In the heart of the United Arab Emirates’ ambitious drive towards sustainability and climate action, H.H. Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan stands at the forefront as a beacon of inspiration and leadership. Holding pivotal roles in various influential organizations, she has dedicated her life to advancing the cause of sustainability on a global scale.
With an impressive academic background including a Master of Studies in Sustainability Leadership, a Master of Philosophy in Modern Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Cambridge, and a degree in Business Administration from Zayed University, Sheikha Shamma’s expertise in sustainability is both academic and practical. Her contributions in this field have garnered her immense respect and recognition.
As President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), Sheikha Shamma leads the charge towards achieving the UAE’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. The UICCA, operating as a non-partisan think tank, unites public and private sectors, academic institutions, and NGOs to provide valuable recommendations on climate action and the transition to a green economy.
Beyond the UICCA, Sheikha Shamma’s influence spans various advisory boards and councils. Her roles as Chair of Alliances for Global Sustainability, advisory positions at Yale’s Center for Environmental Law and Policy, Pure Harvest, and Bamboo Capital, as well as being the Honorary President of the Emirates Green Building Council and a member of the UAE Circular Economy Council, showcase her commitment to driving sustainable change at a systemic level.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Sheikha Shamma has received prestigious awards, including the 2020 Arab Women’s Awards UAE for Inspirational Woman of the Year and the 2021 AIBMENA Windtower Award. In 2022, she made history as the first woman from the GCC to participate in the Atlantic Council Global Energy Center’s Women Leaders in Energy and Climate Fellowship.
Her dedication to community development and social responsibility is exemplified through the Shamma bint Sultan Sustainability Initiatives social enterprise. This endeavour aims to collaborate with stakeholders to enhance community, corporate, and governmental efforts towards a clean energy economy. Focusing on sustainability and natural climate solutions, the enterprise champions initiatives that significantly impact air quality and global environmental health.
Sheikha Shamma’s multifaceted endeavours extend beyond sustainability. She is a prominent figure in the Al Asayl Show Jumping team and a published author of four children’s books. Her insightful columns in The National newspaper and co-authored articles in “Future Governments – Actions and Insights” further attest to her diverse talents.
Her contributions to academia are equally noteworthy. Sheikha Shamma has presented research papers at global conferences covering an array of subjects, from gender and migration studies to sustainable development and consumer behaviour. Her insights and expertise have earned her a position as a Research Associate at the Institute for Social and Economic Research at Zayed University.
Guided by the visionary legacy of her great-grandfather, the UAE’s founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikha Shamma remains steadfast in her pursuit of sustainability, philanthropy, and female empowerment. Her actions speak to a commitment to ensuring that Sheikh Zayed’s vision continues to positively impact the world.
In every facet of her career, Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan stands as a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership. Through her unwavering dedication, she embodies the spirit of progress and sustainability, leaving an indelible mark on the UAE and the global community alike.
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