Women’s Day is a celebration of resilience, ambition, andthe courage that drives women to challenge the status quo. MATATO has been steadfast in its commitment to supporting and empowering women by addressing the challenges working women face, particularly in the tourism industry. By paving the way for women to advance, MATATO exemplifies its belief in women's potential—evident in the fact that the association itself is led by a woman. Additionally, the MATATO Malé Student Chapter is also led by a female student, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to fostering female leadership. This Women’s Day, MATATO is proud to share an inspiring story—one of perseverance, leadership, and determination—through the journey of our Student Chapter President, Ms. Kausar Abdul Ganee.
Currently a second-year Civil Engineering student at VillaCollege, she has embraced a journey that was not initially her childhood dream but has become her chosen path. Her academic foundation began at Faaf Atoll Education Centre, followed by foundation studies at the Maldives National University. A significant milestone in her journey was securing a place among the National Top 10 for O’ Levels—a moment that continues to inspire her pursuit of excellence.
Recently, she has stepped into a leadership role as thePresident of the MATATO Student Chapter. This position, her first in leadership, presents a learning curve, but she embraces the challenge wholeheartedly. Determined to make a meaningful impact, she dedicates herself to ensuring her role is not just a title but a catalyst for real change. It is
important to note that working while studying full-time is no small feat.
Not only is Kausar the President of the MATATO StudentChapter, but she is also working at MATATO and plays a key role in the organization, handling content creation, outreach, and operational support. Additionally, she works part-time as a tuition teacher, adding another dimension to her already dynamic routine. Her previous experiences, including a stint as a receptionist at Crystal Medicals, have equipped her with resilience and adaptability—skills essential for navigating both professional and academic spheres. Balancing so many responsibilities alongside her studies is nothing short of remarkable.
Leadership has always been a part of her identity. Even inschool, she actively participated in academic and extracurricular activities, excelling in speaking engagements and writing competitions. These early experiences laid the groundwork for her current endeavors, including her recent involvement with W&D Maldives (Women & Democracy), where she continues to grow as a leader advocating for women's empowerment and social change.
Her aspirations extend beyond engineering. She envisions afuture where she not only excels in her field but also builds a name for herself through impactful contributions, particularly within MATATO. Entrepreneurship is also on her horizon, as she dreams of establishing her own business. However, her most heartfelt ambition is to become the breadwinner for her family, giving back to her parents and siblings for their unwavering
support and sacrifices. A sentiment that resonates with many women.
The journey has not been without its challenges. Steppinginto leadership and professional spaces at a young age often invites skepticism and criticism, a challenge many working women and young professionals face. Assumptions about her capabilities have been a constant hurdle, along with false narratives and reminders of past mistakes. However, she has learned to rise above the noise, choosing to let her work define her rather than explanations or justifications.
Another major challenge was adapting to life in Male’.Finding stable accommodation, managing finances, and balancing work with studies tested her resilience. Yet, these struggles became lessons in independence and strength, shaping her into the person she is today.
Through it all, her strongest pillar of support has been herfamily. Her father, in his quiet way, always encouraged her to stand on her own. Her mother, sisters, and best friend, Kudaa, have been her unwavering sources of strength. Their belief in her, even during moments of self-doubt, has kept her moving forward. They have been her safe space, reminding her of her worth and purpose, no matter how tough the road ahead seemed.
As she continues to break barriers, she carries a messagefor all women: “Challenges will come, doubts will arise, and society will impose limitations. But every step forward, no matter how small, is a step toward change. Women everywhere are rewriting the rules, proving that they are more than capable of leading, innovating, and achieving greatness. The journey is not easy, but it is worth it. Keep pushing forward, because every dream is within reach, and every effort contributes to the equality that women
rightfully deserve.”
Kausar’s story is not only inspiring but also deeplyrelatable to the hardworking and strong women in our society. The challenges she faced are not unique, but they are tough. Juggling so many responsibilities, especially for girls from out of Male’, adjusting to life in Male’, embracing changes and new opportunities, and most of all, not giving
up—even when you are on the brink of it—is what will help you become the woman
you aspire to be. May we continue to break barriers and achieve success, In Sha
Allah. Happy Women’s Day and Ramazan Mubarak!