Omani women are fortunate to have strong support from men, says
MARWA AL WADHAHI, athlete and member of the national weightlifting team of Oman, and HSSE communications’ specialist, OQ. Noting that she had personally experienced this support from men on numerous occasions, Marwa added to the Purple online that “This support and partnership across genders are what make Oman’s progress truly remarkable.”
Women excelling
Marwa said that she saw women excelling across a wide range of fields: “From medicine and engineering to business—holding leadership positions at various managerial levels. I personally know Omani women leading organisations and running highly successful private businesses, a trend that continues to grow year by year.”
Sharing success stories
“Sharing these success stories during celebrations like Women’s Day serves as a powerful source of inspiration for others, encouraging women to believe in their potential and pursue their goals,” she said.
EXCERPTS:
Women’s Day generally brings forth many thoughts: women’s equality/gender parity; women’s rights’ and the foremost need to break the bias (against women). Here, in Oman, could we say that it is more than just celebrating womanhood; here it is celebrating the success (various types of success, not just the monetary kind) of Omani women and also the unique integration between the two genders, who are working together to achieve a better future for Oman? Your thoughts on this.
Omani women are fortunate to have been supported by empowering leadership, starting with the reign of our late leader His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said and continuing under the current leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. Historically, we have pioneered in many fields and held prominent positions in the region, and continue to break barriers and enter new arenas. Every year, Omani women celebrate these achievements by hosting numerous events, sharing stories of success, and inspiring others. These celebrations provide role models for future generations, fostering a cycle of empowerment.
I am proud to be part of this journey—both inspiring and being inspired by other women. Additionally, we are fortunate to have strong support from men. Personally, I have experienced this first hand on numerous occasions when I ventured into new fields and received encouragement from men around me. In my current role in HSSE, a traditionally male-dominated field, my boss, a caring and supportive leader, believes in our capabilities and empowers us. Together, we collaborate with pride to serve Oman.This support and partnership across genders are what make Oman’s progress truly remarkable.
How would you view the growth and advancement of Omani women in the last many years? What would you like to say about that?
Women today have more opportunities to grow, even in a world where leadership roles are still predominantly held by men. In Oman, I see women excelling across a wide range of fields—from medicine and engineering to business—holding leadership positions at various managerial levels. I personally know Omani women leading organisations and running highly successful private businesses, a trend that continues to grow year by year. Sharing these success stories during celebrations like Women’s Day serves as a powerful source of inspiration for others, encouraging women to believe in their potential and pursue their goals. Opportunities are out there, but we must actively seek them out, express our ambitions, and take initiative. Growth will naturally come from a continuous desire to self-improve, to learn, and to work hard toward our aspirations. When we stay driven and committed, success will follow.
Also, with regards to the advancement, would you say that today the Omani woman is on par with any other woman of the world? If not, what more should be done?
Oman has made significant strides in terms of advancement, yet there is always room for growth and improvement when we compare ourselves to the global stage. We live in an increasingly competitive and ever-evolving world, and if we don’t actively keep pace, we risk falling behind. For true progress to occur, it’s essential that we have both the support of our government and the collective commitment of the nation.
I believe that when Oman’s vision and strategic direction focus on advancing the nation and its people, and when all citizens are aligned with and invested in that vision, we can achieve remarkable outcomes. Working together, with shared purpose and unity, will enable us to reach new heights of success and innovation.
About:
Marwa Al-Wadhahi is a full-time employee in the energy sector, a part-time CrossFit coach, and a national team athlete. She has a deep passion for sports, adventure, challenges, volunteering, and seeking new experiences. Marwa is driven by a desire to make a positive impact in everything she does.
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