MUSCAT : The panel, titled ‘Ambassador’s Forum: Shaping Change Beyond Borders’, featured three distinguished diplomats: Her Excellency Ingrid Amer, Ambassador of Estonia; Her Excellency Maartje Peters, Ambassador of the Netherlands; and Her Excellency Sumaiya Al Yarubi, Honorary Consul for New Zealand in Oman.

The session was moderated by Anne Kurian, Founder of The Luxury Bulletin, and brought to light not only personal stories of overcoming challenges but also calls to action for redefining diplomacy through a gender-inclusive lens.

Opening the conversation, Her Excellency Ingrid Amer reflected on the evolution of women’s roles in international relations: “Women bring different perspectives to diplomacy. It was once seen as a man’s domain, but today, more women are entering the field. With their unique strengths, women can really contribute a lot.”

She also shared a powerful reflection on internalised barriers: “The glass ceiling was inside me. As women, we often strive to be the epitome of perfection. But we need to gather our strengths and claim our place. The ceiling isn’t always outside — it can be within.”

Her Excellency Maartje Peters acknowledged the structural challenges women face but emphasised the importance of self-awareness and mindset in navigating them: “Yes, the glass ceiling is definitely there. I remember making excuses, saying I had other obligations — and it worked. But what really made the difference was having the right attitude. I had to be clear about what I wanted.”

Her Excellency Sumaiya Al Yarubi, one of the youngest honorary consuls to be appointed in Oman, spoke candidly about her own experience: “I was on maternity leave when I received my accreditation. When I arrived at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a gentleman said, ‘You’re the youngest to receive this.’ I actually tried to appear older — because I was told this role usually goes to a retired businessman.”

She continued: “That’s when the imposter syndrome started to kick in. You often have those doubts and start to feel the glass ceiling. But there’s something inside you that pushes forward. It’s okay to be vulnerable, but reassure yourself of your worth. It’s powerful when we share our stories and show others how we got to where we are.”

The Ambassador’s Forum highlighted a central truth: while structural barriers still exist, internal barriers — self-doubt, perfectionism, fear of visibility — can be just as limiting.

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