Women in Emergency Management: My Journey and Lessons Learned

The upcoming EU CBRN CoE Newsletter will put the spotlight on Women in CBRN. Meet some of the inspiring professionals contributing to CBRN risk mitigation across the CoE network ahead of the release.

In the realm of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) response, the contributions of women are increasingly vital. As a woman working in the field, I have always felt a profound sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully to this critical area for security. As Head of Scientific and Technology Division at the Radiation Protection Department of the Ministry of Health in Kuwait, and Chief Nuclear Medicine Specialist, I want to share my journey and the lessons I have learned along the way, particularly regarding the empowerment of women in emergency management.

My involvement in the EU CBRN CoE Project 82, especially in the medical capacity-building training for emergency response to CBRN incidents, has been a transformative experience for me. From the outset, I realised that the success of such training went beyond simply conducting a course; it lay in the application of the knowledge we gained. Inspired by my experiences, I took the initiative to organise similar training sessions to share the insights I learned, both scientifically and administratively. This has enabled me to implement effective protocols and best practices in my community.

"My involvement in the EU CBRN CoE Project 82, especially in the medical capacity-building training for emergency response to CBRN incidents, has been a transformative experience for me."

The critical need for women representation in CBRN emergency management

Being a woman in this field, I understand the critical need for representation in emergency committees. Our input is especially vital during crises, where diverse perspectives can lead to more effective solutions. I strive to ensure that women’s voices are heard and valued, particularly in environments where cultural norms may impose additional barriers.

One area I have been particularly passionate about is addressing the unique needs of women during emergencies. For example, I have focused on the challenges faced by women who wear hijabs, especially concerning protective clothing and decontamination processes. By advocating for tailored solutions, I aim to create a more inclusive environment within CBRN response efforts.

"One area I have been particularly passionate about is addressing the unique needs of women during emergencies. (…) By advocating for tailored solutions, I aim to create a more inclusive environment within CBRN response efforts."

Moreover, I have been fortunate to inspire my female colleagues to engage in emergency response teams and training programs. By sharing my experiences and demonstrating the value of our contributions, I hope to motivate other women to pursue careers in this essential field. My commitment to this work has deepened, especially after Kuwait was selected as the first country to host local training resulting from the Project 82.

Through my journey, I have come to understand the immense impact women can have in CBRN operations. I believe that fostering an environment where our contributions are recognized and valued is essential for building effective response teams. My work is not just about enhancing my skills; it’s about paving the way for future generations of women in emergency management.

"My work is not just about enhancing skills; it’s about paving the way for future generations of women in emergency management."

In conclusion, my story is just one of many that illustrate the vital roles women play in CBRN response. By addressing the specific challenges we face, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring future leaders, I hope to highlight the significant impact women can make in ensuring community safety and resilience. As we continue to support initiatives like Project 82, I encourage all women in the field to share their voices and experiences. Together, we can shape a brighter future for emergency response in the GCC region and beyond.

"By addressing the specific challenges we face, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring future leaders, I hope to highlight the significant impact women can make in ensuring community safety and resilience."