Let us create a world where gender equality is not an aspiration but a reality: Eugene Mayne

Collective action remains a driving force in the push for gender equality, ensuring that progress is both inclusive and sustainable, highlighted Eugene Mayne, Founder and CEO of Tristar Group, in his welcome note at the Future Women Leaders Forum 2025. Emphasising the need for continued efforts, he stated, “Every step we take to support women’s rights is a step towards a more just and equitable society.”

The Future Women Leaders Forum, organised by Gulf News and BeingShe, is currently underway at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, marking International Women’s Day with an incredible line-up of speakers from various sectors. The event celebrates the achievements of inspiring women leaders who have overcome challenges and continue to motivate others to reach new heights in their careers.

Tristar Group, a Dubai-based global leader in energy logistics and a long-time supporter of women’s advancement in the workplace and leadership, has partnered with Gulf News and BeingShe to present this exclusive forum.

Reflecting on the history of gender equality, Mayne acknowledged the contributions of trailblazing women, from Susan B. Anthony’s fight for women’s suffrage in the 1850s to modern advocates like Jameela Jamil, who encourages women to define their worth beyond societal expectations. “These victories are not just personal triumphs but milestones that have shifted societal norms and expanded what is possible for every woman and girl born today,” he said.

Despite these achievements, Mayne spoke about the ongoing struggles that women face, including unequal pay, discrimination, and the fight for equal representation in leadership.

Mayne stressed the need for tangible efforts to break systemic barriers, support women-led initiatives, and create opportunities that drive real change.

He urged everyone to commit to the cause. “Together, let us continue to push forward, break barriers, and create a world where gender equality is not an aspiration but a reality.”

While delivering her keynote address, The UAE as a role model for gender balance, Sanaa Ouahmane, CEO of AWR Mobility Services & AWR Trading, said that the UAE stands as a model where vision meets action, showing that when you invest in women, you accelerate the success of an entire nation.

 “In just a few decades, the UAE has achieved what many thought impossible. It ranks first in the Arab world for gender equality.”

She pointed out that this remarkable success was a result of a clear vision and policies put into action by leaders who truly believed in the potential of women.

“This success did not happen by chance, it was the result of a clear vision, key policies, and leaders who believed in the potential of women,” she said.

According to Ouahmane, gender equality is deeply embedded in the fabric of the UAE, making it a standard that many other countries still strive to achieve.

“Gender equality is also established at every level, transforming it into a standard many nations still strive to achieve,” she said.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Ouahmane shared how her experiences working across multiple regions, including Europe, the Middle East, and the Gulf, have shown her that the UAE provides a unique environment for growth.

“Having worked across multiple countries across Europe, the Middle East and the Gulf, I can positively say that the UAE is the one place that truly allows you to reach your full potential with its infrastructure, policies, and vision.”

Meanwhile, Tina Bhakthavalsalan, Head of Commercial Partnerships & Events, Gulf News, spoke about the UAE’s role as a global leader in gender balance, crediting the nation’s visionary leadership for driving progress.

“The UAE stands as a beacon of progress in this global movement. Thanks to the visionary leadership of the nation, the UAE has emerged as a global leader in gender balance, actively promoting sustainability and inclusivity in leadership.”

She pointed out that the Future Women Leaders Forum goes beyond discussion – it’s a platform actively shaping the future of women in leadership.

“Accelerating the push for equality is not just our theme for this year’s forum – it’s a call to action. A movement that urges us all – leaders, change-makers, and pioneers – to continue breaking barriers, challenging norms, and creating opportunities where they have historically been scarce.”

Presenting partner of the event is Tristar, Support Partner is Veloche, Venue Partner is InterContinental Festival City, Fragrance Partner is Miss Armaf, Gifting Partners are Lush, Ahmad Tea and Chocodate, Flower Partner is Arpan Flowers, AV Partner of the event is AV Lords, and Trophy Partner is Crystal Gallery.