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CANON MIDDLE EAST AND ALNAHDA FUEL VISION 2030 BY EMPOWERING SAUDI WOMEN IN CREATIVE SECTORS
Canon Middle East , a global leader in imaging solutions , has launched its Women Who Empower initiative in Saudi Arabia in collaboration with AlNahda , a pioneering non-profit organisation dedicated to women ’ s empowerment since 1963 . The programme will provide specialised training for up to 15 Saudi women , supporting the Kingdom ’ s vision of increasing women ’ s participation in the workforce to 30 % by 2030 .
The initiative comes as Saudi Arabia ’ s content creation industry experiences significant growth , with social media penetration reaching over 93 %. The programme aims to equip participants with vital skills in photography , videography , printing and lighting , positioning them to capitalise on the growing creative economy in the Kingdom .
The intensive two-week programme , running from November 24 to December 8 , was conducted in partnership with Abdulwahed ( AAW ), Canon ’ s preferred retailer in Saudi Arabia . Participants received both theoretical and practical training using professional imaging and printing equipment , culminating in a portfolio presentation that showcased their acquired skills and creative vision . and printing sectors . This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering local talent and aligns perfectly with the Kingdom ’ s goals of creating a diverse , knowledge-based economy . With women ’ s workforce participation in Saudi Arabia growing from 17 % in 2017 to 35 % today , we ’ re excited to help accelerate this positive trend through specialised training and mentorship .”
The programme leverages Canon ’ s extensive expertise in imaging solutions and will feature workshops led by industry experts , including renowned photographers and content creators . Participants will receive comprehensive training in modern printing technologies , professional photography techniques and digital content creation , preparing them for careers in these rapidly growing sectors .
AlNahda , established in 1963 and officially accredited by the UN ECOSOC ( United Nations Economic and Social Council ) in June 2019 , has been at the forefront of women ’ s social and economic empowerment in Saudi Arabia . The organisation ’ s vision of making women effective partners in Saudi society ’ s development makes it an ideal partner for Canon ’ s Women Who Empower initiative .
Dr . Miznah Omair Alomair , CEO of AlNahda Society , said : “ At AINahda , we believe in creating pathways for women to participate actively in Saudi Arabia ’ s transformation . This collaboration with Canon provides our members with industry-leading expertise and practical skills in the creative sector . For six decades , we have championed women ’ s advancement , and this initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to build capabilities and create opportunities for women to reach leadership positions across all sectors .”
Canon Middle East ’ s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its regional achievements , with 28.6 % female Saudi national employees and 62.5 % women in management positions . The Women Who Empower initiative builds on this foundation , providing practical skills and networking opportunities that can lead to entrepreneurship and employment in the creative sector . x
Mai Youssef , Corporate Communications and Marketing Services Director – Canon Middle East , Turkey , and Canon Central and North Africa , said : “ As Saudi Arabia continues its remarkable transformation under Vision 2030 , Canon is proud to empower Saudi women in the creative
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