Women of MENA — Spotlights

In this spotlight, we profile Lamia Hanafi, a leading figure in innovation diplomacy and the Founder and CEO of Nest Accelerator. Headquartered in Paris and Riyadh, her work focuses on building transcontinental bridges between startup ecosystems in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.The episode explores Hanafi’s extensive leadership in the global entrepreneurial landscape, including her tenure as the Head of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at UM6P France, where she spearheaded NextAfrica—the first Pan-African accelerator program established at Station F. We also highlight her role as the President Global Chair for the Startup Ecosystem at the G100 Women Economic Forum, where she advocates for innovation-driven entrepreneurship and supports women founders on a global scale. From her beginnings as the Co-founder of the award-winning PropTech startup Lok-iz to her current mission of empowering emerging markets, Hanafi’s career is defined by a commitment to cross-border collaboration and impactful innovation.

In this episode of Women of MENA, we take an in-depth look at the career of Ghada Rashwan, a "path maker" and "fiercely driven" leader who is at the center of Saudi Arabia’s evolving business ecosystem. Although she isn't joining us today, her extensive portfolio speaks for itself—from her 15-year tenure in the financial and real estate sectors to her current roles as a global strategist.We explore Rashwan’s journey as the Founder and CEO of SustAInovate.Co.SA and her pivotal work as the Country Chair for G100: Mission Million, where she represents Saudi Arabia on a global platform to foster gender equity and impactful collaboration.Key highlights of this profile include:The Architect of Transformation: How her background at Bank Aljazira and Emaar, The Economic City shaped her expertise in identifying untapped market opportunities and driving millions in revenue.A Global Liaison: Her role as the Core Strategic Partner and Head of Arab Regional Engagement for the International Women Day Conference (IWDC) and the Global Women Development Network (GWDN).Commitment to the Future: Her active involvement in the Sustainability Professionals of Saudi Arabia (SPSA) and the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF), highlighting her dedication to digital transformation and economic progress.Join us for this comprehensive profile on a visionary leader who is bridging the gap between traditional industry and future-forward innovation in the MENA region.

This episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights profiles Rim Mathlouthi, a seasoned executive with a prolific career in private investment funds, capital raising, and international business strategy. With over 13 years of experience as a Member of the Board of Advisors for Licorne Gulf Holding, Mathlouthi has navigated complex markets across Qatar, Bahrain, Geneva, and Saudi Arabia.We examine her diverse professional footprint, from her role as Associate Founder of ALWEKA INTERNATIONAL DMCC in Dubai to her work as a private wealth manager overseeing assets for ultra-high-net-worth individuals in global financial hubs like London, Zurich, and Singapore. The profile also covers her strategic contributions to the Fintech sector in North Africa and her background in luxury operational strategy, illustrating a career defined by versatility and high-level negotiations in the global marketplace.

This episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights profiles Rawan Almogbil, a Riyadh-based serial tech entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of Lenks.ai. Transitioning from a successful career in law, Almogbil has dedicated her expertise to the intersection of artificial intelligence, immersive technology, and education. We explore her professional evolution from practicing law in the UAE and Kuwait to founding InnovationX and Lenks.ai—ventures recognized by Misk and the Atlantic Council for their potential to transform global collaboration. This spotlight highlights her commitment to innovation, strategic leadership, and her mission to empower others to lead with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights, we profile Walaa Alattas, a visionary brand strategist and the founder of Project32 Creative Studio. With over 15 years of experience in brand transformation, Alattas has become a pivotal figure in the Middle Eastern design landscape, advising boards and government leaders on cultural influence and global positioning.We examine her extensive portfolio, which includes delivering 15.5 billion digital interactions for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and leading successful global campaigns for brands such as Godiva. The episode also highlights her role in shaping Vision 2030 initiatives and her commitment to advancing design leadership through her work as a founding member of the Graphic Design Association and her pursuit of an Executive MBA for Design Leaders. This spotlight explores how Alattas bridges the gap between creative execution and business strategy to build lasting cultural impact.

In this spotlight, we profile Dr. Hamida Ouled Slimane, an internationally renowned Clinical and Forensic Neuroscientist and World Scientific Diplomat. We explore her extensive leadership across global institutions, including her roles as a High-Level Expert for the European Commission, an accredited expert at the United Nations, and the International Vice President of PSAF.The episode highlights Dr. Slimane’s pioneering research in "Gestational Neurobiology," which investigates the profound impact of prenatal trauma on human development. We also examine her mission as the CEO of Gaudium, where she integrates brain science with "New Integrative Medicine" to restore dignity to the biological and biographical history of every individual. Join us for a look at a career dedicated to protecting human rights through the intersection of neuroscience, law, and international cooperation.

In this spotlight, we profile Dina Sam’an, a pioneering Jordanian entrepreneur and the Founder and Managing Director of CoinMENA. As one of the first to provide digital asset access in the Middle East and North Africa, Sam'an led CoinMENA to become a premier regulated platform with over 1.5 million users and a total trading volume exceeding $5 billion.This episode explores her role in a landmark moment for the regional ecosystem: the $240 million acquisition of CoinMENA by Paribu in 2025, marking the largest fintech transaction of its kind in the Middle East and Turkey. Beyond her business achievements, we highlight Sam’an’s commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders through her service on the boards of Princess Sumaya University for Technology and Women in Tech Bahrain, as well as her role as an ambassador for Women Changing the World. Join us as we examine the career of a leader dedicated to building an inclusive and enduring digital economy in the MENA region.

In this spotlight episode, we explore the professional journey of Nora Almalik, a product leader based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a decade of experience in innovation, digital transformation, and design-driven strategy. Currently serving as a Digital Product Manager at the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, Nora has dedicated her career to guiding high-impact ideas from concept to launch.This profile examines Nora’s unique approach to leadership, which is rooted in a foundational background in Design and Visual Communications from the American University of Sharjah. We follow her career path through strategic roles at EY and the KAFD Development & Management Company, highlighting her ability to bring clarity, purpose, and empathy to complex digital environments.The episode also looks at Nora’s commitment to holistic growth as she pursues a Master’s degree in Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University. From her success at the Global AI Summit’s AI Artathon to her mastery of customer experience design, we profile a leader who is effectively bridging the gap between technology and human-centric design to move businesses forward in the MENA region.

In this episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights, we explore the professional journey of Dr. Raihan Jumah, the Group CEO of Kingdom International Real Estate.Dr. Jumah’s career is defined by a unique blend of executive leadership and deep academic expertise. Holding a PhD in Management Leadership and Organisational Behaviour from Henley Business School, her research has focused on women’s economic opportunities in the 21st century, specifically analyzing female labor force participation.The episode traces her trajectory from her foundational experience as a purchasing assistant at Aramco in Saudi Arabia to her roles in international distribution and her current position leading a global real estate group. We also highlight her contributions to academia as a visiting lecturer and her commitment to professional development and change management. Join us as we spotlight a leader shaping both the business landscape and the study of organizational leadership across the Middle East and the United Kingdom.

In this episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights, we explore the journey of Maha Shirah, a serial entrepreneur, venture builder, and dedicated advocate for women’s economic empowerment in Saudi Arabia. As the founder and CEO of SHEWORKS, Shirah established the first licensed business hub for women created and managed by women, providing a critical ecosystem for female startups to achieve their professional goals through advisory and consultancy.With an MBA in Finance and over 15 years of diverse experience, Shirah’s mission is centered on preparing Saudi women for the nation’s Vision 2030 transition. Her leadership extends to influential board positions, including the Business Women Committee at the Riyadh Chamber and the National Women Council. In addition to her corporate and consultancy work, Shirah is a professional photographer and creative artist, viewing entrepreneurship itself as a form of art. This spotlight examines her multifaceted career as a bridge-builder for the next generation of Saudi business leaders.

This episode features Sofia Ikhlef, the Founder and CEO of Neia Solutions and General Manager of SYMO Bahrain, who is driving digital transformation across the MENA region. Sofia focuses on empowering local artisans and designers by facilitating their transition into the Web3 economy, leveraging decentralized technologies to enhance transparency and business ownership. Recognized as a global finalist for the Women in Web3 Award and an Advisory Board Member for Women in Tech® Bahrain, she shares her vision for a digital ecosystem that fosters sustainable growth and long-term success for regional businesses.

In this spotlight, we explore the career of Eithne Treanor, a Dubai-based communications expert, media trainer, and seasoned international business journalist. As the Managing Director of E Treanor Media and a Special Correspondent for CNBC in the Middle East, Eithne has spent over two decades shaping the way industry leaders and high-level executives engage with global audiences.Drawing on her extensive background with major networks including the BBC, Bloomberg, and Sky News, Eithne has moderated more than 500 international events and serves as a key moderator for OPEC. This episode highlights her mission to help leaders "Own the Space," providing them with the tools to deliver impactful presentations, succeed in high-stakes pitches, and communicate with authority across the media and energy sectors.

This episode features Zainab Al Bacha, a results-driven entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Ajeer Pay based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With over 13 years of expertise in leadership and operational excellence, Zainab has built a distinguished career centered on Quality, Health, Safety, and Environmental (QHSE) practices and strategic governance.The spotlight explores her professional journey, highlighting her roles in optimizing facility operations, implementing impactful energy-saving initiatives, and serving as a governance consultant for AlNassr Football Club. Drawing on her background in finance and investment and her certifications as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Manager of Quality (CMQ/OE), the episode illustrates how Zainab fosters a culture of safety and sustainability while driving measurable value for organizations in the region.

This spotlight episode features Zoe Upson, a Dubai-based Commercial Futurist and Advisor who has been ranked as the No. 1 Woman in Shipping. The episode explores Upson’s mission to redefine leadership in global maritime trade, emphasizing that the industry's true competitive advantage lies in people and talent strategy rather than technology alone. Listeners will learn about her work as the Director of FACT (Freight and Commodity Talent Ltd) and the founder of WOMEN TOGETHER, a community dedicated to fostering connection and growth for women across the shipping and commodities sectors.

This episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights highlights the career of Arwa Alkhayyal, a pioneering Saudi entrepreneur and strategic leader with over 11 years of experience in the entertainment, tourism, and cultural sectors. As the founder of 24 Event, Alkhayyal has led the design and execution of high-profile national projects, ranging from large-scale conferences to initiatives under royal patronage.The spotlight explores her extensive impact on Saudi Arabia’s evolving ecosystem through her advisory roles for BibanGlobal and her active participation in national committees, including the Entertainment National Executive Committee for the Council of Saudi Chambers and the Tourism Committee at Asharqia Chamber. With an educational background in accounting and specialized leadership training from Cornell University’s Entertainment Leadership Program, Alkhayyal bridges the gap between business strategy and audience engagement. Discover how her work in experience design and public-private collaboration is helping to shape the future of the Kingdom's entertainment and tourism industries.

In this episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights, we highlight the professional journey of Raneem Zaarour, a dedicated leader in the United Arab Emirates' insurance industry. Currently serving as Unit Sales Manager at Takaful Emarat-Insurance (P.S.C), Raneem has built a robust career over more than six years, progressing from a Senior Officer in direct sales to her current leadership role in Abu Dhabi.The episode explores how her academic background in economics, accounting, and finance from Damascus University provided the foundation for her expertise in banking and customer service. We delve into her professional philosophy of driving organizational profitability through vision and stability, illustrating the impact of her leadership within a challenging corporate environment. Join us for a spotlight on a professional shaping the future of the regional insurance landscape.

In this episode of the Women of MENA podcast, we profile Abeer Khoja, a strategic leader in Riyadh who is redefining the intersection of human resources and corporate identity. With a career spanning over ten years, Khoja has transitioned from foundational roles in recruitment at Banque Saudi Fransi to becoming a visionary in internal communications and employee experience.We examine her current role as the Director of National Capacity Building at the Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission (NRRC), where she oversees efforts to connect people with a sense of purpose. The episode explores Khoja’s professional philosophy—the belief that workplaces should not just "operate" but thrive—and how she utilizes visual storytelling and strategic engagement campaigns to empower individuals. From her MBA at Alfaisal University to her leadership at King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, we trace the trajectory of a leader dedicated to building national-scale capacity and transformative workplace cultures in Saudi Arabia.

In this spotlight, we profile Rana Alnasir-Boulos, a distinguished entrepreneur and the Chairperson of the Global Women Forum (GWF). A recipient of the World Woman Leader AWARD, Rana has established herself as a pivotal figure in empowering women and youth through her work as a public speaker and intercultural trainer.Her journey began as a student entrepreneur, later leading to a prominent role as Director of International Business Development at the Euro Institute for Information and Technology Transfer (EITEP), where she served for over 12 years. Today, she focuses on uniting leaders across the GCC, MENA, and North Africa to advance innovation in energy and infrastructure.This profile explores Rana's dedication to driving diversity in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as AI, STEM, and energy. Through the Global Women Forum, she actively builds cultural and economic bridges between businesswomen in Europe and the Arab region, fostering a networking platform centered on sustainability and mentorship. Fluent in German, French, English, and Arabic, Rana uses her expertise in intercultural communication to create global opportunities and impactful leadership projects for women in all industries.

In this episode of the Women of MENA podcast, we profile Mirna Al Ali, a strategic leader based in Saudi Arabia with over a decade of experience across business development, strategic consulting, and human capability building. Her career is defined by a commitment to creating impact through national transformation projects and government initiatives that empower people and strengthen organizational frameworks.We explore Mirna's diverse professional trajectory, which includes significant roles such as Human Resources Development Manager for the U.S. Department of State and Operational Support Specialist for the U.S. Army. Her leadership extends into the sports sector, where she served as the Board Secretary for the Saudi Winter Sports Federation, and into executive management as the former Head of Executive Support Services at Maximus KSA. Currently, she serves as the Director of Marketing and Business Development at Rasi Consulting.Mirna is a vocal advocate for empowering women leaders and entrepreneurs, believing that growth occurs when purpose meets clarity. Her influence in the region is further established through her roles as the Founder of the HerStory Talk Show and a member of influential networks like WomenSpark and PLAYBOOK. Recognized as a Top Arab Creator on LinkedIn, she utilizes storytelling to inspire change and align innovation with measurable value.Key areas covered in this profile include:• Her expertise in identifying opportunities within complexity to drive organizational performance.• A look at her background in international diplomacy and defense and how it transitioned into strategic growth.• Her dedication to empowerment and impact initiatives, earning her a Community Impact Award.• The role of storytelling and organizational culture in achieving sustainable, value-driven growth.Join us as we examine the career of a leader who is at the forefront of aligning strategy with human potential across the MENA region.

In this profile episode, we examine the professional journey and strategic impact of Nada Kabbani, the Director of Data Intelligence at D360 Bank, one of Saudi Arabia’s pioneering digital banks. With more than 15 years of experience across the banking and financial services sector, Nada has become a recognized leader in bridging technical data capabilities with high-level strategic decision-making.We track her career from her foundational roles as a statistical analyst at NCB and an MIS officer at Bank Aljazira to her current leadership at the forefront of digital finance. This profile highlights her expertise in data governance, analytics, and digital transformation, as well as her commitment to treating data as a strategic asset to drive business growth and customer experience.Recognized by Women of MENA & KSA Global Leaders for her regional impact, Nada’s story is one of disciplined execution and governance-driven innovation. Join us as we explore how she continues to shape the future of data intelligence in the Kingdom.

In this episode, we explore the career and impact of Hebah Abbas, a trailblazing leader at the intersection of engineering, sustainability, and national development in Kuwait. With over two decades of experience, Abbas has become a central figure in reshaping how infrastructure and environmental stewardship coexist in the Arab region.We discuss her pivotal role as Chief Specialist Electrical Engineer at Kuwait’s Ministry of Education, where she drives the strategic integration of innovation and resilience into national education systems. Beyond her technical engineering work, the episode delves into her "nexus-based approach" as Chairwoman of the Sustainability Committee at the Kuwait Water Association. This strategy aligns water, infrastructure, and environmental systems through cross-sector collaboration to drive circular economy models and national water security.Key topics covered in this episode include:• National Infrastructure Strategy: How Abbas integrates "future-readiness" into the education system.• The Sustainability Nexus: Her work bridging policy, industry, and academia to promote environmental stewardship.• Global Advocacy: Her international footprint, including her contributions to the Arab Digital Roadmap 2025–2030 and her 2025 plenary address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit.• Leadership and Education: Her role on the Engineering Industrial Advisory Board at the Australian University and as the National Coordinator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).Join us as we analyze how this Syracuse University alumna leverages systems thinking and strategic partnerships with organizations like AmCham Kuwait and the World Association of PPP Professionals (WAPPP) to build a more sustainable future.Listen now to learn how Hebah Abbas is setting a new standard for technical expertise and societal purpose in the Middle East.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the career and leadership of Katie Purcer Golding, a figure recognized as one of the Forbes Middle East Top 10 Women in Marketing. With over 27 years of experience in senior marketing and commercial roles, including more than 17 years within the MENA region, Katie has established herself as an award-winning media leader who thrives in complex, highly competitive environments.We explore her extensive professional journey, which includes her current role as Director of Development Marketing at ALDAR and her tenure as the Chief Marketing Officer for Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG). Our discussion traces her impact across a wide range of global and regional powerhouses, from her time as the Marketing and Communications Director at Sky News Arabia to her work with major accounts like British Airways, BT, and the Saadiyat Island developments.Beyond the titles, we analyze Katie’s unique ability to translate insight into impact, aligning storytelling with commercial outcomes. We also look at her influence outside the boardroom as a Board Member of Rise ME and a mentor in the Abu Dhabi Emirate, where she focuses on supporting entrepreneurship and leadership development for the next generation. Join us as we discuss a leader who has shaped not just brands, but the very standards of leadership within the marketing and communications profession.

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary career of Dr. Carole Nakhle, a globally recognized energy economist who has spent nearly three decades shaping energy policy, governance, and market development worldwide. We examine how she has become a bridge between the corporate boardroom, government policy, and academia through her work as the Founder and CEO of Crystol Energy, a multi-award-winning advisory firm.We delve into her extensive influence as a strategic advisor to major energy companies, international organizations like the IMF and the World Bank, and various governments. Our discussion highlights her deep expertise in fiscal design and energy governance, particularly as showcased in her widely referenced books, Petroleum Taxation: Sharing the Wealth and Out of the Energy Labyrinth.The episode also focuses on Dr. Nakhle’s commitment to leadership and advocacy. We discuss her roles as the President of the Arab Energy Club and her long-standing position on the board of the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI). A significant portion of our profile is dedicated to her pioneering work in gender equity; in 2007, she founded Access for Women in Energy, the first group of its kind to support the development of women professionals in the global energy sector.Finally, we reflect on the numerous accolades she has received, including being named the Arab Women Entrepreneur in Energy for 2025 and receiving the Freedom of the City of London. Join us as we break down the insights and legacy of a leader who is truly a "voice for inclusion and innovation" in the global energy landscape.In this episode, we discuss:• Dr. Nakhle’s academic contributions as a lecturer at the University of Oxford and the University of Surrey.• Her impact on geopolitical intelligence and international relations through her work with the Geopolitical Intelligence Services.• The evolution of her career from a Special Parliamentary Advisor in the UK House of Lords to a world-renowned CEO.• Her role in driving global energy transitions through informed decision-making.