Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah has welcomed Monera Ali Abdullah Al Nowiser as its new assistant meetings and events manager - the first female manager in Saudi Arabia for the Rezidor group.

She joined the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah in 2011 as a meetings and events coordinator, before progressing to her new role.

“I grew up as a self-confident woman believing in my own capabilities and in the strength of women in general. Whenever I imagined my future, I could not see myself living the usual life of most of the Saudi ladies. I was different. I wanted to lead and be in charge of something big that would make me proud,” said Al Nowiser.

“Monera’s appointment to a managerial position is a combination of drive from her and the support from cluster general manager, Shakeel Al Hamid, and we are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Mark Willis, area vice president Middle East and Turkey. “She is a positive role model for our Women in the Leadership programme which has been created to build on our heritage of growing from within and overcoming the barriers that may be blocking women from developing into senior leadership positions.”

“The biggest struggle here in Saudi Arabia is the balance between work and home life. It is predominantly the women's role to stay at home. Whenever a woman succeeds in handling this work-family balance, we need to be proud of ourselves and showcase it,” Al Nowiser said.  I genuinely believe that nothing is impossible and anyone can overcome the challenges and one day I hope to become the first female general manager of a hotel in Saudi Arabia. I hope my actions will inspire and empower other ladies.” - TradeArabia News Service