The Qatari Businesswomen Association (QBWA) has taken forward its international business engagement through its participation in the 9th UNCTAD World Investment Forum 2026, held under the theme ‘Investing in the Future’.
As a partner of the international forum, QBWA contributed to conversations on women’s participation in investment, entrepreneurship and economic development. Its involvement also provided an opportunity to connect international delegates with Qatar’s business community and explore areas for future collaboration.
A central part of the association’s programme was a session titled ‘Women Who Invest: Mobilising Female Capital for the Future’, jointly organised with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The discussion brought together women investors, entrepreneurs and business leaders to examine how women can take a more active role in directing capital and influencing investment decisions.
The session was moderated by Manu G Parmar, founder and CEO of Business Leaders Magazine. Speakers included Fatma Ali al-Khater, founder of Torba Market and founder and board member of the Qatar Venture Capital Association; Yulia Stark, founder and president of EWA Group; Mariela Balbo, co-founder and CFO of Crofabiotech; Dalia al-Khalaf, founder and managing partner of Rawdat Capital; and Rama Chakaki, president of QSTP.
Drawing on their professional experience across entrepreneurship, venture capital, financial education, innovation and international investment, the speakers examined ways to increase women’s involvement in investment activity. The conversation addressed the importance of strengthening financial and investment knowledge, widening access to suitable opportunities, directing capital towards innovation and sustainable growth, and developing reliable international investment networks.
The discussions also highlighted the role of financial institutions, policymakers, private-sector organisations and investment networks in building an environment where women can participate more fully in investment and economic decision-making.
A partnership extending beyond the forum
QBWA’s engagement with UNCTAD is intended to continue beyond the three-day gathering, with scope for further work in women’s entrepreneurship, investment, capacity building and international business development.
An important development was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between QBWA and UNCTAD. The agreement establishes a framework for ongoing cooperation and joint initiatives aimed at supporting women’s economic participation.
The association also hosted a networking dinner for international delegates, QBWA members and representatives of Qatar’s business community. The gathering offered participants an opportunity to exchange perspectives, establish professional connections and explore potential partnerships across different markets.
QBWA further supported the UNCTAD Women in Business Awards as an in-kind sponsor, reinforcing its involvement in recognising women entrepreneurs and their contributions to business.
As part of this commitment, QBWA vice chairwoman Aisha Alfardan offered the award winners complimentary membership in the association’s business community. This will also provide curated introductions to relevant business leaders, potential partners and organisations that could support their future development.
QBWA board member Aysha Khalifa al-Romaihi also joined the awards panel, contributing to the assessment and recognition of women entrepreneurs. Her involvement reflected the association’s wider engagement in initiatives that bring greater attention to women’s achievements in business.
Building lasting international connections
Commenting on QBWA’s participation, vice chairwoman Aisha Alfardan said: “Hosting the World Investment Forum in Qatar has been a wonderful opportunity to bring people together, share ideas, and create meaningful connections.
“At QBWA, we have always believed that empowering women is not only about helping them start or grow businesses. It is also about giving them the confidence, knowledge, and opportunities to become investors, leaders, and decision-makers.”
She added: “We are proud of our partnership with UNCTAD and the opportunities it creates to connect women from Qatar with the wider world. For us, the true value of collaboration is not measured by the events we organise, but by the relationships we build, the doors we open, and the opportunities that continue long after the event ends.”
Following its participation in the World Investment Forum 2026, QBWA plans to continue developing its international relationships and exploring initiatives that can improve women’s access to investment knowledge, funding and business opportunities.
Through continued engagement with regional and international partners, the association aims to support women’s involvement in entrepreneurship, investment and economic decision-making, while contributing to Qatar’s role in international business cooperation.
Its approach places emphasis on sustained partnerships and practical support, connecting women entrepreneurs with relevant networks, expertise and opportunities that can contribute to long-term business growth.
