Rabat – As part of International Women’s Day, Bouabate Fes Association is preparing to celebrate Moroccan female leaders as part of its commitment to women’s empowerment.

The association will host the 12th annual Fes Gate event on March 11, a ceremony that seeks to pay tribute to women in leadership in different fields and sectors.

The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow,” according to the UN.

The theme aims to recognize women’s vital contribution in leading in different sectors, including climate change.

“Our country is no exception on this issue,” the association said, emphasizing the actions carried out to tackle climate change challenges.

For the association, the women celebrated during this event will include not only renowned people.

“Famous, recognized, or simple citizens in the shadows, all have a career worth highlighting.”

Last year’s 11th annual Fes Gate ceremony celebrated the theme “Fez, 12 centuries of history, Guelmim gate of the Sahara,” alongside its longstanding mission to promote gender equality. 

The ceremony took place in Guelmim and was hosted by President of the Guelmim-Oued Nun region Mbarka Bouaida.

A delegation of 60 participants from different cities, including Rabat, and Casablanca, participated in the event. 

The Bouabate Fes Association aims to contribute to the regional development of the city of Fez through women empowerment against poverty, gender discrimination.

The association named the ceremony’s trophy after the Fez Gate, symbolizing beauty, “heritage, history, and openness to world cultures.”

“The personalities who received this tribute since the [association] creation are our ambassadors who carry our voice for this action.”

The event does not only celebrate women leaders. Last year’s annual Fes Gate ceremony also dedicated prizes to male participants who accomplished significant advancement in favor of women.

The association dedicates the trophies to women and men working in different fields including the economy, media, renewable energy, among others.

Last year, the economy section trophy was awarded to Abdellatif Zaghnoun, the General Director of Caisse de Depot et de Gestion (CDG).

Bader Iken, the general director of the Solar Energy and Renewable Energy Research Insitute won the Research and Development trophy.