said.
For Amnah, Emirati Women’s Day is also deeply personal. “It reminds me of the incredible women who inspire me every day – my family, my mentors, and the trailblazing Emirati women in our community.”
Together, these four women embody the UAE’s proud legacy of empowering women to study, lead and serve.
Their voices reflect a confident generation of Emirati women who carry the nation’s values of compassion, resilience and service far beyond its borders. On this Emirati Women’s Day, their work with WFP stands as powerful proof that the spirit of service instilled at home can resonate across continents, and help to save lives, shape futures and showcase the leadership of Emirati women on a global stage.
