September 7, 2023
WoEgypt

Women have always played a significant role in the tourism sector around the world, however, few of those women have held leadership roles in government and private sector tourism organizations. To promote sustainable tourism effectively in Africa, it is imperative to increase the representation of women in leadership roles within the industry. There is hope for Africa as the African Tourism Board (ATB) is leading the way in championing the inclusion of women in leadership roles within the sector.

As part of those efforts, ATB has recently appointed a female Secretary-General, Amb. Hiwote Anberbir to help lead their organization and has also appointed an Egyptian woman, Nancy Abdelhadi, to join their executive board. “Nancy Abdelhadi’s vast experience in advancing African tourism has earned her the appointment as an Executive Board Member, marking her as the first-ever representative from Egypt and North Africa within ATB’s Board.”Nancy’s appointment not only signifies a personal accomplishment but also underscores the growing recognition of women’s leadership in the tourism industry.

The African Tourism Board is a regional organization with a vital mission—to champion Africa as a premier destination and to aid African nations in maximizing their tourism potential. In a continent blessed with diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences, the ATB’s role in nurturing tourism is paramount. It is a dedicated organization committed to unlocking Africa’s rich tourism treasures for the benefit of the entire continent.

Nancy’s journey to this pivotal role has been shaped by a diverse tapestry of experiences and expertise. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and International Relations and a Master’s Degree in Diplomacy and International Relations, from the US, her academic foundation has equipped Nancy with the tools to navigate intricate international landscapes.

One of the defining moments of Nancy’s career transpired during her graduate studies when she presented research on women’s empowerment in the Middle East at the esteemed Sheikh Zayed University’s “Women as Global Leaders” conference in Dubai, UAE, in 2007. This experience ignited Nancy’s enduring passion for advancing the cause of women’s empowerment—a commitment that continues to guide her professional journey.

Nancy’s professional path has traversed private and public organizations in the United States, the Middle East, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). 

Now, as she embarks on this new chapter as an Executive Board Member of ATB, Nancy stands poised to make a lasting impact. Her appointment resonates with the ATB’s vision—to reconnect Egypt with the broader African continent and to showcase Africa as the ultimate tourism destination. Tourism transcends its economic significance; it creates numerous employment opportunities, fuels economic growth, and uplifts the livelihoods of countless Africans.

The ATB, with its diverse leadership and shared commitment to fostering tourism in Africa, holds the key to realizing this vision. ATB’s Secretary General, also a woman, exemplifies their dedication to gender equality within the organization.

As a woman and a representative of North Africa, Nancy is resolute in actively shaping the ATB’s mission. Together with the board, she will work hard to relentlessly spotlight Africa’s untapped potential, propelling it to the forefront of global tourism.

Africa is not merely a destination—it’s an extraordinary, uncharted experience. With ATB, she is eager toembark on this transformative journey. She is determined to leverage her experiences, unwavering advocacy for women’s empowerment, and fervent commitment to the tourism sector to illuminate Africa on the global tourism map

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