Dubai, UAE, July 5, 2011: Cisco announced today the launch of Cisco Connected Women (CCW) within the UAE - part of a worldwide initiative which offers its female employees opportunities for development, networking and philanthropic activities.

Cisco Connected Women is the first chapter to be established in the region and supports the UAE vision of a 'Connected Nation'. The initiative recognizes the need for more women to participate in the technology industry. Currently, over 50 female Cisco employees in the UAE undertake mentoring, career advice, work-life balance and personal development activities.

By women and for women, CCW develops programs in line with business guidelines, employee network directions and needs of the employees within the UAE. The initiative aims to attract, develop and retain talented female employees, building a local network of women in the technology industry through professional training.

With the aim to include partners and customers in the future, the vision supports the development of world-class, next-generation women leaders by connecting them internally, externally, globally and locally.

Key Highlights
* Formerly known as Cisco Women Action Network, Cisco Connected Women has grown over the last ten years, to over 4,000 global members.
* CCW UAE will focus on three pillars - Business Impact, Talent Development and Corporate Social Responsibility.
* The CCW UAE activities are strategized and executed by a core team of members directed by the CCW organizers, with the guidance of executive sponsors and thought leaders.
* Cisco Connected Women in the UAE provides programs and resources that help women to develop their skills as individual contributors, managers and executives.
* CCW creates a human network of shared intelligence, best practices and rapport, built upon an open community.

Executive Quotes:

Claire Jones, regional manager and CCW UAE Lead, Cisco, UAE

"Cisco Connected Women is passionate about supporting the development of world-class, next generation women leaders. We are delighted to bring the initiative to the region, in order to support the growth of women in top business roles in the UAE. We believe that we have many talented women within Cisco and that through networking, collaboration, coaching and learning from each other we enrich our work and personal experience."

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