More Emiratis to join ‘Antarctica Expedition’

Abu Dhabi, Feb 20, 2012 (WAM) - The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) is sponsoring five Emirati women to join the final “2041 International Antarctica Expedition” which starts on Feb. 27 and ends on March 12. The five employees are Alia Al Khafajy, Anna Ayoub, Khadijah Al Mutawwa, Oshba Mubarak and Yasmin Al Juwadri. They will be led by world-famous polar explorer and environmental leader Robert Swan. The “2041 International Antarctica Expedition” aims to highlight the effects of global warming and to ensure the continued protection of Antarctica from mining and exploitation beyond the year 2041, when the current international agreement ends. “NBAD is pleased to participate with a team of five UAE women in this expedition to empower and encourage Emirati women who are eager to participate in global civic activities as the nation’s ambassadors,” says Ehab Anis Hassan, the group chief human resources officer of NBAD. “Engaging UAE women in challenging experiences; giving them the opportunity to learn and develop their personal and leadership skills, and offering them a platform to have a positive impact on society is a key step to developing female leaders and is part of our commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to the sustainable growth of the UAE,” Hassan said. “I believe the Emirati women joining the 2041 International Antarctica Expedition will advance international co-operation and understanding, promote the UAE’s culture, and highlight and serve as role models for environmental protection,” he added. NBAD explorers were selected through a competitive application process. The 2041 International Antarctic Expedition brings together scores of adventure-seekers from around the world in a sea voyage to the “Frozen Continent.” Throughout the expedition, participants will experience the wildlife of the frozen continent, live and breathe a sustainable lifestyle, and learn about the importance of preserving natural resources and the role of renewable energy in balancing the ecosystem. In addition to environmental knowledge and sustainable practices, the expedition is designed to develop personal and leadership skills. To inspire and inform NBAD staff about the voyage to Antarctica and also to educate and promote sustainable behaviour, NBAD invited Dr Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi, Environmental Adviser to the Ajman Government, CEO of Al Ihsan Charity Centre and Chairman of Green Base Environmental Services, to educate NBAD explorers. Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi was one of the first UAE nationals to participate in the “2041 International Antarctica Expedition.” “Supporting and investing in women to become leaders and role models will help the Bank achieve its aspirations for growth and profitability in the long term,” says Belinda Scott, senior manager, Corporate Sustainability at NBAD. – The Gulf Today