As part of Europe Month 2023 activities, the European Union in Egypt was joined by Egypt’s National Council for Women (NCW) to open “al-Masrya”, an exhibition of handcrafts made by Egyptian women. Representing the EU was Ambassador Christian Berger, Head of the EU Delegation in Egypt, whereas the NCW was represented by its President, Maya Morsy.
The al-Masriya, literally the Egyptian woman, exhibition opened on 31 May and ran for three days. The aim was to highlight and honour Egyptian women’s accomplishments and successful experiences. Important activities included the Czech and Egyptian Heroines Exhibition, also motivational side conversations with well-known Egyptian women from various professions. High profile Egyptian and European figures attended the event.
Dr Morsy said it was a pleasure to work with Ambassador Berger; she lauded the fruitful and consistent partnership and cooperation between NCW and the EU in supporting Egyptian women in all fields. “Today,” she said, “we celebrate iconic and pioneering Egyptian women in various fields, who paved the way for future generations of girls to achieve their dreams, and represent a great source of inspiration to them. The sky is the limit for Egyptian women; there are no longer doors doors before them. Thanks to the strong support of the current political leadership, women have attained topmost posts; the political leadership staunchly believes in empowering women and achieving gender equality.”
Ambassador Berger commented that EU-Egypt cooperation portfolio places women’s empowerment on top of its agenda.
Al-Masrya exhibition displayed 20 types of products which originated from 20 governorates, also seven female entrepreneurs and fashion designers participated. The exhibition included four pavilions which displayed the products produced in the vocational training workshops offered by NCW different programmes. The products offered for sale include macramé, traditional and modern garments, copperware, home utitlities, organic cosmetics, recycled bags, silver and copper jewellery, leather products, spices and ready-to-eat food.