On Monday morning, August 11, the Bahrain Women's Union held a ceremony to honor the winners of the "Ms. Thajba Al Mansouri Competition to Support Women Working in the Crafts Sector" in the Riffa Hall of the Regency Intercontinental Hotel.
The ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Lulwa Saleh Al Awadhi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Women, a number of female members of the Supreme Council for Women, members of the House of Representatives, the Undersecretaries of the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, the CEO of the Bahrain Islamic Bank, heads and members of women's associations, and a number of representatives of official institutions and civil society.
The President of the Bahraini Women's Union, Ms. Ahlam Ahmed Rajab, delivered a speech on this occasion, in which she praised the generous support and care of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women, may God protect her, for Bahraini women.
She affirmed the union's aspiration to enhance joint cooperation between the two sides. She also expressed her pride in the role of Bahraini women in various fields and the importance of supporting women working in crafts as a tributary to preserving heritage and strengthening the local economy. She also commended Ms. Thajba Al Mansouri's efforts in supporting female craftspeople.
The ceremony also featured a comprehensive documentary film highlighting the history of the Bahraini Women's Union and its many achievements in the field of women's empowerment over the past years.
In addition, another film was shown, showcasing the most prominent national works and achievements of Ms. Thajba Al Mansouri, who has been a role model for women's and development work, adding a human and personal dimension to the occasion.
The competition resulted in four women winning grand prizes, and the federation honored all 15 participants. The competition featured works of art including weaving, embroidery, palm frond work, and incense making. The celebration also included a display of the participants' handicrafts.
It's worth noting that the Women's Union launched this competition on December 1 of last year, 2024, to coincide with Bahraini Women's Day, which is celebrated on December 1 of each year.
The competition affirms the role and status of women craftspeople, highlights their efforts, and encourages them to continue practicing these professions, which are deeply rooted in the history of the Kingdom of Bahrain. It also highlights the importance of women working from home in this segment of society.
