Muscat: The second edition of The Origin - Women Forum & Awards 2025, organized by Gulf Leaders Circle and Muscat Media Group, honored the leadership, innovation, and influence of women from Oman and around the globe.
The event gathered over 180 prominent women leaders, achievers, and professionals from more than 15 nationalities, including Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Japan, India, the United States, Canada, Brunei, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Netherlands, and Greece.
Her Highness Sayyida Basma Al Said, the Founder of Whispers of Serenity Clinic and Head of the Not Alone Mental Health Awareness Campaign, was the chief guest at the event and delivered the inaugural keynote address. Her poignant speech underscored the various roles women fulfill and the elements that foster resilience. "We are planners, we are innovators, we are educators," she stated. She warned that women can easily face burnout in their quest for perfection and stressed the necessity of establishing robust networks of supportive women. "Having forums like this, where we uplift and cheer for one another, is what truly aids us in building resilience."
Her Excellency Lujaina Mohsin Darwish, Chairperson of Mohsin Haider Darwish (ITICS) and Honorary Consul of South Africa to Oman, addressed the significance of inclusive leadership in both business and governance. "Women must dare to dream and push boundaries," she asserted.
"Throughout my journey, from academia to the corporate sector and eventually into politics, I have discovered that while norms may be present, it is our duty to challenge them and create our own space."
Shatha Salim Al Maskiry, the Founder of Lahunna, discussed mentorship, purpose-driven leadership, and initiatives like SIDRAH, Rialy, and Wijdan. "Women do not require empowerment from external sources. We have been empowered for a long time," she declared.
"What we require is to utilize our connections, enhance our networks, and embrace our achievements without apology."
Her message resonated with the forum’s central theme of resilience and leadership, emphasizing how women can influence communities and institutions by asserting their power.
A compelling panel discussion, titled "Women Leading Transformation and Innovation," convened prominent women leaders from various fields to explore subjects such as organizational culture, establishing a presence in male-dominated sectors, nurturing innovation-friendly environments, and advancing into leadership positions as women. This was succeeded by a series of presentations from women achievers on the theme: "Breaking the Glass Ceiling – Inspiring Journeys Creating Lasting Impact."
The event's highlight was The Origin Awards 2025, where 25 honorees were celebrated across different categories for their contributions to leadership, innovation, sustainability, and empowerment.
The event received support from Lincoln, Oman American Business Council, Al Madina Group, Europcar, Al Tasnim, Honor, Bake’in, Squad Up, Lahunna, and Hun’na. Media partners included Times of Oman, Shabiba, and Hounna magazine. The event partner was Manzana, and it took place at the St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort.
