My career has been shaped by curiosity about how technology, media, and human behaviour intersect. I began my professional journey in strategy consulting before moving into the technology sector with roles at Google and Microsoft, where I had the opportunity to work across multiple markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. These years taught me how to scale businesses in complex environments and how digital platforms can fundamentally transform industries. 

A defining milestone came when I joined MultiChoice as Chief Marketing Officer for Showmax. At the time, streaming in Africa was still growing and I was in a great position to help define the ecosystem – from partnerships, data and pricing, to go-to-market strategies that resonated with local audiences. The experience reinforced my belief that innovation often happens at the intersection of global technology and local insight.

Today, I lead MBC Shahid at MBC Group, the largest media company in the Middle East and North Africa. In this role I oversee the growth of the region’s leading streaming platform, focusing on scaling subscription and advertising models, expanding partnerships, and building sustainable, profitable digital businesses. I was also part of the core leadership team that helped deliver MBC’s successful IPO on the Saudi Stock Exchange, an important moment not just for the company but for the regional media industry. 

Across these roles, what has defined my journey is the opportunity to build – high performing teams, amazing platforms, and new commercial models – in markets that are evolving rapidly.

For me, “Give to Gain” reflects the idea that meaningful success is rarely achieved alone. The greatest opportunities in my career have come from environments where people believed in a common goal and invested in one another’s growth.

Throughout my career, I have benefited from mentors who were generous with their time, advice, and trust. Their willingness to share practical knowledge shaped my development and helped me navigate some of the most challenging decisions in my career.

As a result, I try to lead with the same philosophy. Whether mentoring younger colleagues, supporting industry initiatives that promote inclusion, or creating opportunities for others to grow, I believe that investing in people ultimately strengthens both organisations and communities.

“Giving” in this sense is not just about mentorship and leadership. It is about sharing perspective, creating space for others to lead, and contributing to the industry in ways that extend beyond individual roles.

The values that guide my leadership are curiosity, empathy, and accountability.

Curiosity has always been central to my approach. The industries I work in – technology and media – evolve quickly, and leaders need to constantly learn, question assumptions, and remain open to new ideas. Curiosity has always allowed me to see opportunities where others see uncertainty or showstoppers.

Empathy is equally important. Leadership is ultimately about people. Whether building teams across continents or navigating complex organisational dynamics, I believe the most effective leaders combine ambition with genuine care for the individuals around them. High-performing teams are not built through pressure alone, but through trust, shared purpose, and the belief that everyone’s contribution matters.

Finally, accountability. Strategy and vision are important, but they only matter if they translate into results. I have always believed that leaders must be willing to take ownership of outcomes – both successes and failures – and create environments where teams can execute with clarity and confidence. Leading by example, taking calculated risks and consistently delivering high quality work are all levers that I use to drive my own and my team’s accountability.

My advice to the next generation of women in media and technology is threefold.

First, do not limit yourself to traditional career paths. That was true before but some of the most exciting opportunities today sit at the intersection of industries – technology, content, data, and commerce. Being comfortable navigating multiple disciplines will be a powerful advantage. I am a good example of that!

Second, build confidence in your perspective and in your ability to share it. Diverse viewpoints are critical in shaping products and organisations that serve global audiences. Your voice matters, particularly in industries that are still evolving; don’t be shy to speak up.

Finally, invest in relationships. Careers are built not only on individual capability but also on the networks of people who support, challenge, and inspire you along the way.

If there is one lesson I have learned in my career, it is that leadership is not about fitting a predetermined mould. It is about bringing your full perspective and experience to the table and using it to create opportunities for others.