WIM honors 26 women with the Professional and Career Women Awards

The Professional and Career Women Awards 2024 has recognised the achievements of 26 women, acknowledging their contributions to various fields across the Maldives.

This initiative, which is supported under EU’s regional initiative 'Accelerating Climate Smart and Inclusive Infrastructure in South Asia (ACSIIS)', demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women economically.

The 6th edition of the Awards celebrated women representing diverse professions such as banking and finance, hospitality, media, legal, logistics and supply chains, entrepreneurship, amongst others, for their outstanding achievements and inspiring influence on their communities. The event also recognized Maldivian organizations that have played a pivotal role in promoting women’s business leadership and growth.

"The Professional & Career Women Awards in the Maldives celebrate a decade-long partnership between WIM and IFC, now extended with EU’s support to promote sustainability and diversity. WIM Maldives is committed to empowering the 2024 Award winners to become role models for equitable and inclusive workplaces. This collaboration underscores our shared vision for women’s leadership as a cornerstone of sustainable growth," said Sulochana Segera, Founder and Chairperson of Women in Management (WIM).

With over 50 nominations, the judging, which was conducted purely based on merit, was chaired by Fathimath Manike, Development Banking Director at Bank of Maldives. Joining her on the panel are Abdul Latheef, President of SME Federation Maldives; Manoji Wadugodapitiya, Managing Director of PAMS Hydro Group, Sri Lanka; Mariam Waheeda, Permanent Member of Maldives Scout and Guide Fellowship; Pramita Ray, Gender Specialist for South Asia at IFC; and Dr. Ravi Dissanayake, Professor in the Department of Marketing Management, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

“Women, especially women of color, face barriers to leadership often imposed by systems that fear their potential. I want my daughters to grow up seeing women in leadership as a reality, not just a dream. Equality is not just a women’s issue—it’s a social issue that requires men to stand with women and challenge systems of oppression. When women lead, everyone thrives.” She also highlighted, “Even in a geographically dispersed country like ours, women are breaking barriers and leading their communities. This year’s awards, held in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation and the European Union, mark a significant step toward advancing gender equality and creating lasting change in the Maldives and beyond," Speaking at the event, Minha Faiz Rashaad, President of WIM Maldives stated.

The ‘Professional and Career Women Awards – Maldives’ was powered by gold sponsor – Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), partner – Medtech, Supporting Partner – Maldives National University, host partner – Kurumba Maldives and media partner – One Media Group.

With over 170 past award winners from Maldives, the ‘Professional and Career Women Awards – Maldives’ aims to showcase the significant role women play as leaders, employees, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in contributing to sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the country.

All The Award Winners at the Professional and Career Women Awards – Maldives