First Lady Fazna Ahmed reflected on Saturday on how leaders could be a source of comfort and support to employees and stated that good leaders would help employees ensure work-life balance and embrace flexibilities such as flexitime and telecommuting. She made these remarks while speaking at the opening ceremony of the National HR Convention and Expo 2023. The event is hosted by the Maldives Association of Human Resource Professionals (MAHRP).
Noting that work-life balance is crucial for mental health, the First Lady spoke about ensuring stress-free work environments. She also urged executives and management staff to check their staff’s health and mental well-being routinely.
The First Lady also highlighted the crucial role of women in national development. She noted that the administration had increased paid maternity and paternity leave, which she said some employers did not favour. She urged employers not to prevent women from progressing on the corporate ladder despite their right to maternity leave and family responsibilities.
She also called on senior officials of HR departments and others in leadership and policy-making positions to consider ways to provide comfort and support to their employees. In conclusion, the First Lady noted that much needed to be done to address workplace challenges and ensure equality.
She urged the participants of the HR conference to look into ways to implement flexibility and ensure they listen to their employees. She also spoke about the importance of hosting such conferences and extended her gratitude to the conference organisers.
