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Five years ago, a partnership between DMCC and Evolvin’ Women began with a simple yet ambitious idea: to empower women from underserved communities and, in doing so, transform lives, industries, and entire communities. Today, as I reflect on the incredible journey we’ve been on, I am reminded of how powerful purposeful action can be when driven by vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment.
I still remember when we first partnered with Evolvin’ Women in 2019. At the time, it was a small but promising initiative, with just nine women enrolled and operations in two countries. But even then, Feryal Ahmadi, our inspiring COO at DMCC, saw the potential for something much greater. Her belief in the vision of Assia Riccio, the founder of Evolvin’ Women, became the foundation for what has grown into a movement that touches lives across nine countries today. Feryal’s foresight and support have been instrumental in scaling this programme, while Assia’s passion and leadership have turned dreams into tangible change.
This partnership is not just about growth in numbers – it’s about the milestones that represent real, lasting impact. In the last five years, Evolvin’ Women has forged partnerships with organisations like the United Nations Development Programme and played a role in global events such as FIFA initiatives in Qatar, empowering over 800 women with critical skills. These milestones are more than headlines; they’re stories of women gaining confidence, independence, and a future filled with possibility.
Just this past week, we hosted the third edition of the Evolvin’ Women Annual Forum under the theme Developing Talents, Creating Impact. With over 30 partners in attendance, including DMCC member companies such as Alliad, Kerry, and Aleph Hospitality, the forum showcased the continuous innovation that drives this programme. One standout achievement is the launch of the second level of the barista and mixologist course driven by Kerry, which not only equips women with advanced skills but also demonstrates a commitment to meaningful, hands-on change.
Looking forward, we’re equally excited about Evolvin’ Voices, a new podcast initiative that will amplify the stories of participants, partners, and experts. This storytelling platform will connect women across Africa and beyond, inspiring many more to dream big and take bold steps toward their futures.
The numbers speak for themselves: 1,300 women empowered, over 150,000 hours of training, coaching and mentorship, and $9 million in generated salaries.
These figures represent lives changed – not just for the women themselves but for their families and communities. Each success story creates a ripple effect, proving that when you invest in women, you invest in the future.
But this is about more than celebrating success. It’s about scaling this impact. DMCC and Evolvin’ Women are committed to breaking barriers, reshaping narratives, and creating environments where women can lead, innovate, and thrive. We’re grateful to partners like Accenture, PwC Academy, DHL, The Alto Agency, GSB Capital, Costa Coffee, Accor Group, Mariott, Radisson, Jumeirah Group, Ramada, InterContinental Hotels Group, Be Relax Spa and others who have joined us on this journey.
These partnerships reinforce a simple truth: the more hands we join, the greater the impact we create.
This post is not only a celebration, but a call to action as we look to the future.
With that in mind, we extend this invitation: join us.
If you are a business in the UAE or beyond, there is space for you in this movement. Whether through mentoring, hiring, upskilling, or sponsoring, there are countless ways to contribute. It starts with a conversation and a willingness to explore how you can help empower women to lead, innovate, and thrive.
Let’s build a future where empowered women empower communities. Reach out to DMCC or Assia Riccio to learn how you can play a part. Together, we can transform lives and make sustainable change a reality.
The opportunity is here. The time is now.
Will you take the step?
sustainability@dmcc.ae
EVGENY GARANIN
SENIOR MANAGER OF SUSTAINABILITY AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS,
DMCC