Online portal for Qatar Business Women Awards 2008

The decision to delay the submission date for the prestigious award comes as a result of the large numbers of candidates wishing to apply for the QBWA. Through this portal, candidates for the award will be able to easily access and download the application form for submission on the new date.

The QBWA website is a media rich resource that features press releases, information updates, photos from workshops, criteria on participation, and application forms.

Applicants may even use the website to contact advisors and lecturers for guidance on completing the forms correctly and effectively.

Once application forms are downloaded, candidates should fill out the forms and submit them by October 13th, 2008 to the offices of Action Qatar, the appointed PR agency for the award.

So far the QBWA has held three workshops to acquaint participants with the application process and selection criteria. A fourth workshop and clinic is set to be announced due to the high level of demand from young female entrepreneurs and professionals in Qatar.

"The number of enquiries we've received for the QBWA is inspiring and we're happy that so many women want to take part of this unique award process," says Mrs Judith Barton, Director of The Development Partnership who lectures candidates on the selection criteria and application process.

"We are always available for assistance through the QBWA website and are glad to be able to offer such a comprehensive portal of information,"

Barton added.

The lectures at the QBWA workshops are conducted in Arabic and English and put emphasis on the importance of the attendees' business, professional and career achievements, leadership qualities, ability to coach, and their contributions to the greater community. The clinics are in aid of ladies who would like to improve their already submitted application forms.

"It is very encouraging and a great sign of the business talent evident across the nation when so many women from different sectors come to attend these workshops," says Mrs Barton.

"With the QBWA we will hopefully be able to give a platform to scores of businesswomen as well as future generations who have an ambition of taking the nation forward and growing the economy," she added.

Launched in December 2007 under the auspices of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Misnad, the QBWA is a partnership comprising the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI), the Qatari Business Women Forum (QBWF) and Qatar Shell. The QBWA aims to identify and pay tribute to Qatari women who contribute to Qatar's society and economy through their significant professional or entrepreneurial achievements.