An initiative made to empower, excel and elevate women in leadership positions in the corporate world
The Kuwait Institute of Banking Studies (KIBS) strategic collaboration with HEC Paris’ Accelerating Women’s Leadership Program is a landmark initiative that was designed to empower women and foster their leadership roles within the banking sector. This collaboration underscores KIBS’s unwavering commitment to aligning with the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) mandate and positions itself as a frontrunner in promoting diversity and gender equality in leadership. As the banking industry continues to prioritize ESG principles, KIBS recognizes the pivotal role it plays in contributing to sustainable and responsible practices.
The second cohort of the Accelerating Women’s Leadership Program that was held at Kuwait’s Waldorf Astoria on Nov. 12 – 16, 2023 was a testament to the banking sector’s dedication to inclusivity and gender diversity. Underpinned by the Central Bank of Kuwait’s directives and the industry’s collective commitment to fostering a diverse and empowered workforce, this collaboration represents a proactive step towards meeting ESG goals and promoting women’s advancement in leadership positions.
Key highlights of the collaboration include ESG mandate alignment as this collaboration reinforces KIBS’s dedication to aligning with the ESG mandate, emphasizing the Institute’s role in driving sustainable practices within the banking sector. The program also stresses leadership development as through the Accelerating Women’s Leadership Program, KIBS seeks to nurture a pipeline of talented women leaders who will contribute to the industry’s growth and sustainability. Due to the Central Bank of Kuwait’s influence, this initiative is in line with the Central Bank of Kuwait’s directives, showcasing KIBS’s commitment to supporting national banking policies and contributing to the advancement of women in leadership roles. KIBS and HEC Paris’ collaboration reflects the industry’s recognition of the importance of diversity and leadership development in achieving long-term sustainability and success. Ms. Rana A. Al Nibari, KIBS Director General, commented, ” By dedicating resources to women’s leadership, we aim not only to meet the ESG mandate but also to mold a future for the banking industry in Kuwait that is more sustainable and resilient.”
Led by Prof. Shaheena Janjuha – Jivraj, an Associate Professor in Entrepreneurial Leadership and Diversity at HEC Paris in Qatar, and Dr. Siham Jouini, Associate Professor of Innovation and Researcher at the GREGHEC, the five-day program included themes that navigate around global business environment, entrepreneurial mindset, innovation, leadership brand, strengthening self-efficacy, resources and resilience and finally, how to become an agent of change. Participants greatly benefited from the experience as they learned how to lead their team to high performance and innovation, prepare their own leadership skills to access new career opportunities, strengthen their impact in building effective relationships with stakeholders across their organization, develop mental agility and an approach to innovation that is diffused across their time and finally, how to develop executive presence with effective verbal and non-verbal skills to communicate with power.
The fourth day of the program including a panelist session that featured Mr. Abdul Aziz Yousef Ali Al Roomi, Executive Manager – Human Resources Group from Boubyan Bank, Ms. Nuhal Al Musallam, KFH’s Products Deputy Manager, and Ms. Mai Alowaish. Gulf Bank’s Chief Data and Innovation Officer. The panelists partook in a Q&A session that was moderated by Prof. Shaheena about the themes presented in the program.
The Kuwait Institute of Banking Studies (KIBS) is a not-for-profit, semi-governmental organization that functions under the auspices of the Central Bank of Kuwait. KIBS offers education, training, language programs and research to serve the developmental needs of the Kuwaiti banking and finance sector.
HEC Paris is a globally recognized leader in executive education, making a lasting impact on organizations through the design and delivery of customized learning solutions. Leverage global resources from their branch campus in Qatar, HEC Paris provides proximity and ensures relevance for organizations operating throughout the region.
For more information about KIBS’ training programs, please visit kibs.edu.kw
