Canon Middle East, a leading imaging solutions provider, has launched the “Women Who Empower” initiative in Saudi Arabia, partnering with AlNahda, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to women’s empowerment.
This program aims to empower Saudi women by providing specialized photography, videography, printing, and lighting training. By equipping women with these essential skills, the initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of increasing female workforce participation to 30%.
Mai Youssef – Corporate Communications and Marketing Services Director – Canon Middle East, Turkey, and Canon Central and North Africa, said “As Saudi Arabia continues its remarkable transformation under Vision 2030, Canon is proud to empower Saudi women in the creative and printing sectors. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering local talent and aligns perfectly with the Kingdom’s goals of creating a diverse, knowledge-based economy. With women’s workforce participation in Saudi Arabia growing from 17% in 2017 to 35% today, we’re excited to help accelerate this positive trend through specialized training and mentorship.”
The program leverages Canon’s extensive expertise in imaging solutions and will feature workshops led by industry experts, including renowned photographers and content creators. Participants will receive comprehensive training in modern printing technologies, professional photography techniques, and digital content creation, preparing them for careers in these rapidly growing sectors.
AlNahda, established in 1963 and officially accredited by the UN ECOSOC (United Nations Economic and Social Council) in June 2019, has been at the forefront of women’s social and economic empowerment in Saudi Arabia. The organization’s vision of making women effective partners in Saudi society’s development makes them an ideal partner for Canon’s Women Who Empower initiative.
Dr. Miznah Omair Alomair, CEO of AlNahda Society said, “At Alnahda, we believe in creating pathways for women to participate actively in Saudi Arabia’s transformation. This collaboration with Canon provides our members with industry-leading expertise and practical skills in the creative sector. For six decades, we have championed women’s advancement, and this initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to build capabilities and create opportunities for women to reach leadership positions across all sectors.”
Canon Middle East’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its regional achievements, with 28.6% female Saudi national employees and 62.5% women in management positions. The Women Who Empower initiative builds on this foundation, providing practical skills and networking opportunities that can lead to entrepreneurship and employment in the creative sector.
The program will conclude with an exhibition showcasing the participants’ work, followed by a graduation ceremony where outstanding achievers will be recognized with special awards from Canon.
The Women Who Empower campaign demonstrates Canon’s ‘Future of People’ theme and commitment to inclusion and diversity. Built on five strategic pillars – inclusive leadership, employees, workplace, business, and measures – the initiative reflects Canon’s core philosophy of ‘Kyosei’, which promotes living and working together for the common good. This comprehensive approach ensures sustainable impact in developing female talent and creating opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s imaging and printing sectors.
