Celebrating a Historic Milestone in Rotary Club Casablanca
On July 16, 2026, a warm and inviting atmosphere enveloped the members of the Rotary Club Casablanca Doyen as they gathered for a reception hosted by the newly appointed President, Leila Chaoui. This event marked the inaugural statutory meeting for the year 2026-2027, themed "In Circle of Friendship." The occasion was particularly significant as it heralded Mrs. Chaoui's appointment as the 81st President of the Club, a groundbreaking moment since it is the first time a woman has held this position since the club's establishment in 1930.
This historic appointment underscores the growing role of women in Moroccan society and reflects the trust placed in Mrs. Chaoui to lead various projects and initiatives undertaken by this prestigious organization. The event commenced with a welcoming address from Mr. Youssef Harouchi, the Deputy Governor (ADG), who serves as a vital link between the district governor and a group of clubs. Following this, Mrs. Chaoui delivered an inspiring speech, expressing her heartfelt gratitude to all club members and paying special tribute to the late Mohamed Benmejdoub, a prominent figure within the club and a Past Rotary International Director, who served on Rotary International’s global board.
Commitment to Continuity and Family Values
In her address, Mrs. Chaoui emphasized the family-like camaraderie within the club and acknowledged her family members, including her daughter Ghizlaine, who was unable to attend due to business travel, her second daughter Sofia, a pharmacist and General Director of Versalya Pharmaceutical Laboratory, and her son Karim, the General Director of Iberma Pharmaceutical Laboratory and current President of the Berrechid Settat Region at the CGEM. Mrs. Chaoui articulated her deep attachment to the Rotary Club of Casablanca and committed to continuing the work initiated by Immediate Past President, Mr. Hassan Basri.
Mr. Basri, in turn, praised Mrs. Chaoui's undeniable qualities, affirming the unanimous decision of the club members in her selection. Outside of her association work, Mrs. Chaoui boasts over 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. In 1993, she co-founded Iberma Pharmaceutical Laboratory with her late husband, Mr. Abdelilah Lahlou, in partnership with the Spanish group ASAC. She currently serves as the President of the company, succeeding her husband. Additionally, she is the daughter of Mr. Omar Chaoui, the founder of AFRIC PHAR, another key player in the pharmaceutical industry, which was sold to the Anas Sefrioui Group in January 2025.
As reported by leseco.ma.
