Vera Futorjanski: Architect of Global Innovation Ecosystems

Architect of the MENA Venture Ecosystem: A Profile of Amal Dokhan

In this episode of Women of MENA, we profile Amal Dokhan, a powerhouse who has spent more than a decade as an entrepreneurship advocate, venture capitalist, and ecosystem builder in the region. We explore her current role as Managing Partner at 500 Global, where she leads the Sanabil 500 MENA seed accelerator fund, focusing on high-impact early-stage tech startups. The episode traces her journey through the pillars of Saudi Arabia's innovation landscape, from her time at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) managing the TAQADAM accelerator to her leadership as Director of the BABSON GLOBAL Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership. We also discuss her strategic influence on government initiatives through Monshaat and the Ministry of Health’s Vision Realization Office. Recognized by Forbes as one of the "Top 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen" in both 2023 and 2024, Dokhan’s reach extends across the Middle East through her board positions at the Middle East Venture Capital Association and the Saudi Venture Capital and Private Equity Association. Join us as we break down the career of a Kauffman Fellow who has not only invested in the future of MENA tech but has actively designed the frameworks that allow it to flourish.

Spotlight: Eng. Rana Algowaiz – Driving Innovation and Strategic Partnerships in Saudi Logistics

In this episode of Women of MENA — Spotlights, we profile Eng. Rana Algowaiz, a leader at the intersection of public-private collaboration and industrial growth. Currently serving as the Executive Director of Business Development and Partnership at Saudia Cargo, Rana has dedicated her career to opening markets and turning strategic ideas into tangible outcomes through ecosystem leadership. Her professional journey reflects a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic management, beginning with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Master’s in Manufacturing Systems Engineering. We trace her career path through influential roles at the Ministry of Commerce, the Strategic Management Office (SMO-CEDA), and her current contributions as a Board Member for the Logistics Partnership Council with the Private Sector. Join us as we explore how her commitment to growth, innovation, and "the right people coming together around the right idea" is helping shape the future of the logistics sector in Saudi Arabia.

Women of MENA Spotlights: Haneen Al-Saleh

This episode presents a professional profile of Haneen Al-Saleh, the Managing Director at Bosch KSA RHQ. We examine her career trajectory within the energy and industrial sectors, highlighting her leadership in power generation, operations management, and supply chain management. The spotlight traces Al-Saleh’s journey from her early roles as a mechanical design engineer and building services engineering associate to her significant tenure at GE Power, where she served as the Global Project Execution Operation & Intervention Leader. With a specialized academic background featuring a Master’s Degree in Energy Engineering and Carbon Management from Heriot-Watt University, she brings a deep technical and strategic perspective to her current executive role leading Bosch's regional headquarters in Riyadh. This narration focuses on her professional milestones and her role in shaping industrial operations across the Middle East.

Noor Sweid: The Visionary Architect of MENA’s Venture Capital Landscape

In this profile episode of Women of MENA, we explore the career of Noor Sweid, a trailblazer who has fundamentally reshaped the Middle East’s entrepreneurial and financial ecosystems. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures and the Founding Chairwoman of the Middle East Venture Capital Association, Noor stands at the forefront of the region’s venture capital evolution. We trace her professional journey, from her early success managing the US$ 1 billion IPO of Depa Ltd—a landmark event as the first private UAE company to list on NASDAQ Dubai—to her diverse entrepreneurial ventures, including the founding of ZenYoga. Beyond her investment leadership, we examine her vast influence as a board member for transformative organizations such as Clue, TechWadi, and Education For Employment (EFE), highlighting her commitment to female health, regional tech growth, and youth job placement. Join us as we profile a leader recognized by the Forum of Young Global Leaders and the Aspen Institute, whose work continues to bridge the gap between global innovation and Middle Eastern talent.

Deemah AlYahya: Architect of Global Tech Diplomacy

In this spotlight, we profile Deemah AlYahya, the founding Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) and a prominent tech diplomat. Over a twenty-year career spanning leadership roles at Microsoft, the Misk Foundation, and the Saudi National Digital Transformation Unit, AlYahya has emerged as a fervent champion for digital inclusion and transformation. This episode explores her work in fostering global multi-stakeholder cooperation to advance an inclusive and sustainable digital economy. We also examine her dedication to empowering female entrepreneurs through her founding of WomenSpark, the first Saudi female angel investment group, which has supported over 26,000 women. Join us as we trace AlYahya’s mission to connect individuals and nations with the resources and skills needed to prosper in the digital age.