‘Leadership Mentorship Program’ to support and empower Kuwaiti women

• The Leadership Mentorship Program pairs thirty talented women with experienced mentors, offering leadership training, networking and hands-on skills in key sectors such as technology, healthcare, sports, governance, and entrepreneurship.

• The first wave of the program will equip women with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to lead, paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive Kuwait while fostering inclusivity and promoting gender equality across all sectors.

This non-profit initiative proudly operates under the esteemed patronage of Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila, Minister of Social Affairs, Family Affairs, and Childhood. The program is marked by exceptional partnerships and sponsorships from leading local and international organizations, including the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, AmCham, the Public Authority for Disability Affairs (Friends of the Disabled team), Sabah Al Ahmad Center for Giftedness and Creativity, the Youth Public Authority, ICF Kuwait Chapter, Arab Open University, Warba Insurance, the Ministry of Social Affairs, The Times Kuwait, Waldorf Astoria, Veolia, Learn and Evolve, Invictus, Kuwait Times, Kuwait Lawyers Association, and the Martyr’s Office – Al Diwan Al Amiri.

The program embodies a strong vision of empowering Kuwaiti women leaders by offering a comprehensive and unique educational experience that opens new horizons for enhancing leadership and professional capabilities. The initiative aims to empower and qualify women to lead change and excel in various fields.

Eng. Manar Bin Sharar Almutairi, the Leader of Digital Transformation in the Leadership Mentorship Program, stated that “the program is completely digitally transformative, leveraging the latest digital trends to embrace a digital-first approach. Upon completion, participants will receive an e-portfolio that highlights their achievements, performance, and feedback from committee members and mentors. Mentors will also receive similar portfolios, showcasing their contributions in guiding and inspiring mentees on their career journeys.”

While the “Strategic Planning & Implementation” workshop will be hosted by Warba Insurance, with Dr. Jassem Aljezza as the speaker, Arab Open University will host a “Public Communication & Speaking” workshop, with Dr. Khawla Al Hassan leading the session and the “Leadership & Mentorship Coaching” session will be led by Dr. Maleha Al Foderi and hosted by the ICF Kuwait Chapter.

The program will wrap up with a workshop on negotiation skills and conflict resolution, led by Ms. Suha Issac and hosted at the Sabah Al Ahmed Center for Giftedness and Creativity.

Ms. Jamila Al Otaibi, the Chairwoman of the Leadership Mentorship Program, said the program is committed to supporting and empowering Kuwaiti women in line with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This first edition focuses on empowering women leaders, setting the stage for future programs that will expand to include children and men.

The program pairs thirty talented women with experienced mentors, offering leadership training, networking opportunities, and hands-on skills in key sectors such as technology, healthcare, sports, governance, and entrepreneurship.

Paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive Kuwait

The first wave of this program is dedicated to women. This is where the journey starts—equipping women with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities to lead, paving the way for a stronger, more inclusive Kuwait.

When women are empowered, families, communities, and entire nations thrive! Our mission begins with women but will grow to include children and men, creating a ripple effect that will touch every part of society.

Empowering women leaders key for national progress

Empowering women leaders is not just a priority—it’s essential for national progress. By investing in women today, the program will develop leaders who will drive innovation, foster economic growth, and inspire future generations.

The Leadership Mentorship Program focuses on empowering Kuwaiti women in leadership by providing tools and opportunities for growth, fostering mentorship and inclusivity, and promoting gender equality across all sectors.

The program helps equip women with skills in key sectors like technology, healthcare, governance, and entrepreneurship. Through tailored mentorship, hands-on workshops, and real-world experience, the program enables women to innovate, lead, and shape Kuwait’s future.

Driving gender equality

The program enhances the leadership skills of Kuwaiti women through structured workshops, promoting innovation and strategic leadership, and equipping participants with the necessary skills. The program pairs participants with mentors for personalized guidance and provides ongoing support for continuous development.

Supporting Kuwait Vision 2035

The program is a key pillar in Kuwait’s journey toward Vision 2035. By mentoring women in leadership, we are not only promoting gender equality but also building a diversified, sustainable economy that taps into the full potential of our population. Its vision extends beyond this first edition—it’s about creating lasting change and ensuring that every Kuwaiti, regardless of gender or age, has the opportunity to lead. The program will conclude with a “Negotiation & Conflict Resolution” workshop.

How does the program work?

• Mentorship matching: Successfully match 30 trainees with distinguished mentors based on their areas of interest.

• Networking events: Host networking events to facilitate connections between trainees, mentors, and industry leaders.

• Group & individual sessions: Provide both group and individual coaching sessions to address the unique needs of trainees.

• Workshops and training: Organize a series of workshops and training sessions focused on leadership, innovation, and professional skills.

• Impact measurement: Develop metrics to measure the program’s impact on the professional growth and leadership development of trainees.

Program structure

• Trainees: 30 trainees, aged 21 to 45, will be selected based on their leadership potential and commitment to personal growth.

• Mentors: Each trainee will be paired with an experienced mentor from diverse fields, ensuring personalized guidance and support throughout the program.

• Volunteers: A team of young Kuwaiti women volunteers will support the implementation of the program and provide logistical services, ensuring its smooth operation.

• Empowerment partners: Kuwaiti women-owned and led startups, as well as small- and medium-sized enterprises, will play a crucial role in supporting the program and providing additional resources and expertise.

Program overview

The program includes main workshops focused on leadership development, innovation, and professional growth, spanning five weeks. It covers key industries such as technology, healthcare, sports, governance, and entrepreneurship.

Program activities

• Sector-specific mentorship paths: Tailored guidance relevant to each participant’s industry.

• Hands-on leadership training: Practical exercises and challenges designed to build leadership capabilities.

• Communication events: Sessions with embassy leaders, government officials, and business executives.

• Evaluation and feedback: Ongoing progress evaluations and feedback sessions with mentors and coaches.

Program outcomes

The program will focus on measurable results, contributing to the development of future leaders who are well-prepared to take on key roles in both the public and private sectors. Empowering women in leadership positions aligns with Kuwait’s Vision 2035 and reinforces the country’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Empowerment partners: Empowering 20 Kuwaiti women-owned startups and SMEs

• Program success

The program’s success begins even before its official launch by empowering and supporting twenty local companies led by Kuwaiti women. These companies offer essential services or products at discounted prices to our target group of young women.

• Early program success

By supporting these twenty startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we demonstrate our commitment to empowering female leaders in Kuwait, advancing our program’s mission and vision even before its official start.

• Recognition and visibility

Empowerment Partners will have their logos prominently displayed as “Empowerment Partners” in all program materials and events. They will also receive invitations to attend program events and celebrations, enhancing their network and visibility.

• Strengthened network coverage and exposure

Through this partnership, Empowerment Partners gain enhanced network coverage and exposure through our events and media outreach.

• Strategic partnerships

Key partners: The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait and leading public and private sector stakeholders, offering growth and networking opportunities for trainees.

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  Ms. Jamila G. Al-Otaibi, Chairwoman of the Kuwait Youth Assembly Platform, brings her dynamic leadership to the forefront. With a strong background in the healthcare sector, she is actively engaged in youth development initiatives both locally and internationally. Currently pursuing an MBA in International Business from Maastricht University, Ms. Al-Otaibi is also a recognized speaker and thought leader in digital transformation.

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  Dr. Arezou Harraf, Dean of the Business School at Box Hill College and Vice-Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce in Kuwait, has been named Vice-Chairwoman. Holding dual PhDs, Dr. Harraf has made significant contributions to academia and business, particularly in leadership, human resource development, and technology management. She is the founder of “Learn and Evolve” and the author of The Uncensored Leader.BBC