Deputy Director General Rana Waheed brings more than 13 years of expertise to her role as Head of International Relations at the Maldives Police Service, where she has been instrumental in fostering and strengthening international partnerships with law enforcement agencies worldwide. In addition to her international engagement, Rana serves as the Program Officer for the Maldives Women in Policing Network, established in 2020 with a focus on promoting gender equality and empowering women within the law enforcement sector. Through this initiative, she addresses gender disparities, provides support and resources for women in law enforcement, and advocates for policies that foster gender inclusivity and diversity within the police force. Rana holds a bachelor's degree in political science and international relations, complemented by diplomas in business management and project management and is currently pursuing a master's in communication. She is committed to advancing gender equality and promoting effective communication strategies within law enforcement and beyond. 

IVLP Impact Award Project: The Butterfly Effect: TOT for Women Mentors    

The project will empower women in security, and law enforcement through an innovative Train the Trainer program. Comprehensive resource materials and training modules will be created to cultivate leadership capabilities and enable participants to spearhead initiatives within their respective organizations. The project will foster a transformative shift, amplifying the presence and impact of women in leadership roles within these critical sectors. 

So far, Rana has created and distributed a training needs assessment survey and secured volunteer trainers for a three-day session. The session, scheduled for the end of October, will bring together women in the security sector to encourage solidarity, resource sharing, and mentorship, ultimately creating a more positive environment for women in the policing and security sector. Rana reflected that so far, the project “has been a rewarding journey of growth and learning, both for myself and the participants involved. One aspect I would like to highlight is the overwhelming positive response from the women in law enforcement who are eager to develop their leadership and mentorship skills. This enthusiasm has reaffirmed the importance of such initiatives, and I am confident that the training will create lasting change within the community.”

“The IVLP Impact Awards offer not just recognition but a platform to amplify the transformative work inspired by this remarkable experience. The main goal of this project is to empower women in security and law enforcement sectors to lead with confidence, competence, and compassion. By equipping them with the necessary skills and resources, we aim to ignite a ripple effect of positive change, fostering inclusive leadership and advancing gender equality within our communities and beyond.” - Rana Waheed 

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Rana participated in the IVLP Project Women Leaders - Promoting Peace and Security for the Indo-Pacific and Central Asia, organized by the U.S. Department of State and World Learning, in partnership with Cleveland Council on World Affairs, Global Ties Akron, International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles, and WorldChicago.  

Rana’s exchange experience led to the development of her project: "Throughout my participation in the IVLP Women, Peace, and Security program, I had the privilege of engaging with remarkable individuals and esteemed partner institutions both within the U.S. government and NGOs. Their expertise and resources present invaluable opportunities to bolster such an endeavor.”  

“Engaging with diverse cultures and perspectives from across the world has broadened my horizons and inspired a global perspective on addressing local challenges. Collaborating with passionate individuals worldwide has ignited my drive to champion positive change in my community and beyond. As I look ahead, I am filled with gratitude for the invaluable connections and anticipation to leverage them in continuing my journey as a female leader.” - Rana Waheed 

U.S. Communities Visited

Los Angeles, CA; Washington, DC; Chicago, IL; Akron, OH; Cleveland, OH 

Country: Maldives

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