The Honorable Melanne Verveer visits Zayed University Abu Dhabi

November 25, 2013

The Honorable Melanne Verveer, Executive Director at the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security visited Zayed University Abu Dhabi where she gave a talk in the presence of Zayed University students, faculty and staff.

Christopher Brown, Director of International Programs at Zayed University, moderated the talk where Verveer expressed her excitement to be returning to Zayed University’s iconic Abu Dhabi campus, following her visit with the former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton three years back.

She also expressed her genuine admiration for what Emirati women have accomplished in terms of assuming national leadership roles and bettering the Emirati community. Furthermore, she shared some of her inspiring encounters with Emirati female role models during her recent visit to the UAE.

Some of these included Afrai Al Basti, Executive Director of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children and Noura Al Kaabi, CEO of TwoFour 54, amongst many others.

Verveer was impressed with the increase of number of women engaged in police work, saying it might be amongst the highest numbers globally.

Addressing Zayed University students, she said: “ Emirati women are growing the economy and providing job opportunities for young generations. These great role models are seizing to bring the nation’s best talents to the service of the UAE. Look up to them and learn from them. Carry on being smart, educated and caring. Commit to making steady progress!”