2008 Woodie Awards
Women leaders share stories from Dubai, present papers
Amy Schumacher
Issue date: 4/25/08 Section: Campus
|
The students attended the Global Women's Leadership Conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, held March 10-12. Approximately 1,200 women representing more than 80 countries attended the conference. Each of the 11 Miami attendees presented, via panel, a 10-15 page paper relating to women in leadership, said senior Rachel Rudwall.
In addition to presenting their papers, the women had a chance to see and hear other speakers, such as Jane Fonda, Rudwall said.
At Tuesday's forum, the women summarized their papers before each spoke briefly on a main theme they had learned from the conference, followed by a brief question and answer session.
Rudwall began by noting that obstacles can be used as empowerment. She told the audience of the various challenges the women faced, such as canceled flights, lost luggage and illness.
However, Rudwall said the conference was worth the struggles.
"Going through all of these things actually made the conference that more exceptional," Rudwall said.
Senior Jessica Plechaty then spoke on the clear evidence of globalization in Dubai. She said that while there were obvious indications of being in a Middle Eastern nation, Western influences, such as McDonald's, were still prevalent.
"It was a perfect blend of East and West," Plechaty said. "The perception I had of the Middle East was shattered."
Sophomore Carrie Almasi, senior Elise Seiwert and sophomore Tho Nguyen then talked about cultural education, cultural co-existence and diversity in Dubai. All three women touched on contrasting cultures present both at the conference and in Dubai in general.
"The sheer amount of cultures that were there was amazing," Seiwert said.
In addition to cultural diversity, Nguyen highlighted the paradoxical landscapes. She said they were able to go to a mall with indoor skiing, go to the beach and see the desert, all within six hours.
Senior Kirby Broadnax discussed aspects of cooperative leadership she learned on her trip.
Senior Ashley Adkins noted the importance of an honest exchange, citing political correctness as often hindering open dialogue. She mentioned how she was at first afraid to approach women she perceived as being different so as not to accidentally offend them. But, she eventually worked up the nerve and said that she became friends with two Emirate women.
Be the first to comment on this story