Women in Management Maldives (WIM Maldives) has partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to co-host the ‘Professional & Career Women Awards 2024’, aimed at fostering women’s leadership in business across the Maldives.
This year marks the sixth edition of the awards, which celebrate Maldivian women who have excelled in their careers, businesses, and daily lives. Since its inception, over 170 women from diverse fields such as banking, hospitality, media, law, and logistics have been recognized.
WIM Maldives highlighted that these awards underscore the vital role women play as employees, entrepreneurs, and business leaders in driving transformative change.
Dr. Sulochana Segera, Founder and Chairperson of Women in Management, emphasized that IFC’s partnership will open new opportunities for skilled Maldivian women to contribute to inclusive economic growth. “The vision of the ‘Professional & Career Women Awards’ goes beyond celebrating women leaders—it’s about inspiring the next generation by providing role models who exemplify achievement, status, and success,” she said.
Wender Werner, IFC Country Head for India and Maldives, noted that the awards will highlight the remarkable achievements of Maldivian women, inspiring progress across sectors. “Addressing barriers to women’s economic empowerment is essential. When more women participate in the workforce, economies grow,” she added.
Despite progress, challenges persist in achieving gender equality in the Maldives. WIM noted that the female labor force participation rate remains at 43%, compared to 79% for men, with most women employed in the informal sector. Increasing women’s participation and leadership in business is critical for fostering resilient and inclusive growth.
With a presence in Sri Lanka, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, the ‘Professional & Career Women Awards’ provide a platform for winners to propel their careers or businesses. The awards also inspire aspiring women from various backgrounds to seize opportunities and strive for greater success.
This year’s judging panel will be chaired by Fathimath Manike, Director of Development Banking at the Bank of Maldives, and includes notable professionals such as Abdul Latheef, President of SME Federation Maldives; Manoji Wadugodapitiya, Managing Director of PAMS Hydro Group, Sri Lanka; Mariyam Waheeda, Permanent Member of Maldives Scout and Guide Fellowship; Pramita Ray, Gender Specialist for South Asia at IFC; and Dr. Ravi Dissanayake, Professor of Marketing Management at the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
