L’Oréal foundation and UNESCO have celebrated, and honored the awarded exceptional reaserchers of L’Oréal UNESCO for women in science young talents programs of the three countries; Egypt, Levant and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) at Dubai Expo 2020 for their outstanding researches. The celebration came during the International Day of Women and Girls in Science at Dubai Expo, on the 11th of February.
During the ceremony, 14 young talents – PhD students and post-doctorate researchers’ categories – were awarded for their role in solving today’s challenges, as well as inspiring the future generation of females. Five of the recipients were from various countries in the GCC, three from Egypt, and six from Levant. Furthermore, 2020 fellows were also acknowledged during the celebrations.
It is worth noting that this program commenced as part of the L’Oréal-UNESCO’s Global For Women In Science program launched in 1998, and has since recognized over 3,900 phenomenal researchers and 122 Laureates, from more than 110 countries and regions.
Furthermore, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women In Science Young Talents program was introduced in the Arab region in 2010, and until today has awarded more than 160 female scientists; among them 28 Egyptians have been awarded whether on global, regional or national levels, and two exceptional scientists of them have also won an additional international recognition from the International Rising Talent program.
“At the Fondation L’Oréal, we are committed to doing our part in creating an equal opportunity environment that enables everyone to reach their full potential”, adds Alexandra Palt, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer and CEO of the Fondation L’Oréal “Women have shown more than ever that they are necessary in every possible field of research. Their contribution to science is vital as we thrive to build a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive world. But too often, their roles are being limited by gender biases and other obstacles. Through the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Program, we aim to improve the representation of women in STEM, to drive global impact by empowering more female scientists to achieve excellence at different stages of their careers and to encourage their participation in solving the great challenges of our time for the benefit of all.”
In light of the celebrations, Benoit Julia, Managing Director of L’Oréal Egypt said: “We are proud of our constant empowerment to women specifically in the field of science. We have launched L’Oreal UNESCO For Women In Science Egypt program in 2018 – in partnership with the Academy of Science in Egypt, and the UNESCO Regional Office in Egypt – with an utmost belief in the importance of supporting and encouraging more Egyptian female researchers, and scientists. As The world needs science, and women’s input is a requirement for science’s progress. “
For her part, Nahla Mokhtar, Corporate Affairs, Engagement & Sustainability Responsible Director at L’Oréal Egypt, praised the participation of Egyptian scientists and researches by stating: “L’Oréal Egypt aims to empower and support women at all levels, through various initiatives and projects, that open new horizons, and provide the opportunity for women to build an integrated society.”
Several accomplished women in science were awarded for 2021 fellowship:
Dr Ingy Ibrahim Abdullah, Post-doctorate fellow for her research on overcoming receptor mutations in cancer targeted therapy.
Dr. Irene Samy Fahim Gabriel, , Post-doctorate fellow, for her research on manufacturing of Sugarcane Bagasse-Based tableware in Egypt.
Ms Sarah Abdel Kadeer, Phd-Student fellow, for her research on-site sustainable treatment methods for agricultural wastewater treatment to be reused in irrigation.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, fellows of 2020 were also celebrated this year. Dr. Yasmin Abo Zeid, on her research on anti-viral activity of iron oxide nanoparticles: Building a bridge between Helwan and Birmingham to combat Infection, and Dr. Al Shaimaa Sayed, on her research on the reasons of solar eruptions and their impacts on satellite operations anomalies, especially on navigation systems ,and Narges Marei awarded on her research on bio-based nanomaterials for central nervous system injuries treatment .
