Panel Discussion on Women’s Role in Promoting Civilizational Dialogue and Global Tolerance.

During the 2nd International Dialogue of Civilizations & Tolerance Conference

• Nora Al Shamsi: Women Play a Key Role in Strengthening the Values of Tolerance and Coexistence

The 2nd International Dialogue of Civilizations & Tolerance Conference, organized by Emirates Scholar Center in collaboration with the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, continued for the second consecutive day under the theme “Empowering Youth for a Tolerant Future.” The conference witnessed broad participation from experts and specialists worldwide.

As part of the event, a panel discussion titled “Empowering Voices: The Impact of Women in Promoting Civilizational Dialogue and Global Tolerance” was held. The session explored the vital role of women in fostering intercultural communication and strengthening the values of tolerance and global openness.
The session was moderated by Dr. Shereen Farouk, Associate Vice Chancellor for International Relations and Academic Projects. Sheikha Nora Al Shamsi, Board Member of the Young Leaders Program in the UAE and an entrepreneur, spoke about how civilizational dialogue goes beyond words; it serves as a means to build understanding and strengthen relationships among different cultures, paving the way for new opportunities in cooperation and development. She highlighted the pivotal role of women in leading this dialogue and promoting tolerance and coexistence, whether in professional fields, within families, or in society.

Sheikha Nora explained that she was raised with a deep understanding of the importance of dialogue and communication, recalling her mother’s advice to always remain open to different cultures. She stressed that success in any field depends on interacting with others, regardless of differences, while respecting the values and principles that define each culture.

She further emphasized that women’s empowerment does not begin in the workplace alone but starts within the family, where women can raise a generation that values inclusive dialogue. She reiterated that empowering women is not an individual goal but a fundamental pillar in building prosperous and interconnected societies. When women are given opportunities, they can direct conversations toward greater understanding and rapprochement between nations.

Sheikha Nora encouraged every woman to believe in her abilities and work on empowering herself and those around her, beginning at home, where values are instilled, then within the community, and ultimately across the world. She asserted that building a more tolerant world starts with small circles and expands across generations.

The session featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Dr. Dima Rashid Jamal, Vice President for Academic Affairs at the Canadian University in Dubai; Shannon Siban, Member of the City Council of Rosny-sous-Bois; Dr. Sabrina Moura, Director of Research and Development at the Louvre Abu Dhabi; and Huda Raphael Sievers, a researcher and advocate for tolerance.

Discussions focused on the crucial role of women in fostering civilizational dialogue and their contribution to building more inclusive and tolerant societies. Experts shared successful initiatives across various academic and cultural sectors, highlighting the need for a supportive environment that enables women to amplify their influence in promoting tolerance and coexistence. This, in turn, helps establish more diverse and harmonious communities.