General Motors Africa and Middle East marked International Women’s Day by championing its ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion in the region.
To mark the global event it hosted The Women in Data Science (WiDS) virtual conference in Dubai on 8 March in collaboration with Stanford University.
“Underpinned by the knowledge that diverse perspectives and a dynamic team are at the heart of current and future business success, GM is shining the light on over 370 women, further complimenting GM’s overall female representation in its workforce,” said the manufacturer in a statement.
“At General Motors, we are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce and globally we aspire to be the most inclusive company in the world,” said Luay Al Shurafa, president and managing director, GM Africa and Middle East. “From putting in place local employee programs and initiatives to building on our global efforts to support our MENA community, all of this is underpinned by our commitment to our people and what we call the three tenants: Trust, Empathy and Flexibility. Female empowerment is something we always champion at GM and we will continue driving equal opportunities across the board to help better our society and our business.”
GM continues to be a key advocate in inspiring future STEM leaders in the region and beyond, contributing to GM AMEO’s alignment with the UAE’s gender balance vision
“Data science is at the heart of our journey to help create a future that is safe, equitable and all-electric. Investing in the development of this talented workforce is critical. That’s why we’re proud to support Stanford’s Global Women In Data Science Conference,” stated Sheri Marshall, Head of Global Analytic Capability Development at GM International.
The regional WiDS Conference profiles professionals and students in various fields to share technical trends, discuss ethics in machine learning and share how data science is advancing by solving complex issues in health, environment and other industries.
“WiDS is our chance to take our One Team behaviour outside the GM walls to collaborate and celebrate wins for all women in data science,” added Stacy Pawlovich, Analytics Enablement Leader at GM International.
