On October 12, 2010, the Board of Directors of the EastWest Institute honored Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak with the Values Based Leadership Award, which was presented by Margot Perot and received by Her Highness’s son and the minister of foreign affairs, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed.

In honoring Her Highness with the award, EWI sought to draw attention to her leadership record, particularly her promotion of the cause of women in the United Arab Emirates.

In 1973, Sheikha Fatima established the first women’s organization in the UAE: the Abu Dhabi Society for the Awakening of Women. To counter a more than 75 per cent illiteracy rate in the UAE, she launched a nationwide campaign for the education of young girls.

In 1975, Sheikha Fatima helped found the UAE Women’s Federation to empower women, promote education and eliminate illiteracy among adult women. Sheikha Fatima campaigned for the women of the UAE to work in media and become members of the country’s parliamentary assembly, the Federal National Council (FNC). The current FNC includes nine women among its 40 members.

In his keynote speech presenting the award, EastWest Institute Co-Chairman Francis Finlay declared: “Her Highness’ continuous inspiration, guidance, commitment, and leadership form a tribute to all women and men of the region and indeed serve as a beacon to all humanity.  The EastWest Institute family is deeply honored to present Her Highness with the EastWest Institute Values-based Leadership Award.”

Fatima Awarded EWI’s Leadership Award, Khaleej Times, October 12, 2010

Fatima awarded EWI's Values Based Leadership Award, UAE Interact, October 13, 2010