Celebrating Influential Arab Women in Technology and Business

In recent years, Arab women have increasingly emerged as leaders in sectors traditionally dominated by men, particularly in technology and business. This International Women’s Day, we applaud the contributions of four remarkable women who are not only breaking barriers but are also driving economic and technological progress across the region.

Leila Serhan: Pioneering Digital Payment Solutions

Leila Serhan, a Lebanese national, serves as the Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for Visa Inc., where she oversees operations in North Africa, the Levant, and Pakistan (NALP). With over 20 years of experience, including a significant tenure at Microsoft, Serhan has played a crucial role in expanding Visa’s presence in emerging markets.

Under her guidance, Visa launched a fintech acceleration program in Africa aimed at nurturing local startups, alongside key initiatives that enhance digital payment solutions in countries like Pakistan. These efforts have significantly contributed to economic growth in the region.

Bodour bint Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi: Championing Cultural and Technological Innovation

Bodour Al Qasimi represents a beacon of leadership in the United Arab Emirates, holding multiple high-profile roles including President of the Sharjah Book Authority, the University of Sharjah, and the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park. Her initiatives have been instrumental in transforming Sharjah into a vibrant hub for cultural and technological advancement.

Al Qasimi’s work emphasizes the integration of research and development with practical applications, fostering collaborations between academia and industry to drive innovation in various fields.

Ghada Amer: Bridging the Gender Gap in STEM

Ghada Amer, an Egyptian academic, currently holds the position of Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at October 6 University. She made history as the first Egyptian woman to join the Global Engineering Deans Council (GEDC).

Beyond her administrative duties, Amer is actively engaged in empowering women in science and technology, working to close the gender gap in STEM fields. Her various initiatives create supportive environments for female students and professionals, promoting their involvement in technological advancements.

Jalila Mezni: A Leader in Consumer Goods

Jalila Mezni, a Tunisian entrepreneur, co-founded the SAH Group (Société d’Articles Hygieniques) in 1994, where she has played a pivotal role in its success. After starting her career in banking, Mezni transitioned to the consumer goods sector, effectively leading SAH Group to become a significant player in the industry.

The group has established subsidiaries in multiple countries, including Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and France, with notable products like Azur Détergent and Azur Papier. As of the first half of 2023, the SAH Group reported assets of $381.4 million and revenues of $138.5 million, highlighting its robust market presence. Mezni has also been recognized by Forbes as one of the world’s most powerful businesswomen.

Conclusion

These four exceptional Arab women exemplify leadership, innovation, and the transformative role of women in today’s economic landscape. Their contributions not only challenge gender norms but also inspire future generations to pursue careers in technology and business.