Dubai, November 28, 2024 – The Europe Today: Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, encouraged young women to seize opportunities and draw inspiration from the UAE’s advancements in women’s representation in public service during her address at the Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD) 2024.
Speaking in a session moderated by Hadley Gamble of Al Arabiya, Aseefa emphasized the importance of global platforms like GWFD in fostering policies that empower women to pursue roles in public service.
“The progress made in the UAE is a model for others to follow,” she said, highlighting the need for more opportunities for women to shine and make meaningful contributions. “Women have to work twice as hard for half the recognition as men but are a strong, resilient force,” she added.
High-Profile Attendance
The session was attended by prominent figures, including:
- H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the 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;
- Hala Badri, Director General of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
These leaders reinforced the forum’s commitment to advancing women’s roles across all sectors.
A Call to Action for the Next Generation
Addressing global challenges such as inequality, security, and access to healthcare and education, Aseefa highlighted the transformative power of the vote in amplifying women’s voices. She urged young women to remain steadfast in their values, foster empathy, and commit to uplifting those around them.
“My message to young women would be to believe in yourself, remain steadfast in your values, and never underestimate the power of your voice,” she said. “Leadership is not about privilege and position. It’s shaped by purpose and persistence.”
A Historical First for Pakistan
Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and two-time President Asif Ali Zardari, is the first woman in Pakistan’s history to hold the title of First Lady as a daughter, not the spouse, of the president.
Explaining her role, she said, “I have only recently become First Lady, as my father, a widower, decided to name his youngest daughter to ensure a strong representative for women and women’s rights.”
Inspiring Leadership and Vision
In closing, Aseefa called on the younger generation to envision themselves as architects of a brighter future. “True leadership lies in service to others and the pursuit of justice, opportunity, and equality for all,” she said.
Her words resonated as a powerful reminder of the critical role women play in shaping societies and the global imperative to support their empowerment.
