What does it mean to you to serve as a jury member for the Woman of the Year Awards 2026? Serving as a jury member is both an honour and a responsibility. It offers an opportunity to recognise women making a meaningful difference through their leadershipa, resilience and contributions to Bahrain. The role is not simply about selecting winners. It involves understanding the journeys behind each achievement and ensuring every nomination is considered fairly. I hope to celebrate women whose dedication and courage inspire others to pursue their ambitions and create positive change. What are your thoughts on the awards and their role in recognising and celebrating women’s achievements in Bahrain? I believe these awards play a role beyond recognising individual success. They give visibility to women whose achievements might otherwise go unnoticed, from prominent leaders to those contributing through their professions, businesses, communities and personal initiatives. This recognition creates role models and encourages younger women to see leadership as attainable. It also shifts the conversation from empowerment to impact by highlighting the value, expertise, ideas and leadership women bring to Bahrain’s continued development. How has your career journey shaped the professional you are today? My career across banking, finance, investment and leadership has taught me the importance of resilience, integrity and continuous learning. Working across different institutions and holding leadership and board responsibilities broadened my understanding of business and responsible decision-making. I have also learnt that leadership involves developing people, embracing change and creating opportunities for others to succeed. What experience and expertise do you bring to the jury panel? I bring more than three decades of experience in banking, finance, investment, corporate leadership, entrepreneurship and board governance. I also established Bahrain’s first start-up accelerator. Leading and working with diverse organisations has given me a broad understanding of business performance, innovation and strategic decision-making, alongside an appreciation for the varied paths women take towards success. What qualities, achievements and personal values will you look for when assessing this year’s nominees? I will look beyond professional titles to consider authentic leadership, meaningful impact, resilience, integrity and commitment. Each nominee’s achievements should be viewed within the context of her journey, including the challenges she has overcome, the opportunities she has created and the people she has inspired. I will particularly value women who use their influence to empower others and create lasting change. What message would you like to share with the women nominated for the Woman of the Year Awards 2026? Congratulations to every nominee. Being nominated is itself recognition of the contribution you have made through your work, leadership and impact. Success rarely follows an easy or straightforward path; it is often shaped by difficult decisions, uncertainty and the courage to continue. Never underestimate the difference you can make, whether you lead an organisation, build a business or serve your community. Continue supporting other women, sharing your experience and opening doors. Regardless of the outcome, be proud of your achievements and continue leading with integrity, purpose, courage and compassion. Is there anything else you would like to add? I would emphasise the importance of celebrating women not only for their achievements, but also for the values, determination and purpose behind their journeys. Recognition is most meaningful when it creates a ripple effect, encouraging recipients to give back, mentor others and create opportunities for the next generation. Through this collective effort, we can build a stronger and more inclusive future. A veteran Bahraini banking leader, investor and entrepreneur, joins the Woman of the Year Awards 2026 jury, bringing decades of experience championing women’s leadership, progress and innovation. Sabah Almoayyed womanthismonth.com | SEPTEMBER 2026 WOTYA 2026 78
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