DUBAI: Aurora50, the UAE-based training and development company dedicated to creating thriving, inclusive workplaces, in partnership with Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA), Accenture, Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), Emirates Group, and ENOC, have announced the launch of a new membership community, NOORA to support ambitious corporate women, from first-time managers, through to leaders of leaders.

Supporting the UAE’s continued efforts to achieve 30 percent women’s representation in leadership roles, the new network is dedicated to women in the country and provides members with unlimited access to a real-world community of like-minded and ambitious women from diverse professional backgrounds, industries and nationalities.

The need to create such networks was highlighted in research from the US Kellogg School of Management, which revealed that women with a strong inner circle are more than three times more likely to be promoted than those without. Yet, women account for only 31 percent of senior roles globally.

Diana Wilde, co-founder of Aurora50, said: “We are delighted to launch NOORA with such influential and committed founding partners. Together we are forming a real-world community for like-minded and ambitious women.

“Research shows women climb the career ladder faster when they have a strong network. But no networks have existed in the UAE for the ambitious corporate career woman until now. Members will also be given opportunities to lead collaborations and solve industry challenges. Women will lead with impact”, Diana Wilde added.

Members of Noora will have the opportunity to participate in face-to-face workshops addressing industry challenges and will also have regular opportunities to network in person. Additionally, they can connect via the online membership platform at any time.

Nabil Almessabi, Chief Human Resources Officer at TAQA, commented: “TAQA is pleased to be a founding partner with Aurora50 on the launch of the NOORA programme which will act as an important platform for networking as well as provide a community for professional women across several sectors. At TAQA, we are committed to identifying opportunities that will empower and enhance the experience of our female employees and create an ecosystem where they thrive professionally and have fulfilling careers at TAQA.”

TJ Lightwala, Accenture’s Marketing Senior Practice Lead & Inclusion and Diversity lead in the Middle East, said: "At the heart of every successful business lies the undeniable power of accessible, creative, and untapped talent. At Accenture, we wholeheartedly champion open, honest, and meaningful conversations that drive us toward achieving equality for all. Being part of the Noora initiative reflects our commitment to building a workplace culture that celebrates diversity and equality, fueled by visionary leadership. Through tangible actions and unwavering support, we strive to create an inclusive organisation where women thrive and break through barriers, ensuring they reach their full potential.”

Katherine Hahm, General Counsel and Head of Ethics & Business Integrity at Emirates Global Aluminum, said: “EGA is proud to be a founding partner of NOORA, a dedicated community designed to support ambitious women at all levels of leadership. At EGA, we've always championed the advancement of women in our industry, understanding that their unique perspectives and skills are integral to our success. NOORA provides a much-needed platform for women to forge connections, exchange ideas and amplify their professional growth. This partnership demonstrates our belief in the potential and capabilities of women in our industry and beyond. We're excited to be a part of this journey, and we're looking forward to seeing the transformative impact of NOORA on the UAE’s corporate landscape."

Oliver Grohmann, Senior Vice President Human Resources at the Emirates Group, said: “We’re pleased to partner with Aurora50 and be a launch partner of the NOORA initiative. This dovetails with our continued efforts to empower all women at the Emirates Group, and we hope to inspire other businesses to follow suit. We believe that by combining resources, expertise and networks, we can accelerate the creation of a pipeline of women leaders who can make long-lasting impact on our industries and community.”

Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO, ENOC, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Aurora50 to launch the “NOORA” initiative. This partnership represents a strategic step for ENOC Group towards empowering our female employees and fostering an environment that champions their success. The UAE is one of the leading nations in the MENA at achieving and promoting gender equality, with women playing a vital role in building the community, economy and future of our country. Supporting the UAE’s continued efforts towards empowering women we at ENOC Group continuously look for such partnerships to benefit and offer valuable insights and skills, supporting their personal and professional growth, ultimately to benefit the entire Group as we strive for excellence together”.