On February 24, 2025, Dr. Shaden Maawiya, President of Sadat City University, joined a special event hosted by the Fulbright Commission in Egypt to celebrate International Women’s Day. The event, held at Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile, focused on “75 Years of Influential Women Leaders Around the World.” Key figures in attendance included Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development, Ambassador Hero Mustafa Garg, U.S. Ambassador to Egypt, and Magi Nasif, Executive Director of the Fulbright Commission in Egypt.
A panel discussion titled “Shaping Minds” featured Dr. Maawiya alongside Magi Nasif. The conversation centered on advice for young women in academia and leadership. Dr. Maawiya encouraged balancing both societal and academic roles for success. “A female leader’s success lies in balancing these responsibilities,” she said, emphasizing women’s unique ability to handle multiple roles effectively.
Highlighting Women’s Progress in Egypt
Dr. Maawiya also expressed gratitude to the Fulbright Commission for its continued collaboration with Sadat City University. She praised Egypt’s efforts under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s leadership to empower women. “Women are now ministers, governors, and leaders across various sectors,” she said, highlighting the progress of the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030, which aligns with global development goals.
Dr. Maawiya’s remarks underscored the significance of women’s leadership in shaping society, both in Egypt and around the world. She celebrated the nation’s achievements while encouraging further support for female leaders.
A Global Movement for Gender Equality
The event celebrated 75 years of Fulbright’s impact on women’s leadership and highlighted the ongoing global movement for gender equality. As the discussion concluded, Dr. Maawiya and other leaders reaffirmed their commitment to empowering future generations of women leaders.
