RIYADH – Courtyard by Marriott Diplomatic Quarter hosted #WomenWhoInspire, an event introducing an inspiring panel of three pioneering women in the fields of health & wellness and athleticism, all of whom have become prominent figures in the worlds of fitness, sports, and female empowerment in Saudi Arabia. With an underlying ethos of inspiring the next generation of young Saudi professionals, Courtyard by Marriott has always championed the progressive thinker, and just like their trailblazer speakers, the Courtyard by Marriott is a contemporary leader in corporate hospitality ahead of its counterparts.

“Courtyard strongly encourages everyone to pursue their dream and passion; because we share this passion of moving forward, of never settling, and because when they succeed, we succeed.” –

Coinciding with Saudi Arabia’s mission with 2020’s Quality of Life Program, the speaking panel shed light on three Arab women who have worked as an embodiment of wellness and women empowerment; Haya Sawan, Mariam Fardous, and Asma Abadi. Haya Sawan, Fitness Host at MBC’s Hamsa and Founder of She FIT gym, defines her brand by the woman she trains: “stronger than she thinks”, “capable”, “powerful”, and “beautiful”. Sawan spoke about her inspirational journey as an entrepreneur and a mother of two committing to a healthy lifestyle with today’s fast-paced life.Mariam Fardous, a Saudi doctor and humanitarian, is known as the first Arab woman to dive at the North Pole, and the third worldwide, made it a mission as a youngster to “enter history”. Through her speech, she communicated one’s capability in achieving their goals and working towards them.Asma Abadi, a martial art trainer and NuYu Gym fitness manager successfully blurred the lines between gender and athletics. Through a live meditation session, Abadi demonstrated the importance of learning the basics of self-defense for females in the 21st century.The #WomenWhoInspire event concluded with a 3-course dinner served by Courtyard By Marriott’s finest dining, catering to an elite guest of VIPs, social media influencers, and media representatives of Saudi Arabia. — SG