Architecting the Human Layer: Dr. Husa Alangari and the Future of Saudi Arabia’s AI Economy

Architecting the Human Layer: Dr. Husa Alangari and the Future of Saudi Arabia’s AI Economy

In this episode of the Women of MENA spotlight, we explore the career and vision of Dr. Husa Alangari, a pivotal figure in Saudi Arabia’s educational and technological transformation. As the GM and CEO for KSA at Ultimate Learning Academy, a venture-backed regional edtech company, Dr. Alangari is at the forefront of building the "human layer" necessary to sustain the Kingdom’s rapid AI advancements. We dive into her professional philosophy—the belief that while technology is essential, countries truly run on the people capable of utilizing it. The episode profiles her extensive impact on Vision 2030, including her leadership in developing Saudi Arabia’s first national AI competency frameworks for educators and learners. We also discuss her influential roles as a Strategic Advisor at Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University and her work defining national e-learning standards for the Kingdom. Join us as we profile a leader who is not just implementing technology, but is architecting the talent, leadership, and governance frameworks that turn national ambition into lasting impact.

Spotlight: Rema Alyahya — Shaping the Venture Capital Ecosystem in Saudi Arabia

In this installment of Women of MENA — Spotlights, we profile Rema Alyahya, a leader in Saudi Arabia’s investment and startup landscape. Currently serving as Vice President at Merak Capital, Rema focuses on venture capital, portfolio management, and ecosystem enablement. Her career is rooted in a deep understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship, beginning with her studies at Northeastern University in Boston. During her time in the United States, she served as a Venture Coach for Northeastern’s IDEA accelerator and held marketing leadership roles at Wise Systems, a Boston-based B2B logistics startup that successfully raised a $50 million Series C. Returning to Riyadh, Rema held pivotal positions at the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), including serving as a VC at SRMG Ventures and leading strategic initiatives. Additionally, she has contributed to international relations as a member of the steering committee for the U.S. Embassy’s Cultural Exchange Program. This episode highlights Rema’s journey from the Boston startup hub to the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s venture capital sector.

Hanouf Bin Saeed: Bridging Policy and Private Sector Potential

In this spotlight, we profile Hanouf Bin Saeed, the Executive Director of Sector Advisory at the Saudi Investment Promotion Authority (SIPA), where she leads the identification and structuring of high-impact investment opportunities aligned with Vision 2030. With an 18-year career spanning Saudi Arabia’s most prominent financial institutions—including HSBC, Gulf International Bank, and Riyad Bank—Bin Saeed has built a career on the conviction that the right institutional frameworks are essential for moving capital and building economies. We examine her extensive background in fintech and venture investment, her leadership in real estate digitization, and her current mandate to position Saudi companies as credible partners in the global investment ecosystem. This episode highlights a professional journey defined by precision, trust, and a long-term view of the Kingdom’s economic architecture.

HRH Dr. Maha Al Saud: A Legacy of Medicine, Academia, and Global Leadership

In this spotlight, we profile Her Royal Highness Dr. Maha Al Saud, the Chief Executive Officer of the FII Institute. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years, Dr. Al Saud has built a professional legacy rooted in healthcare, international engagement, and institution-building. This episode explores her extensive journey, from her 31-year tenure as an Internal Medicine Consultant at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center to her pivotal role as Vice President of External Relations and Advancement at Alfaisal University. We examine how her leadership now guides the FII Institute in its mission to address global challenges through investment and innovation, aligning with the priorities of Saudi Vision 2030. Join us for a profile on a leader dedicated to advancing humanity through interdisciplinary collaboration and global leadership.

Mirvatte Mtanos: The Architect of Emotion and Human-Centered Design

In this spotlight, we profile Mirvatte Mtanos, a Lebanese interior architect, graphic designer, and entrepreneur who is redefining the creative landscape through her signature philosophy of “design with emotion”. Since 2013, Mtanos has led her firm, Mirvatte Architect & Design, focusing on the intersection of elegance, functionality, and deeply human-centered experiences. This episode explores her journey to becoming a recognized figure in international design and leadership circles. We examine how her work—featured in global publications such as Female Entrepreneurs Magazine and UAE Stories—emphasizes the power of creativity to transform life's "fractures" into healing spaces that speak and shine. Join us for a look at a visionary leader dedicated to shaping environments that resonate with the human spirit.