Elizabeth Wood, Women's Circle Coach and Founder of Inspire Me LLC, addressing the gathering that brought together over 75 women for an evening of introspection, conversation, and empowerment.
Doha, Qatar: The Women’s Circle, an initiative by Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel designed to create a space for women in Qatar to connect and grow, kicked off a new chapter on Tuesday at the hotel's Majlis tent. The gathering brought together 77 women for an evening of introspection, conversation, and empowerment during the holy month of Ramadan.
Under the leadership of new coach Elizabeth Wood, the Women’s Circle embarks on an exciting journey with a renewed focus on inclusivity, personal development, and community building. The evening’s theme, 'Introspection and Getting to Know Yourself as a Multifaceted Woman', encouraged self-reflection and personal growth. Attendees engaged in discussions, shared insights, and explored different aspects of their identities, all while enjoying a nourishing Suhour menu that sparked enriching conversations.
“My ultimate vision is to create a continuous safe space for women of all backgrounds and ages to come together, feel heard, and connect on a deeper level,” Elizabeth told The Peninsula. “Whether that’s for business, career, motherhood, or simply exploring the many facets of our identities, I want this to be a space where women can truly meet like-minded individuals who support each other.”
(From left) Fatma Kurt, Director of Marketing-Sheraton Grand Doha; Dima Shabbar, Founder of Dar Al Dima; Elizabeth Wood, Women's Circle Coach and Founder of Inspire Me LLC; and Nada Muniz Founder of Pink Cloud during the Women's Circle event on March 11, 2025.
Elizabeth plans to build on the Circle’s legacy, expanding it into a community that fosters connection, learning, and networking. “This isn’t just about expanding numbers. It’s about expanding in quality,” she said. “We want to create focused connections where women can connect with others who share their interests whether that’s for mothers, entrepreneurs, or artists. Each woman can find her ‘tribe’ here.”
Inclusivity is at the heart of Elizabeth’s vision for the Women’s Circle, and it’s something she’s deeply passionate about. Having grown up as a "third-culture kid" with a diverse background, she understands the importance of creating a welcoming space for women of all cultures, religions, and experiences. “Inclusivity is in my blood,” Elizabeth explained. “I want every woman to feel comfortable and valued, no matter where they come from. By being authentic, I hope to create a space where others feel safe to be vulnerable and open.”
Claudia Rodriguez, one of the attendees, shared her thoughts on the event: “It was incredible to connect with so many strong, like-minded individuals, sparking new friendships and meaningful conversations. The event was not only a fantastic networking opportunity but also deeply eye-opening, introspective, and informative. I left feeling empowered and motivated and definitely looking forward to attending many more events like this.”
Justyna Stanuliene, another attendee, told The Peninsula: "As a mom of an infant, I'm motivated to connect with other new moms who are in the same situation. I also attended Women's Circle twice before becoming a mom, and it was interesting to return after such a long time. I was happy to see so many beautiful, strong, and amazing women, all looking to uplift one another, share fresh ideas, and offer support. It’s an incredible experience to be among women who are non-judgmental and make you feel empowered."
For Elizabeth, her role is not just to teach or lead but to act as a catalyst for women’s transformation. “My work is about helping women become upgraded versions of themselves,” she said. “It’s not about changing who they are but about empowering them to live their truth, pursue their purpose, and ripple that positivity into their communities.”
She also spoke about the common challenges women face today, particularly the difficulty of balancing multiple roles. “Women are often juggling so many responsibilities, and it takes a lot of mental and emotional energy. One of the main struggles is learning how to prioritize and set healthy boundaries. This is something we’ll address in future gatherings," she told The Peninsula.
Women's Circle gathering will be once every two months, according to Elizabeth. She plans to explore various themes focused on mental health, work-life balance, and personal growth. “The important part is that women in Qatar have a safe space where they can connect with others who share their struggles, dreams, and goals,” she said. “This isn’t about being exclusive; it’s about creating a hub for inclusivity where every woman can find her place and the freedom to branch out into different settings as they choose.”
