Moroccan Nuclear Expert Khadija Bendam Receives European Women’s International Leadership Award in Brussels
Marrakech, The Gulf Observer: Moroccan nuclear and radiological safety expert Khadija Bendam has been honored with the European Women’s International Leadership Award (EWILA) in Brussels, recognizing her outstanding leadership and pioneering achievements in the fields of nuclear safety and women’s empowerment.
The prestigious award celebrates exceptional women leaders from across the world who demonstrate excellence, vision, and impact in their respective fields.
Bendam, who leads nuclear and radiological safety and security audits at Morocco’s National Center for Energy, Sciences and Nuclear Techniques (CNESTEN), made history in September when she was appointed President of the International Nuclear Societies Council (INSC) — becoming the first woman globally to hold this position. The appointment was made on the sidelines of the 69th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna.
In addition to her international role, Bendam serves as President of Women in Nuclear (WiN) Morocco, Board and Executive Member of WiN Global and WiN Africa, and Vice-President of the Arab Women’s Network for CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) Security.
In her acceptance speech, Bendam expressed deep gratitude and pride, describing the award as “both a personal recognition and a collective tribute.” She dedicated the honor to “all Moroccan women who work daily with courage, intelligence, and determination for progress, peace, and dignity.”
Bendam highlighted Morocco’s strong commitment to advancing women’s roles under the vision of King Mohammed VI, noting that “His Majesty places Moroccan women at the heart of the development process, striving for a dynamic Morocco, open to the world, proud of its women and their leadership in scientific, economic, social, and diplomatic fields.”
Radouan Bachiri, founding president of EWILA, praised Bendam’s accomplishments, saying that the award—now in its seventh edition—aims to “recognize, value, and encourage women who have made lasting changes in their communities.” He added that it celebrates “perseverance, commitment, and female leadership in all its forms.”
The ceremony was attended by Morocco’s Ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg, Mohamed Ameur, and Morocco’s Ambassador to the European Union, Ahmed Réda Chami, along with numerous European political, academic, and civil society representatives.
Khadija Bendam’s recognition at EWILA marks a new milestone for Moroccan women in science and leadership, symbolizing the growing global acknowledgment of Morocco’s contributions to nuclear safety, innovation, and gender equality.
