17 Inspirational Emirati Women Take Center Stage at COP28

In Abu Dhabi's COP28 summit, the 17 Faces of Action international photo exhibition highlights the remarkable contributions of 17 Emirati women leaders to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This empowering showcase is part of a global initiative organized in collaboration with the UN and other partners, to celebrate women's pivotal role in community development and environmental preservation.

In the heart of Abu Dhabi, a remarkable event coincides with the COP28 climate summit—a global gathering focused on sustainability and environmental preservation. The international photo exhibition titled "17 Faces of Action" has taken center stage, presenting a powerful narrative of leadership and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This exhibition is not just a display of photographs but a celebration of the impactful contributions of 17 Emirati women leaders who are at the forefront of community development and the pursuit of the SDGs.

Emirati Women in the Limelight

The exhibition is a collaborative initiative involving the United Nations Office in Geneva, the Association of Swiss Women Empowerment (ASWE), the General Women's Union (GWU), and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the UAE. Open until the 10th of December, 2023, it features captivating portraits of prominent Emirati female leaders, each representing a unique story of dedication and success in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the GWU, expressed her pride in the exhibition's presence at COP28, noting that it is a fitting homage to the 17 extraordinary women whose stories are celebrated on this global platform. She extended her gratitude to the United Nations Office in Geneva and the ASWE for their efforts to recognize the pivotal role women play in achieving the SDGs.

A Global Journey of Empowerment

The ambition of the "17 Faces of Action" exhibition extends beyond the UAE's borders. It is part of a larger project that will see 17 exhibitions in 17 different countries, each highlighting 17 local women who have achieved notable successes in community development and the implementation of the SDGs. The culmination of this international journey will be a grand exhibition at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, where the portraits from all participating countries will be united, showcasing the collective impact of women around the world. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of UN Geneva, remarked on the significance of the collective efforts of these women who have made a positive difference for humanity. With the UAE being the first Arab country and the sixth international destination to host the exhibition, following Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Portugal, Georgia, and Vietnam, she expressed her delight at the opportunity to share this inspiring project in the green zone of COP28.

A Portrait of Global Unity and Progress

The "17 Faces of Action" project is an ambitious undertaking by the United Nations to photograph 17 women in 17 member countries, each contributing to the development of society and the accomplishment of the SDGs. These chosen women express their perspectives on one of the SDGs, symbolizing the intersection of personal advocacy and global objectives. Initiated in 2022, the project is set to conclude in 2024 when the diverse array of portraits will be displayed at the United Nations Office at Geneva, offering visitors a glimpse into the global tapestry of women's empowerment. In conclusion, the UAE's hosting of the "17 Faces of Action" exhibition at COP28 serves as a testament to the nation's commitment to gender equality, sustainability, and international cooperation. It shines a spotlight on the influential roles that women hold in driving progress across various sectors and demonstrates the UAE's dedication to supporting and celebrating female leadership on the global stage. Through this exhibition, the stories of these 17 Emirati women will inspire not only the residents of the UAE but also the international community, reinforcing the message that sustainable development is an inclusive goal, attainable only through the collective efforts of all members of society.