CANADA: Almas Jiwani, President of UN Women Canada, Named One of Women's Post Magazine's 20 Women to Watch in 2012

Almas Jiwani, President of the National Committee for the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women Canada) has been named one of 20 Women to Watch by Women's Post Magazine.

A prominent humanitarian and influential activist, Almas Jiwani's humanitarian work has been recognized by the Governor General of Canada, as well as international entities including Governments of Greece, Uganda and New Guinea. In 2010, Jiwani was the recipient of the International Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Chief Justice of Uganda. In 2009, The Hellenic Post Office Authority, under the auspices of the Government of Greece, honored Ms Jiwani with commemorative postal stamps. She is the first Canadian to win the Goddess Artemis Award from the Euro-American Women's Council and inducted into Women's hall of fame in Greece.

Jiwani first became involved in humanitarianism during her work with His Highness the Aga Khan Council for Canada and various Canadian charitable organizations. When UN Women Canada was created in January 2011, Jiwani was thrilled to lead this new UN super entity in Canada.

"At the UN Women Head Quarters, Almas holds a special place in our books for her outstanding service to the underprivileged. She has helped UN Women forge important corporate global partnerships with key players, and has conducted outstanding work to profile the work of UN Women," said Antonie de Jong, Director of Resource Mobilization at the UN Women Head Quarters.

Ovais Shah, Member, Canadian National Committee of UN Women states: "Her resiliency, outstanding demeanor and contagious energy make her a whirl wind of bustling activity. Under her seasoned leadership at UN Women Canada, the National Committee of UN Women has reached new heights."

"Her work for the United Nations Women in Canada, and struggle for the rights of women and girls, creates hope for thousands of voiceless, oppressed and victimized women all over the world. Her speaking engagements, grass roots humanitarian work and energetic personality are renowned globally. As a progressive, smart, charismatic and futuristic women and a strong advocate of corporate social responsibility, Almas will definitely be a woman to watch in the year 2012," said Sara Waxman.

Maya Sardouk, leader of UN Women Canada Quebec branch and Chief Editor of RSVP Magazine asserts: "I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to Almas for the recognition. I wish that the year 2012 brings Almas and UN Women Canada much continued success."

"Almas has high energy and passion and her unwavering commitment and dedication to women and girls should be emulated by all," stated Ms Mina Mawani, member of UN Women Canada Advisory board.

For more information on the work of Almas Jiwani, visit the Website of UN Women Canada.

About UN Women Canada

The National Committee for UN Women Canada raises the UN Women's profile and promotes its work in Canada; raises funds for UN Women projects; creates awareness within the Canadian governments for increased funding for UN Women projects; and encourages non-governmental organizations to promote and support UN Women initiatives.