Emirati Women's Day: CUD Highlights The Role Of Women Leading Sustainable Initiatives

As the UAE celebrates Emirati Women's Day today, Canadian University Dubai (CUD) Associate Professor Dr. Naseem Abdulla and Environmental Health Management graduate Maisa Alzayyani highlight the significant contributions of women in the public sector towards achieving the vision 'We the UAE 2031’. Dr. Abdulla, Acting CEO of EHS and Director of Health & Safety at Dubai Municipality, mentors emerging leaders like Alzayyani to enhance public health and sustainability.

Dr. Abdulla's career spans over 17 years at Dubai Municipality, where she integrates academic insights into practical applications. She states, "My experience as an Associate Professor at CUD has been invaluable in shaping my approach to public service and leadership, equipping me with the skills and perspectives necessary to drive positive change in our communities." Her academic background has honed her critical thinking and research abilities, which inform her decision-making.

Emirati Women’s Role in Sustainability

Reflecting on the extension of the Year of Sustainability to 2024 and the continuation of Emirati Women's Day theme, 'We Share for Tomorrow’, Alzayyani believes that Emirati women are recognized as strategic partners in advancing the nation's sustainability agenda. She says, "Emirati women have excelled in various fields, demonstrating leadership in sustainability and contributing to innovative solutions." Their achievements were evident at Expo 2020 Dubai, COP 28, and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Abdulla's notable projects include leading the COVID-19 crisis committee and delivering the 'Our School is Healthy & Safe’ initiative with CUD’s Department of Public Health. This initiative educated students and staff on school safety, creating Junior Ambassadors for Health and Safety who promote well-being beyond school into their homes and communities.

Education as a Catalyst

Dr. Abdulla emphasizes education's role in preparing future workforces. She encouraged Alzayyani to pursue a Bachelor's degree at CUD. Starting in the planning department, Alzayyani transitioned to public health, recognizing its importance for sustainable development in the UAE. Inspired by her line manager, she specialized in public health and food safety at CUD.

Alzayyani shares her journey: "As a working mother and dedicated professional, I was apprehensive about balancing work commitments, motherhood, and educational aspirations." With support from CUD faculty, family, work mentors, and line managers, she overcame challenges. Before graduating from CUD, she was a regular employee without managerial experience but climbed ranks to become Head of a Unit at Dubai Municipality’s Public Health Department.

Leadership and Mentorship

Dr. Abdulla has received several national and international leadership awards. She envisions Emirati women playing crucial roles in achieving UAE's 2031 vision by contributing diverse perspectives to decision-making processes. She says, "I see Emirati women as crucial to achieving the UAE's 2031 vision." Their involvement fosters innovation and sustainability across sectors.

Motivating Alzayyani and other aspiring leaders, Dr. Abdulla highlights public service's unique opportunity to make a tangible difference. She advises future leaders: "By engaging in public service, you become part of the collective effort to build a better future." Contributions can drive positive change and enhance community well-being.

Alzayyani now aspires to take on a leadership role within her field to continue advancing her career. She believes that Emirati women will keep supporting development through family dynamics or influential leadership positions in environmental matters.

The collaboration between academia and government exemplified by Dr. Abdulla’s career demonstrates how education can shape effective public service leaders committed to sustainability goals aligned with national visions.