Cartier and Alfaisal University recently conducted a first-of-a-kind lecture and introduction to their women’s initiative to support women entrepreneurs at the university campus in Riyadh. This year’s Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards applications number over 2,800 worldwide, with the MENA region ranking first in terms of submissions. It is the first time the program has received applications from Saudi Arabia, which accounts for nearly a quarter of the region’s 895 candidacies.
To further encourage the region’s female entrepreneurs, the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards hosted a breakfast presentation for 200 students at Alfaisal University in Riyadh on Oct. 31. The university’s students have singular opportunities for collaborative research and international study. Furthermore, student associations, clubs, and organizations provide opportunities for both personal and professional growth as the university seeks to graduate socially responsible global citizens that are committed to lifelong learning and personal development in service to others.
“We are very proud to be hosting this Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards presentation, which aims to raise awareness about the program among the country’s students and youth,” said Alban du Mesnil du Buisson, managing director, Cartier Saudi Arabia.
Launched in 2006 to support for-profit startup projects by female entrepreneurs, the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards encourage bold ideas and creative excellence.
“Cartier has over the years cemented strong ties with the MENA region, and more specifically Saudi Arabia. We are delighted to see such significant increase in Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards candidates in our region,” said du Buisson.
Seema A. Khan, member of the advisory board for Alfaisal College of Business, was the opening key note speaker for the Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards launch in Saudi Arabia and was selected for her contributions to opening the door for minorities on Wall Street and Riyadh’s “Main Street.”
“Cartier is known for valuing the contribution of their people and other cultures as a magical mix that results in beautiful works of arts. This initiative is bringing their appreciation of value to the market in general by profiling women globally who drive real impact in their communities and markets,” Khan said.
She is a partner of The Seed Advisory Group, a New York-based global strategy firm.
“Building projects that go beyond the fleeting fashions of the day is at the core of Cartier’s values, which is why promoting impact-driven businesses through such programs as Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards is indispensable. It is part of who we are and what we strive for,” added Sophie Doireau, managing director, Cartier UAE and India.
