Oryx Publishing & Advertising hosted the first ever Qatar Today Women of the Year awards on October 30, 2017, at The St. Regis Doha, in partnership with the Qatari Business Women Association (QBWA).

The first-ever awards night celebrated their accomplishments and contributions to society, thereby supporting the Qatar National Vision 2030. The first of its kind here in Qatar, the awards night celebrates Qatari women who have broken glass ceilings, removed barriers for other women, and inspired future generations of women to maximize their contribution to the Qatari economy.

Ghazala Mohammad, Events Manager at Oryx, and organizer of the Qatar Today Women of the Year 2017 awards, said: "Recipients of these awards are women from various sectors, from public service to business owners, who have achieved success against all odds. With longstanding support from Qatari Businesswomen Association, a very prominent organization, I am sure this award will continue to be a distinguished event that inspires the next generation, fuels passion, and galvanizes women to be a force for change.”

The nominations, shortlisted by the judges, were collected on September 28. The judging panel’s first meeting was held on October 4 at The St. Regis Doha, where the judges made their nominations for each category. After discussing the nominees, the judges gave scores to each nominee based on leadership, impact, creativity, resilience, and commitment. The judging panel met again on October 9 for the final time to seal the names of the winners, which will remain confidential till the night of the awards.

The judging panel is composed of individuals from a wide range of sectors who brought their intimate knowledge of Qatar’s business and social landscape to the table, in both nominating and deciding the ultimate winner, in a thoroughly impartial and transparent manner.

The panel included Aisha Al Bedeed, Board Member of QBWA and Brand Owner of Darz Design; Amal Al Aathem, Board Member of QBWA, Counselor in the Ministry of Culture and Sports, and Chairwoman of 7th Heaven Arts; Mishael Al Ansari, Board Member of QBWA and Managing Partner of Oishi Sushi; Aysha Al Romaihi, Business Development Manager at Qatar Business Incubation Centre (QBIC); Reem Al Suwaidi, General Manager of Bedaya Center; and Lolwa Al Marri, President of the Qatar Women Sports Committee (QWSC).

The entire ILoveQatar.net team would like to congratulate the following amazing winners;

• Inspirational Woman of the Year

This award honors women whose forward thinking and innovative ideas and awe-inspiring approach have made them a source of inspiration for many. This award goes to Eman Al Obaidly.

• Entrepreneur of the Year

This award honors women who are marching forward in the world of business, and making their mark in whatever industry they are in. This award goes to Haya Al Ghanem.

• Humanitarian of the Year

This award honors women exhibiting the passion, dedication and selflessness needed to make a difference in the lives of others. This award goes to Ameera Al Nuaimi.

• Medical Pioneer of the Year

This award honors women who have made significant contributions in the field of medicine in Qatar. This award goes to Dr Basema Al Houri.

• Sportswoman of the Year

This award celebrates women who have given outstanding performances in sports. This award goes to Roza Saleh.

• Creative Woman of the Year

This award brings to fore women who have helped shape the face of arts and culture in the region, from fashion and design to literature and art. This award goes to Naila Al Thani.

• Young Talent of the Year

This award celebrates the extraordinary talents of women aged 25 and under. This award goes to Amal Al Muftah.

• Hospitality Pioneer of the Year

This award honors women who have made significant contributions in the field of hospitality and tourism in Qatar. The award goes to Amal Al Shammari.

• Engineer of the Year

This award honors women who have proven that engineering is no longer a boy’s club. This award goes to Mariam Al Bishri.

• Technocrat of the Year

This award honors women who are leading the race in helping Qatar take the digital leap in the world of technology. This award goes to Fatima Al Kuwari.

• Qatar Today Woman of the Year

Oryx presented this special award to HE Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Minister of Public Health, who has excelled in the healthcare sector for years and guided the country to the pinnacle of success in this sector. She served as the managing director of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) before being appointed Minister of Public Health in January 2016. Since joining HMC in 1996, HE Dr Hanan has worked on improving human resources and organ donation.

• She’s Mercedes

‘She’s Mercedes’ is the canvas of this idea: a circle of inspiration; a place where women can connect and exchange ideas, share experiences and learn from one another. It’s a hub for meaningful conversation, offering new perspectives and supporting ambitions. ‘She’s Mercedes’ is a platform dedicated to inspiring, connecting and empowering women to unleash their best. This award goes to Asmaa Al Thani.

What women in our community here in Qatar inspire you? Drop us a line in the comments below and tell us your thoughts! Also, don’t forget to like and share this article.

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ILQ Staff

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