Pakistan’s First Lady joins India's Aishwarya Rai at Dubai Global Women’s Forum 2024 (VIDEOS)
Over 6,000 dignitaries attended, emphasising women’s rights and empowerment
DUBAI: The Global Women’s Forum 2024 in Dubai brought together influential leaders from across the globe, including Pakistan’s First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari and Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
The event, held under the patronage of UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, drew over 6,000 dignitaries and advocates focused on advancing women’s rights, empowerment, and gender balance.
Notable guests at the event included UAE First Lady Emine Erdogan, First Lady of the Philippines Louise Marcos, and prominent influencers such as beauty mogul Huda Kattan and lawyer Camille Vasquez. These figures played key roles in discussing women’s issues worldwide, emphasising innovation, partnership, and societal impact.
Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari's address
Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari delivered a powerful address, advocating for women’s contributions in Pakistan. Speaking at the forum, she said, “Women in Pakistan are making significant strides despite facing challenges. Their resilience is a beacon of hope for future generations.” Her remarks highlighted the importance of amplifying women’s voices and ensuring their participation across all sectors, both in Pakistan and globally.
During the event, Aseefa met with Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. The meeting focused on fostering collaborations between Pakistan and Dubai in the fields of cultural exchange and women’s empowerment.
Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari also took part in a conversation with Hadley Gamble of Al Arabiya at the forum, where she spoke on the importance of global events like GWFD in formulating policies that encourage women’s participation in public service. “Progress made in the UAE is a model for others to follow, as there is a need for more platforms for women in public service to shine and make a difference,” she said. She encouraged young women to seize opportunities and learn from the UAE’s example of success in women’s representation. “Women have to work twice as hard for half the recognition as men but are a strong resilient force,” Aseefa added, emphasising the power of women to overcome barriers.
She continued, “My message to young women would be to believe in yourself, remain steadfast in your values, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Leadership is not about privilege and position. It’s shaped by purpose and persistence, and we must remember that the road ahead will be challenging, but we must embrace education, foster empathy, and commit ourselves to uplifting all those around us. True leadership lies in service to others at the pursuit of justice, opportunity, and equality for all.”
Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari is the youngest daughter of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and two-time Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari. As the First Lady of Pakistan, she holds a historic position in the country as the first daughter of an incumbent president to be formally named First Lady, a role she assumed after her father, Asif Ali Zardari, became president. Aseefa has become a prominent advocate for women’s rights, education, and empowerment in Pakistan and beyond. She has also been involved in various humanitarian and social causes, continuing the legacy of her mother, Benazir Bhutto, who was the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan stuns in blue
Indian actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan dazzled the audience with her striking appearance at the event. Dressed in an elegant blue gown with silver embellishments, Aishwarya’s look was regal and sophisticated.
The Bollywood superstar, who is married to Abhishek Bachchan, addressed the audience, speaking about the importance of “the power of partnerships, innovations, and determinations” in driving women’s empowerment.
Her advocacy for women's rights was further demonstrated during her participation in the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, where she stated, “Street harassment is never your fault. Stand up for your worth, and never compromise.”
Her message reinforced the need for women to confront such challenges with confidence and assertiveness.
Cultural Dinner
The Dubai Women Establishment organised a cultural dinner on November 26, celebrating the city’s rich heritage. Held at the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, the exclusive event honoured distinguished guests, including First Ladies and influential global leaders.
Fatima Behzad, a member of the organising committee, remarked, “The dinner offers a unique blend of history, culture, and inspiring stories, showcasing Dubai’s rich cultural heritage.”
Emirati Women’s Artistry
The dinner was complemented by an art exhibition featuring the works of Emirati female artists. This cultural immersion aligned with the forum’s overarching theme of empowering women through partnerships that bridge historical, cultural, and societal gaps.
Global Women’s Forum 2024 Themes
The 2024 edition of the Global Women’s Forum centred on three key themes: Future Economies and Societies, Collective Engagements and Actions, and Impactful Technologies and Innovations. These discussions provided actionable strategies to empower women in diverse sectors, including economic participation and leadership in technology.
The forum served as a key platform for global leaders to discuss solutions to advance women’s rights and gender equality. It also provided a space for cross-border collaborations to foster change and ensure that women’s contributions are recognised and supported in every aspect of society.
With influential figures like Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan taking centre stage, the event underscored the importance of continued advocacy for women’s rights. As Aishwarya said, “Women must stand up for their worth, look challenges in the eye, and never doubt their value.”
The forum left participants with a renewed sense of purpose to create a future where gender equality is a reality for all.