Public Affairs

The Embassies of Australia and Canada, together with AUK and Playbook, hosted “Smart Takes: Women, Peace and Security” – a forum exploring progress, challenges and future prospects 25 years after the adoption of the landmark UN resolution on Women Peace and Security (WPS). 
 
The event highlighted women’s leadership in diplomacy, peace, and security, and many other areas, underscoring their vital role in advancing the WPS agenda. It brought together diplomats, students, academics, professionals, and members of civil society for a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives.
 
In her opening remarks, AUK President Dr. Rawda Al Awwad said: “For us at AUK, this isn’t just an academic discussion. It reflects what an American style liberal arts education is meant to do which is to connect learning to people’s lives, to deepen understanding, and to remind us that education can be a quiet but powerful force for peace.”
 
The program featured TED-style presentations by distinguished women leaders, including: 

 
HE Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ebraheem Duaij Al-Sabah – Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivered the keynote address, outlining Kuwait’s extensive efforts to build the participation of women across the security services, as well as the participation of Kuwait in international fora on the issue of women peace and security. 
 
Her Excellency Melissa Kelly, Ambassador of Australia to the State of Kuwait, said: “The Women, Peace and Security agenda is more important than ever around the world women and girls are disproportionately affected by conflict, at a time when we are seeing historically high levels of conflict and challenge to international law. It’s therefore vital that we maintain momentum around the global WPS agenda, making this anniversary the ideal opportunity to bring together leaders in Kuwait to shed new light on the issue.”
 
Her Excellency Tara Scheurwater, Ambassador-designate of Canada to the State of Kuwait, added: “In peace and security, business, and health indeed, in every sector, outcomes are stronger and more sustainable when women are meaningfully included. Gender equality is not only a matter of rights, but a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity. This anniversary is a powerful reminder that when women have an equal voice and seat at the table, communities and nations are more resilient, secure, and just.”
 
AUK faculty members Dr. Shareefa Al-Adwani and Ms. Dima Aburshaid, as well as AUK alumna Ms. Taiba Al-Humaidhi, were also present to share their professional insights and personal experiences in leadership and peacebuilding.
 
The “Smart Takes: Women, Peace and Security” forum celebrated women’s leadership, fostered inclusive dialogue, and explored how emerging technologies are shaping the future of diplomacy and security, particularly in amplifying women’s voices and influence on the global stage.
  
  
   

Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK President
  

HE Melissa Kelly, Australian Ambassador to Kuwait
  

HE Tara Scheurwater, Ambassador-Designate of Canada to Kuwait
  

HE Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Ebraheem Duaij Al-Sabah – Assistant Foreign Minister for    Human Rights Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  

Sheikha Fouz Fahad Al-Sabah – Founder and Managing Director, Khaleejesque
  

Ms. Taiba H. Al-Humaidhi – Founder and Executive Producer, Lei Wa Lakom
  

Ms. Sundus Hussein – IT and AI Expert and Founder of Thoubha App
  

Ms. Hind AlKhatrash – Founder and CEO, Leap
  

Ms. Nada Darwish, Chief Operations Officer, Playbook
 

Ms. Dima Aburshaid - Senior Instructor of Computer Science, AUK
  

Dr. Shareefa Abdullah Al-Adwani, Associate Professor of Political Science, AUK
  

Group photo of the speakers
 

(left to right) Ms. Ghada E. Khalaf, Vice Chair BOT at AUK; Dr. Rawda Awwad, AUK President; Dr. Aseel Awadhi, Vice President of Academic Affairs; H.E Ambassador Nabeela Al-Mulla
  

Group photo of the audience