The State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) has officially launched its first-ever professional development initiative, the "Investing in Our Future" program, dedicated to fostering the professional and personal growth of female university students aiming to build successful careers in the investment field.

The two-month program targets senior female students aspiring to specialize in investment, aiming to enhance their professional competencies, guide their career development, and prepare them thoroughly for their future professional journeys. Following a competitive selection process involving interviews, 8 out of 45 applicants who best aligned with the program’s values and objectives were selected. Throughout the program, participants will regularly interact with leading industry experts, gain practical knowledge through direct participation in real-world investment processes, and receive mentoring support.

During the opening ceremony, SOFAZ representatives provided informative presentations highlighting the Fund's mission, strategic goals, key activities, and major national projects it finances. Additionally, participants received comprehensive insights into the mentoring program, learning about its structure, benefits, and the significant role mentor interactions play in their professional growth.

The event concluded with an engaging panel discussion titled "Leading by Example – Inspiring Journeys of Women at SOFAZ". Moderated by Ulviyya Mehraliyeva, Head of SOFAZ’s Strategic Communication Division, the panel featured insightful contributions from Nigar Azizova, Portfolio Manager at the Investment Department, and Gunel Musayeva, Senior Analyst at the Real Estate Division. Panelists shared valuable experiences, personal challenges, and key factors behind their career achievements, further motivating the students to pursue their professional ambitions with confidence.