A group of leading Saudi and British women convened in London on Friday to deliberate on the role of culture, storytelling, and creative exchanges in fortifying bonds between communities.
Event Hosted at Mansion House
The gathering was hosted by Dame Susan Langley, the lady mayor of London, at her official residence, Mansion House. It brought together women holding prominent roles in culture, education, business, finance, and academia, all with strong personal and professional connections to both Saudi Arabia and the UK.
The event was led by Intisar Alyamani, representing the women's leadership initiative Johara Global and the luxury lifestyle brand and ecommerce platform Lavish Concepts.
Remarks from the Lady Mayor
Speaking after the event, Langley said London had long benefited from uniting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. “It was a real pleasure to welcome this inspiring group of women to Mansion House,” she stated. “Conversations like these remind us of the value of those connections. I look forward to seeing these important exchanges continue in the years ahead.”
Focus on Cultural Understanding
Alyamani noted that the discussions highlighted the role culture can play in building international understanding. “We were honored to meet the lady mayor and to reflect on how culture continues to unite people across backgrounds,” she said. “Our discussion touched on shared values, creative exchange and the importance of cultural understanding in a global city like London.”
Participants and Broader Efforts
The participants included representatives from Johara Global and Lavish Concepts, as well as academics, entrepreneurs, and communications professionals involved in initiatives aimed at strengthening cultural and educational links between Saudi Arabia and the UK.
The event was part of broader efforts to encourage dialogue and collaboration between Saudi and British women in leading roles across sectors including the arts, education, and business.
Langley is the third woman to hold the ceremonial civic role of lord mayor of the City of London but the first to officially adopt the title of “lady mayor.” She has made international engagement and cultural cooperation key themes of her 12-month tenure.
