Qatar Shell celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 in Doha, bringing employees and external guests together at the Qatar Shell Research and Technology Centre. The event was framed around the theme “Powerful Together,” emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in fostering inclusivity across various genders, organizations, and communities.
Empowering Voices Through Collaborative Action
Organized by the Qatar Shell Women’s Association and Network under the leadership of Maryam Rowhani, the event included opening remarks, a panel discussion, and engaging interactive activities. The goal was to inspire reflection, connection, and shared experiences among attendees. By creating a platform for dialogue, attendees had the opportunity to discuss crucial topics centered around inclusion and diversity.
Inclusive Leadership in Focus
The panel discussion served as a focal point, highlighting the significance of inclusive leadership within the engineering and technical fields. Industry leaders shared their insights regarding innovation, leadership geared towards people, and best practices in industrial operations. Conversations revealed that inclusive leadership is not merely a concept but rather a series of everyday choices and actions that can profoundly influence individual careers and life stages.
The discussions underscored the necessity of diverse teams and a supportive workplace culture to drive enhanced performance and innovation. Companies that prioritize inclusion are more likely to cultivate environments where everyone can flourish, leading to better outcomes for the organization as a whole.
Engagement and Inspiration Beyond the Stage
The gathering went beyond traditional panels, featuring various in-person activities aimed at fostering broader engagement. Highlights included a showcase for women entrepreneurs, where innovative female-led businesses were highlighted. A lively interactive quiz celebrated inspiring women from the community, allowing attendees to connect personally with stories of achievement. Adding to the event’s impact was the “Powerful Together” commitment wall, where participants shared actionable steps they could undertake to further promote inclusion in their own environments.
Recognition and Commitment to Inclusion
Rob Maxwell, EVP and Country Chair of Qatar, expressed that International Women’s Day serves not just as a celebration but also as a platform to reflect on the crucial contributions women make within the organization and the broader community. He emphasized that meaningful progress in inclusion can only occur when it becomes an integral part of daily practices—how decisions are made and how collaboration takes place.
Set within the Qatar Shell Research and Technology Centre (QSRTC), a hub for research and innovation established in 2008 at the Qatar Science & Technology Park, the event created an appropriate atmosphere for fostering dialogue around such important discussions. QSRTC aligns with Shell’s commitment to advancing technology and innovation within the energy sector, making it a fitting backdrop for an event centered on empowering voices and driving change.
Qatar Shell’s initiative on this significant day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward inclusivity. By facilitating conversations that matter and encouraging action, the organization contributes to a culture where everyone can feel valued and empowered, ultimately benefiting not just the company but society as a whole.