100 exhibitors showcase products, services at 3rd Women's Work Exhibition Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — The 3rd Women's Work Exhibition was launched on March 26 under the theme “Capacity building … Aspirations of the Future” and lasted five days. It was launched by Mazen Bin Mohammed Batarji, deputy chairman of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), at the Jeddah Center for Forum and Events (JCFE). The event was the largest of its kind in the Kingdom, covering some 100 private companies that provide women's needs and requirements as well as family-oriented activities, products and services under the umbrella of the JCCI. The exhibition was organized by Al-Eiman Charitable Society for Cancer Patients' Care with the cooperation of the Jeddah Municipality and the support of corporate sponsors. Following his tour around the exhibition's pavilions, Batarji said that sale proceeds of all products showcased by the exhibitors will be for the benefit of the cancer patients in Jeddah. He said this was a worthwhile humanitarian gesture, underscoring the depth of cooperation and solidarity among members of Saudi society. He added that the exhibition's focus on the Saudi woman as a productive member of the society is a clear indication of the private sector's strong support and belief in women's participation and role in sustainable development. “The exhibition in its third edition gathers businesswomen under one roof to establish and form links to support women at work, as well as educate them about different areas and schemes of economical, cultural and social development,” Batarji said. Batarji also said Jeddah's many ongoing forums and events give the city a unique charm that appeals to many visitors in the Kingdom. Jeddah exhibitions' big draw of visitors throughout the year demonstrates the city's capacity to host both local and global events, he said. Fahd Bin Hussein Al-Suleimani, general manager of Al Eiman Charitable Society, praised JCCI's unwavering efforts in supporting such events that cater to women and pave the way for young female entrepreneurs, business owners and small-project beginners to emerge as productive and effective society members and, in turn, supporters of the national economy. For her part, the chairperson of women's section at the society, Al Johara Bint Mohammad Al-Angari, expected that the five days of the event would see thousands of visitors interested in various business activities related to women and provided by small, medium and big enterprise owners and exhibitors. Al-Angari noted that the exhibition included companies and institutions targeting women entrepreneurs and business owners interested in future ventures and investments. She added there were some exhibitors specialized in training, showcasing family items and offering special services for ladies in the field of employment and women who work from home. “We also have a Health and Fitness pavilion and a corner for children and family needs. The exhibition also strengthens links and communication channels within the community through training, rehabilitation and employment of female national staff. These consequently contribute to reducing the unemployment rate by directing the promising young Saudis of both sexes to get involved in productive jobs. The exhibition also allocated a special section for women with special needs whereby they can get the required help and guidance for them to become productive members of society,” Al-Angari said. One of the most notable sections of the exhibition was “Embarrassment Ends,” a new creative campaign targeting women to go into new job markets and fields of work, including careers as salespersons, cashiers and showroom managers. It was an extension of a previous campaign aimed at feminization of women's shops under the name “No More Embarrassment.” Fatimah Garoub, head of the campaign, said her team has begun coordinating with the well-known Saudi fashion designer Yahya Al- Beshri to introduce a design for showroom employees' uniforms maintaining decency in accordance with Islamic laws. She also said they have a number of openings for women willing to work as vendors, cashiers and showroom managers, and can help jobseekers to find the best opportunities that match their qualifications and caliber. At the end of the opening ceremony, Batarji awarded the organizers, sponsors and exhibitors involved in to ensure the event's success. __
