Registration & Networking
Warm welcome, attendee check-in, and morning networking.
About Us
Celebrating strength, vision, and the unstoppable spirit of women
The Women of Substance Conference & Awards is a premier gathering that honours exceptional women who lead with purpose, integrity, and impact. Taking place on 09 September 2026, the event brings together trailblazers, innovators, entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders for powerful conversations, transformative insights, and meaningful connections.
Through keynote sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the platform empowers women to elevate their influence and expand their potential. The awards ceremony spotlights outstanding achievers whose contributions uplift industries, economies, society, and communities.
Organised by WILL — Women Inspiring Leadership & Legacy, an initiative by the Zarks Media ecosystem, the conference benefits from trusted editorial leadership, deep industry reach, and meaningful engagement across regional and global communities.
Advisory Board
Guiding integrity, credibility, and strategic direction
The Advisory Board comprises distinguished leaders, innovators, and industry experts who strengthen the platform's mission and ensure a fair, transparent, and impactful recognition process.
Subela Bhatia
Founder and MD at Imperium Middle East
Prof. Souri Banerjee
Director of BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus
Uma Shankari
Managing Director at Luckystar Computers
Nominations Open
Help us spotlight women who embody excellence and purpose
Nominations celebrate exceptional women whose leadership, impact, and achievements inspire others. Submit stories that deserve recognition and make their influence visible on a prestigious stage.
Agenda
Event schedule for 09 September 2026
A thoughtfully curated agenda designed to inspire dialogue, celebrate achievement, and build valuable connections.
9.00 AM
9.45 AM
Introduction and Welcome
Opening remarks and conference overview.
9.50 AM
Keynote Address
An inspiring keynote celebrating leadership and legacy.
10.00 AM
Presentation
Insights from a featured thought leader.
10.15 AM
Panel Discussion
Economic Empowerment
10.45 AM
Presentation
Leadership lessons and practical strategies.
11.00 AM
Panel Discussion
The Power of Women in Innovation & Technology
11.30 AM
Coffee Break
Refreshments and networking break.
12.00 PM
Presentation
Fresh perspectives on leadership, wellbeing, and growth.
12.15 PM
Panel Discussion
Wellbeing, Balance & Resilience
12.45 PM
Award Ceremony
Honouring outstanding women of substance and impact.
Register Now
Join an inspiring community shaping the future
Be part of an empowering gathering that celebrates leadership, impact, and the unstoppable spirit of women. Secure your place and experience a day of insight, recognition, and meaningful connection.
Sponsors
Our Partners
Power the Women of Substance 2026, enabling meaningful recognition of women leaders across the UAE and helping deliver an elevated, impactful celebration of achievement and leadership.
Venue
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus has been a premier UAE engineering institution since 2000, known for high-quality technical education, KHDA–QS 5-star excellence, and strong industry-ready programs. As part of the over 60-year-old BITS Pilani University in India, the campus upholds a legacy of academic rigor while adapting to the UAE's dynamic environment.
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus Al Rowaiyah First Academic City Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Media Partners
Our Media Partners
Contact Us
Connect with our team
Our partners play a vital role in shaping the Women of Substance Conference & Awards 2026. Their support brings this landmark platform to life, enabling meaningful recognition of women's leadership across the UAE.
Connect with us to explore collaboration opportunities, secure speaking slots, or engage in sponsorship roles for this national celebration of impact and excellence.
For General Enquiries
info@thewomenofsubstance.com
Speaker Management
speakers@thewomenofsubstance.com
For Sponsorship & Partnership
sponsorship@thewomenofsubstance.com
Zarks Media FZE
Fujairah - Creative Tower, Fujairah, 4422, Fujairah, UAE
info@zarksmedia.com