Voices for Change: A Spotlight on Wellbeing – Donya Fredj’s Journey to G42

In this inspiring episode of Voices for Change, Justin Farrance travels to Abu Dhabi to sit down with Donya Fredj, Deputy General Counsel at G42, one of the UAE’s leading AI and cloud computing companies. From overcoming personal and professional setbacks—including the loss of a training contract due to a law firm’s bankruptcy—to earning a place at Cambridge University and rising to a senior legal leadership role, Donya’s story is one of resilience, grit, and unwavering optimism.  Donya opens up about the importance of prioritising wellbeing in high-performance environments, especially within the fast-paced tech and legal sectors. She shares how her personal values shape her leadership style and her approach to inclusion in the Middle East.   The conversation also explores how legal departments can better collaborate with panel law firms, and what truly matters when selecting external counsel. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a legal leader who is redefining success through authenticity, empathy, and purpose.  What does it take to lead with wellbeing at the core? How can legal professionals build inclusive cultures in regions with evolving DE&I landscapes? And what lessons can we learn from Donya’s journey to help shape our own?   Tune in to hear how Donya and Justin unpack these questions and more, in a conversation that’s as practical as it is powerful.  Voices for Change is a podcast series spotlighting personal stories, leadership journeys, and the power of inclusive thinking in business. Through candid conversations with colleagues, clients, and thought leaders, the series explores how diverse perspectives drive responsible decision-making, wellbeing, and long-term success. Designed for leaders committed to building inclusive workplaces, each episode offers inspiration and practical insights for shaping a more equitable future.  Related content  Inclusion at A&O Shearman – Strategic priorities and initiatives around DE&I Voices for Change Podcast Archive – Browse other episodes featuring inclusive leaders