Our community partner Women of Qatar shares its vision

Web Summit Qatar community partner Women of Qatar is a platform dedicated to sharing the inspiring success stories of Qatari women across business, academia, sports and more.

Ahead of Web Summit Qatar, we sat down with Women of Qatar founder and editor Al Jawhara Al-Thani to learn more about why Al Jawhara established this project and what it has been achieving recently.

Al Jawhara, can you tell us about Women of Qatar?

Women of Qatar, founded in 2016, embodies my commitment to showcasing the diverse narratives and accomplishments of Qatari women.

Beyond mere documentation, this platform serves as a dynamic repository of inspiration, ensuring that the stories of these remarkable individuals are not only preserved but also readily available for all to explore.

Our mission is twofold: first, to celebrate the myriad roles and achievements of Qatari women, highlighting their resilience, innovation, and leadership across various domains.

Second, and perhaps more importantly, we aim to provide young Qatari women and girls with accessible role models from their own communities.

By sharing the journeys of those who have come before them, we aim to instill a sense of possibility and ambition, empowering the next generation to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.

What kinds of initiatives are undertaken by Women of Qatar?

At present, Women of Qatar primarily focuses on documenting the narratives of Qatari women through oral interviews conducted by myself.

While we do not currently administer any specific programmes, we actively engage with local events and initiatives centred around women and gender-related issues.

Our participation in these events allows us to contribute to broader conversations and amplify the voices and experiences of Qatari women within the community.

What was the inspiration behind setting up Women of Qatar?

The inspiration behind setting up Women of Qatar stemmed from a deeply felt desire to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness among women on their individual journeys.

Witnessing the struggles and challenges faced by women, I recognised the importance of fostering a sense of community and solidarity. By sharing personal stories of perseverance and resilience, the platform aims to uplift and empower Qatari women, creating stronger bonds and connections within the community. 

Ultimately, Women of Qatar strives to be a beacon of support, inspiration, and unity, empowering women to navigate life’s challenges with courage and determination.

What is your favourite part of working on this project?

My favourite part of working on this project is undoubtedly the opportunity to meet and interact with incredible Qatari women.

Each encounter is a source of inspiration, reaffirming the resilience, strength and creativity within our community. Moreover, collaborating with my dedicated team to bring these stories to our audience is immensely rewarding.

Together, we have the privilege of amplifying the voices and experiences of Qatari women. 

How did you become involved with Web Summit Qatar?

I was delighted to become involved with Web Summit Qatar through a direct outreach from Carmen Antiqueira, the Web Summit community manager, in September 2023.

Carmen expressed a keen interest in fostering greater female representation within the event, and I was enthusiastic about leveraging the platform to connect with the vibrant community of women in Qatar, particularly those with expertise in the tech industry.

This collaboration provided an invaluable opportunity to amplify the voices and contributions of Qatari women in a global forum, furthering the mission of empowerment and inclusivity.

What are your plans for Web Summit Qatar?

My plans for Web Summit Qatar primarily revolve around networking and active engagement with the diverse array of discussions and topics being presented.

I aim to attend as many sessions as possible, leveraging this opportunity to connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and industry experts. I hope to gain valuable insights and forge meaningful connections.

Is there any message you would like Women of Qatar attendees to take away from our event?

As the Women of Qatar attendees navigate Web Summit Qatar, my hope is that they embrace the opportunity to showcase their brilliance and expertise on a global stage.

Letting their voices be heard and their talents shine not only highlights the immense capabilities of Qatari women but also inspires and empowers others to do the same. Together, let’s illuminate the world with the radiant brilliance of Qatari women!

How can people get involved with Women of Qatar?

Getting involved with Women of Qatar is easy and highly encouraged. You can reach out to us through our website’s contact page, or connect with us on Instagram at @womenofqatar.

We welcome and value new ideas, collaborations and partnerships, whether you have stories to share, ideas for collaboration, or simply want to engage in conversations. 

Meet Women of Qatar members at Web Summit Qatar or find out more on the official website.

Main image: Web Summit