Women on the frontlines of climate action

This month, we celebrate the stories of three remarkable Women Leaders in Climate whose contributions drive impactful change and inspire future generations.

Hala Dahmane: Leading the way in marine conservation

We had the privilege of speaking with Hala Dahmane, President and Managing Director of AZRAQ, an organization passionately committed to marine conservation. Her journey reflects her dedication to safeguarding our oceans for future generations.

Starting as an environmental systems engineer in Spain, specializing in water management, air pollution, and sanitation, Hala combined her technical expertise with business acumen,

which she gained through an MBA. Her work with environmental forums in Latin America and Spain, uniting investors and government entities, laid the foundation for her impactful career.

After moving to Dubai, Hala volunteered with AZRAQ, driven by her love for the oceans. She became managing director three years ago, bringing her vision to life, connecting local communities, and forging partnerships for greater impact. Under her leadership, AZRAQ has:

• Plated over 1282 corals in partnership with Fujairah Marine Conservation.

• Cleared more than 3 tons of marine debris in 7.5 years.

• Educated over 12680 people, inspiring a culture of environmental stewardship.

As a woman leader, Hala champions inclusivity and states that collaboration is the key to sustainability. She sees the UAE as an ideal place for women in leadership to thrive and drive change. Hala’s story is a powerful reminder that protecting our planet is not just a responsibility; it’s a legacy.

Maz Fletcher: The future is female

This month, I welcomed my daughter Hazel on International Women’s Day — a meaningful coincidence that’s made me reflect on why so many women are drawn to sustainability work. I think, for many of us, it’s about searching for a deeper purpose — a way to help heal a world that feels increasingly fractured. Climate work demands empathy, resilience, and long-term thinking — traits often associated with women, not because we’re born with them but because we’ve had to cultivate them. Motherhood hasn’t changed my priorities, but it’s made them feel more urgent. The future we talk about in climate circles isn’t abstract anymore; it’s personal. I want my daughter to grow up in a world where compassion, care, and community matter just as much as profit. Maybe that’s why women keep showing up in this space — because sustainability is about nurturing systems, not just managing resources.