Dow Chemical employee praised for dedication to improving people's lives in Egypt

The award recognizes Katia for her passion and contribution towards improving the lives of those less fortunate in her native Egypt as well as elsewhere in Africa. Katia is one of a handful of Dow employees worldwide to be recognized with this award.

In her role as a Human Resources Manager, Katia interacts with employees regularly to educate and inform them on professional development, recruiting, and HR policies. However, her passion for understanding people's needs goes far beyond her professional role. Katia, who has been with Dow Chemical in the Middle East for six years, has from the young age of 15 been involved in humanitarian activities such as cooking or providing food to the hungry, building shelters for the homeless and sponsoring those who need assistance in life. For a number of years, Katia has dedicated herself to volunteer events and activities throughout Egypt, pursuing what she calls, "an incredible feeling of unconditional giving."

Applauding Katia's sustained efforts towards the betterment of the community, Stefan Vos, Human Resources Director, Dow Chemical India, Middle East and Africa (IMEA), said:

"The 'I am the Human Element' award is a symbol of the selfless contributions that Dow employees make each day to bring about positive changes to the world. We are extremely proud of Katia's dedication and commitment to causes that truly exemplify the spirit of the Human Element at Dow."

Katia recently volunteered in southern Egypt to serve some of the most remote villages and interact with some of the neediest members of the Egyptian population. While visiting the sick and distributing food and medication is a significant component of this activity, Katia also helped educate residents on the importance of hygiene, consulted families on the importance of education, and helped assess project ideas for unemployed husbands and older children in the family.

Launched in 2006, Dow's 'I am the Human Element' award is an internal recognition based on the award-winning "Human Element" advertising campaign. The Human Element is a symbol of Dow's global reputation as one of the world's leading companies and a responsible corporate citizen. The campaign communicates Dow's mission of harnessing the power of science and technology to solve human problems around the world. 'I am the Human Element' honors employees such as Katia who through their passion, courage, innovation and attitude of fearless accountability, improve the lives of those less fortunate.

Dow Chemical in the Middle East has been recognized for its commitment to a work environment that embraces diversity, promotes inclusion and rewards respect. In 2008, Dow was named 'Employer of the Year' at the 2nd Middle East Business Achievement (MEBA) Awards. That same year, Dow received the 'HR Initiative of the Year' award for 'I am the Human Element' at the Middle East HR Summit Excellence Awards. Dow was also honored with the 'Best Workplace Practices' award at the 5th CSR Summit 2008 in Dubai in recognition of the company's innovative and distinctive internal practices.