As we look around, we see women who have been able to transform society’s identity to a new level. Thus, women are “ambassadors” of change who nurture future leaders, change society and elevate the country. It is even more beneficial when women from diverse backgrounds come together to make changes, think together and creatively look beyond the frames to serve the global community.
Amongst many, Mrs. Muna Al Rifai, newly elected president of the Wives of Heads of Mission (WHOM), is an exceptional leader who has inspired fellow WHOM to share her aspirations and vision for a better world. Under her leadership (2022/2023), WHOM will strive to interact with Saudi history, culture, and women, as well as initiate new projects and undertakings.
In 2023, the structure of WHOM will change. Since there are already three female ambassadors in the Kingdom, some new initiatives will be undertaken with the participation of female ambassadors and their husbands. This will be a new fresh wave to WHOM.
Inspired by my first discussion about the vision of WHOM, I once again sat down with Mrs. Muna Al Rifai and WHOM outstanding women to reflect on 2022, their journey of 12 months, achievements, and new beginnings. A genuine and remarkable discussion showed that our hopes and desires are shared regardless of ethnicity, nationality, religion, or cultural background.
Paulina Cardoso | Angola
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
A return to normal life, and the opportunity to dine at a fine restaurant and listen to a band after the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
With faith, focus and resilience, we can overcome any challenges.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
Learning Arabic is my priority. This will enhance my understanding of Saudi culture and routine. If I succeed, it will be a big achievement for me.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
Choosing my priorities carefully at the moment and focusing on them to avoid losing time and trying to achieve my goals effectively.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Friendship. Reciprocity. Tolerance.
Reiko Iwai | Japan
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
We celebrated International Women’s Day on March 9 with great success. We enjoyed the panel discussion, costume show, dance, music, food stands and international bazaar.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
Appreciation of the support and cooperation among the colleagues.
What trait or skill would like to develop more?
I would like to introduce many people to Japanese culture.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
My goal in 2023 is to implement more cultural exchange projects. The first step in achieving this goal should be to learn Arabic and improve my English skills.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Generosity. Compromise. Sympathy.
Muna Rifai | Jordan
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
Return to normal activities and daily routine after two years of restrictions. I am also excited to become the new President of WHOM.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
It is unexpected blessings that bring new opportunities that should be used to the fullest.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
I would like to build further on my experience of leadership, based on this new position and welcome new members. I also would like to rethink the concept of being a woman leader.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
To learn and explore the art and culture of Saudi Arabia as much as possible, to share my knowledge, invite talented artists, designers from Jordan, and expand cultural diplomacy.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Peace. Compassion. Diligence in the new beginnings.
Rose Oginga | Kenya
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
Life returned to its usual course – the joy of sharing delicious food and celebrations in a pleasant company! I consider the whole year as a memory after two years of restrictions.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
A mixture of socio-economic ups and downs as we all try to do our best to support those most affected by the global crisis.
What trait or skill would like to develop more?
Create more networks, projects, and partnerships that encourage climate change mitigation, starting at the personal level with family members and communities. Everyone can make a difference in their own way, and the more we participate, the more we change.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
I will start with an honest and personal reflection on 2022 and whether I have achieved my goals; if not, why. Then, I will develop a strategy for the new achievements in 2023.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Planned sustainability, love, and harmony.
Mirna Kabbara | Lebanon
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
Lebanese Independence Day celebration with hope for a better future. I will also cherish the memories of meeting new people and building wider networks.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
Gratitude for the return to normal life after COVID-19 restrictions.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
Learn foreign languages in order to better communicate with representatives of other countries.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be forwards your goals?
Being involved in more social work and exploring Saudi Arabia more.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Prosperity. Stability. Peace to the DQ community, to Lebanon, and to the world.
Datin Zuhaila | Malaysia
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
As a newcomer, having spent only three months in Riyadh, I have just begun to settle down and collect memories. I am impressed with the lifestyle in Riyadh and the life in the DQ.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
At a new place, meeting new friends and locals helps to settle in and feel at home quickly. In other words, home is the people and feelings.
What trait or skill would like to develop more?
In addition to participating in the many activities of the Malaysian community in Riyadh, I would also like to find new friends. It will help to practice Arabic and discovering Saudi culture.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
I need to improve my healthy lifestyle and be more physically active before I can actively participate in serious hiking since there are many places for hiking in Riyadh. At the same time, I would certainly want to share with the locals the Malaysian diverse culture, food, and touristic destinations.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Enthusiasm. Care. Peace.
Khamlichi Boutaina | Morocco
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
My best memory will be the year itself, for the simple and good reason of living without restrictions and being free.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
I will quote Khalil Gibran, “Joy and sadness. They come together, and one when is sitting alone with you at your table, do not forget that the other is asleep on your bed.”
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
To learn one new language, develop my critical thinking to solve problems efficiently and through innovation. Be autonomous and independent.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be forwards your goals?
I will name three steps. The willpower itself to move forward; the publication of my dissertation on criminal law; to write a book on personal development.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Respect to biodiversity. Support to each other. Peace.
Celma Cassam | Mozambique
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
This year impressed me with the growth of amazing shopping centers daily and the development of an impressive and pleasant infrastructure.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
Gratitude and hope for a better year ahead.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
I want to keep nurturing the habit of being happy and positive no matter what.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
Improving my ability to communicate better in English and Arabic is the first step in my journey.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Health. Employment. Peace.
Salma Wagiealla | Sudan
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
The DQ market, colorful and spiced with delicious flavors, where one could find something special for oneself.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
Gratitude for a loving family and for friends who are always there for me.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
Communication – an important way to share my culture and traditions with the world.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be towards your goals?
Transfer my goals from my imagination to a piece of paper. This will be followed by the next steps to achieve these goals.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Happiness. Success. Peace.
Hsiuyi Shen (Candice) | Taiwan
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
Celebrating New Year’s Eve and counting down with everyone with friends in Switzerland Residence was definitely the best highlight to kick 2022 off.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued, it only happens as the unintended side effect of devotion to a cause greater than oneself.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
I would like to improve my languages, especially my Arabic.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be forwards your goals?
I would like to make more Saudi and international friends in 2023. Then, I might have the chance to learn more about different cultures.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Calm. Mindful. Sustainable.
Nguyen Thi Bich Van | Vietnam
What was the best memory of 2022 in DQ?
Iftar in April, first event I attended. I met with other members of WHOM, who became some of my best friends now.
What sentence or phrase sums up your 2022?
Embracing changes. For me those changes were moving to Riyadh, new place, weather, people and witnessing the changes that are happening in the Kingdom.
What trait or skill would you like to develop more?
I just wish to wake up one day and suddenly speak Arabic.
A long journey starts with a single step. When you think of your goals in 2023, what would the first step be forwards your goals?
My goal is to explore the Kingdom as much as I can, which is why my first step would be making a list of places I want to go to in 2023.
Three words that you would like to wish in 2023 for the DQ community and the world in general.
Good Health. Happiness. Peace.
