Interview

What’s something you’ve learned recently that changed the way you show up as a leader?

Communication. Always communication. I’ve seen it one too many times that people tend to focus on investing the majority of their learning time on what they’re not good at. And although that’s important, I believe it’s vital to focus on how to make our strengths even stronger. I’ve always considered communication one of my strengths and a key pillar in life and in business. But the deeper I go, the more I realize how much further I can push it. Two specific lessons stuck with me.

First: making sure your body language is communicating too. Especially on video. How you sit, how close you are to the camera, whether your hands are visible – it all can signal trust. Even simple things like waving your hand can subconsciously create openness and gain trust.

Second: to pause and breathe. I’m a fast speaker – even faster in Arabic! Learning to pause (and take a full breath in), has changed how listeners process my words and react to my data points and questions. Pausing for a breath is especially useful in difficult conversations. I had to deliver tough news on a call recently, and just starting with presence – and incorporating pauses – created safety for both of us and somehow encouraged the other person to pause and breathe with me. They felt calmer and the conversation went deeper.

A pause is small, but powerful.

Let’s go deeper. What’s one challenge that really shifted your career or leadership approach?

There was a moment – a longer one, really – when I was working with leadership that operated with a very directive style with heavy bias. It clashed completely with how I lead and how I thrive. I believe in seeing the potential in others, in keeping our emotional intelligence turned on when we lead. I lead with compassion, clarity, and presence. That style was actively discouraged.

I had to make a choice: do I adapt completely? Or stay true to what I know works? At this stage of my life, adaptability is in my back pocket, but authenticity is in the palm of my hand. I learnt to adapt where I can to navigate a challenging environment, but without compromising who I was. I at times changed how I communicated, switching from live feedback to written, for example. I stayed focused on results. I honored my commitment to coaching and developing my team so we can deliver results and make an impact. It was hard. It definitely was not the easiest or most joyful experience. But it helped me reflect on what environment, team, and culture I need to genuinely thrive and add great value. I literally created a checklist. It’s how I now decide what to embark on.

That experience didn’t just challenge me. It shaped me. It reminded me how important it is to build environments where people – especially women – don’t have to change themselves to lead.

And one more thing: find your own leadership style. Leadership isn’t a template. Your energy, your voice, your pace – makes you unique. There is no one like you, that’s your edge – use it!