FLO Mumbai, under the leadership of Chairperson Pooja Arambhan Tiwari, was invited to participate in the Women Empowerment Initiative 2025, a pioneering effort led by the UAE Consulate in Mumbai, in collaboration with Emirates NBD and DP World.
To mark this significant occasion, distinguished women achievers from FLO Mumbai were personally selected by Chairperson Pooja Arambhan Tiwari to represent the chapter, reflecting the strength, diversity, and leadership of FLO’s entrepreneurial community. The event celebrated Emirati Women’s Day, observed annually on 28th August, and highlighted 50 years of extraordinary progress under the theme “Hand in Hand.”
Keynote Address by the Consul General
His Excellency, the Consul General of the UAE in Mumbai, delivered a powerful keynote address emphasizing:
- 50 years of Emirati women’s advancement.
- The UAE’s global leadership in gender balance, inclusion, and equal opportunity.
- The theme Hand in Hand, symbolizing collaborative progress.
- The remarkable achievements of Emirati women as ministers, ambassadors, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and officers in the armed forces.
- The belief that women are not just participants in national development— they are key drivers of societal transformation.
His address also highlighted the UAE’s longstanding commitment to women’s empowerment, safety, stability, and social progress.
Address by FLO Mumbai Chairperson, Pooja Arambhan Tiwari
Chairperson Pooja Arambhan Tiwari delivered a special address on behalf of FICCI FLO Mumbai. Her speech focused on:
- The shared values between India and the UAE in advancing women-centric policies.
- FLO Mumbai’s commitment to creating platforms for entrepreneurship, leadership, and capacity-building.
- The importance of cross-cultural collaborations in shaping global women-led growth.
- The significance of representation, mentorship, and empowerment for women in business.
She also spoke about the honour of FLO Mumbai’s participation in this international initiative and how such engagements elevate the chapter’s vision on global leadership and gender equality.
Participation of FLO Mumbai’s Women Achievers
The 25 FLO members attending the event represented entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, creative professionals, social enterprise founders, and innovators. They engaged in:
- Meaningful dialogue on cross-border opportunities.
- Conversations on safety, equality, and women’s progress.
- Exchange of ideas on women-led business collaboration between India and the UAE.
Several women entrepreneurs also shared short reflections, praising the UAE as a pioneering example of safety, stability, economic opportunity, and gender-inclusive policies.
Significance of the Initiative
This event holds high significance for FLO Mumbai because:
- It positioned FLO at a global diplomatic platform
- It enabled cross-cultural exchange on women-led development
- It strengthened ties with the UAE Consulate and major global entities like Emirates NBD and DP World
- It celebrated shared values of empowerment, leadership, and progress
- It showcased the achievements and leadership potential of FLO Mumbai’s members
The initiative also supported FLO’s broader mission to promote international exposure, policy understanding, and global visibility for its members. The presence of FLO members and the Chairperson’s address further strengthened the chapter’s influence and reinforced its role in the international dialogue on women-led progress.