Fatema Mernissi - Moroccan woman who is an ardent campaigner for women’s rights

Since 1975 Fatema Mernissi has been on the forefront of the critical dialogue about the position of women, and civil society.

A seasoned author of numerous books, Mernissi has written about women within the rapidly changing Muslim communities in Morocco, among other topics, and has directed sociological research for UNESCO, ILO and the UN Population Fund. Born in Fes in 1940, Mernissi is currently a lecturer at the Mohammed V University of Rabat, and continues to be an ardent campaigner for women’s rights. Her publication Beyond the Veil: Male-Female Dynamics in Modern Muslim Society, it still regarded a vital text on the subject.

Ismahane Elouafi - Moroccan woman who assist agriculture technology

Dr Elouafi took up the position of ICBA Director General in 2012, and has more than 15 years experience in agricultural research.

ICBA (International Centre of Biosaline Agriculture) aims to help poor farmers in placers where water is scarce, making it a vital lifeline for those working in various parts of the Arab world. The centre also aims to develop new technologies to allow saltwater to be used to irrigate agriculture. Previously a member of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Elouafi has received many international award - not least the National Reward Medal from His Majesty Mohamed VI, the King of Morocco.