In an initiative aimed at fostering gender diversity and nurturing female leadership in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the 30% Club MENA Chapter has launched its inaugural Senior Mentoring Programme. This groundbreaking program is designed to empower professional women from across the MENA region and provide them with the guidance and mentorship needed to advance their careers and contribute to greater gender balance in leadership roles.The 30% Club: A Global Movement for Gender DiversityThe 30% Club is a global campaign led by Chairs, CEOs, and industry leaders committed to increasing gender diversity in boardrooms and senior management positions. Introduced to the MENA region in 2015, the MENA Chapter of the 30% Club has been instrumental in advocating for greater female representation at the highest levels of corporate leadership.Empowering Women for the FutureAs part of its ongoing commitment to promote gender diversity and bridge the gender gap in leadership, the MENA Chapter has launched the Senior Mentoring Programme. This initiative seeks to pair senior industry professionals with talented women who have demonstrated exceptional potential in their respective fields.
These women represent a promising pool of future board members who can drive meaningful change within their organizations.The Role of MentoringMentoring plays a pivotal role in personal and professional development, and this program harnesses its power to elevate women in the corporate world. Experienced mentors, both men and women, are eager to share their knowledge and expertise with mentees while upholding strict rules of confidentiality. The aim is to build trust, encourage mutual respect, and create a supportive environment where mentees can thrive.The Reach of ReachCollaborating with Reach, a non-profit organization registered at the Dubai International Financial Centre, the 30% Club has established a structured platform for the mentoring program. Reach, founded by four accomplished professional women based in Dubai, is dedicated to producing a new generation of female leaders in the Middle East. By providing a structured mentoring program, Reach aims to foster continuity and ensure that future generations of women continue to break barriers and shatter glass ceilings.
Supporting Partners and OrganizationsThe launch of the Senior Mentoring Programme has garnered support from various organizations and partners, including Dentons, PwC Middle East, the GCC Board Directors Institute, Boardlist, and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). These partners offer coaching, accreditation opportunities, governance training, launch support, and access to board and speaking engagements. Their collective commitment reflects the shared goal of advancing gender diversity in the corporate world.Overcoming Challenges Amidst the PandemicWhile the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented challenges in terms of physical gatherings and face-to-face interactions, it has not deterred the program’s progress. Geographically diverse mentors and mentees hailing from the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and other nations in the region have embraced virtual connectivity. This adaptation demonstrates the resilience and determination of both mentors and mentees to continue fostering growth and development despite challenging circumstances.Shaping a Gender-Balanced FutureThe 30% Club MENA Chapter’s Senior Mentoring Programme represents a significant stride towards achieving gender diversity and equity in corporate leadership.
By nurturing the talents of professional women and providing them with valuable mentorship, the program is sowing the seeds of a more gender-balanced future. As these women ascend to leadership roles, they will play a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of business and leadership in the MENA region.ConclusionThe Senior Mentoring Programme initiated by the 30% Club MENA Chapter is a testament to the commitment of leaders and professionals across the region to champion gender diversity and empower women to reach their full potential. It is a visionary step towards a future where corporate boardrooms and senior management positions are truly reflective of the diversity and talent that exists in the MENA business landscape.
