Suzanne Mubarak

H.E. Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak, former First Lady of Egypt, is a social scientist. She spent her early career closely studying disadvantaged communities to understand better ways and means of improving their living conditions. These early experiences have greatly shaped her outlook and determination to place the human being at the center of all development activities. By giving a voice to those who are among the most underrepresented in society, Mrs. Mubarak has been instrumental in the creation of institutions entrusted with the formulation of policies, strategies and initiatives directed at the empowerment of women and ensuring the well being of children and youth. She is the Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood and President of the National Council for Women. She is the architect of countless programs that aim to improve the quality of life of individuals from birth to adulthood. Some of the initiatives she has pushed forward include enhancing cultural environments, addressing the special needs of individuals and improving the access and quality of education and health care for all. Her concern for peace as a pre-requisite for sustainable development led her to found the Suzanne Mubarak Women's International Peace Movement in 2003. It focuses on the positive and holistic aspects of peace, helping to forge alternative communication networks, developing capacities, creating avenues for cooperative action and making silent voices heard. She is the proponent of a culture of peace, raising awareness and engaging with the community through strategic partnerships. Mrs. Mubarak’s determination to provide viable, reliable support to those who will shape the future of society has earned her respect and recognition from some of the most prestigious organizations around the world. She has received numerous awards and decorations nationally and internationally for her outstanding contribution to public service. They include the “Avicenna Medal,” UNESCO’s highest award in recognition of her role in promoting cultural activities in Egypt; the "Prize of Tolerance", from the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, and "The American World Book Association for Publication Award" in recognition of her role in the publication of books and her "Reading for All" national campaign. In addition, she has received honorary doctoral degrees from Iwa University, Seoul, Korea, Westminster College, the American University in Cairo and the American University in Spain. Most recently she was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of the Phoenix by Greece's President, H.E. Karlos Papulias, and the Shaikh Rashid Humanitarian Personality Award for 2006 for her unstinting efforts in protecting and enhancing the well-being of women and children.