The Qatar British Business Forum (QBBF) has launched a new initiative to champion workplace wellness, hosting its inaugural ‘Women’s Executive Leadership Roundtable 2025’ in Doha. The event gathered female corporate leaders, senior executives, and business professionals from across Qatar to discuss how leadership engagement can foster a more balanced, resilient, and productive workforce.
Promoting a Culture of Well-being
A central theme of the roundtable was the integration of wellness as a core component of corporate culture. The event was organised and hosted by Amanda Shaw, head of Office, and Charlotte Chambers, head of Marketing and Events, in partnership with practitioner Sharon Desouza. As a certified expert in emotional freedom and stress management, Desouza guided attendees through her ‘Be Empowered’ programme, a corporate well-being initiative designed to help professionals manage stress and cultivate healthier daily habits. Such initiatives align with broader national aims, as Qatar reiterates its commitment to enhance multilateral cooperation for sustainable development.
“The primary aim of this roundtable is to empower working professionals to achieve a better work–life balance and to enhance their overall well-being,” said Desouza. “Creating a happier and healthier workforce ultimately benefits both individuals and the organisations they represent.”
Insights from Senior Executives
The event also featured a panel discussion that provided diverse perspectives on leadership and self-care. The session was moderated by Emma Higham, a QBBF Committee board member and partner at Clyde & Co. Panellists included Kate Jackson, principal of King’s College Doha, and Emma Igelstrom, general manager at Artemex and a former World Olympic swimmer. Their discussion provided a platform for sharing experiences, similar to events that serve as a global celebration of innovation and leadership.
Reflecting on the session, Jackson praised its impact. “It was an inspiring and empowering session emphasising balance, purpose, and self-care in leadership,” she stated. “Sharon’s authentic approach resonated deeply with us, strengthening both our professional network and collective well-being.”
Future Plans for the Forum
Participants concluded the roundtable by outlining actionable goals and strategies to introduce wellness practices within their own organisations. A key takeaway was that leadership commitment is the single most important factor in creating a successful wellness culture. Following the success of this first event, the QBBF plans to establish the roundtable as an annual forum. This will create a dedicated platform for corporate leaders to convene, share best practices, and continue advancing the cause of workplace wellness in Qatar.
