Women are making their mark on the business world, and it’s about time. In 2024, we’re seeing more female leaders stepping into powerful roles, changing the game, and pushing industries forward. These top 10 female leaders are leading with a mix of determination, vision, and authenticity—and they’re not just transforming their companies; they’re transforming the way we think about leadership itself. Let’s talk about the female leaders who are driving change in their industries below!
Top 10 Female Leaders Redefining Business
Below are the top 10 female leaders who are breaking barriers and bringing on their innovative ideas to the table! Let’s learn about their journeys.
1. Kanika Mittal | Shaping the Future of Fintech and Payments
Kanika Mittal is a trailblazer in the Fintech and payments industry, with nearly two decades of experience driving digital transformation across Asia-Pacific. With a deep understanding of technology, AI, and emerging payment solutions, Kanika has been a key force behind the success of global companies and startups alike. As the former Head of Fintech & Payments for Tabsquare, a Delivery Hero company, she worked extensively with both enterprise merchants and small businesses in the F&B industry, helping them streamline payment solutions and enhance customer experience.
Before joining Tabsquare, Kanika held senior leadership roles across multiple major players in the Fintech space, including as Head of Commercial for APAC at Boku Inc., where she worked with global big tech giants. Her work has consistently focused on empowering underserved communities and enabling cashless solutions that cater to diverse payment preferences. At Meniga, an AI-based digital banking company, Kanika led efforts to help retail banks improve customer engagement and drive innovation through data-driven insights.
With a degree in Computer Engineering and an MBA from Indiana University, Kanika brings both technical and business acumen to her roles. Her commitment to using financial technology for social good is evident in her efforts to provide accessibility to underserved markets and deliver hyper-personalized solutions for consumers. From cross-border payments to local payment methods and emerging mobile wallets, her work spans a wide range of innovations aimed at making financial services more inclusive.
Beyond her impressive career, Kanika is also a thought leader and a sought-after speaker in the Fintech space. She has presented at major events like the Singapore Fintech Festival and the Nordic Innovation House Banking Panel, where she shared her insights on topics ranging from AI and cashless payments to sustainable banking and the future of digital banking in Asia. Her ability to engage with over 65 nationalities throughout her career underscores her global perspective and deep understanding of diverse consumer needs.
Kanika’s impact on the industry extends beyond innovation—she’s helping to shape a more accessible, customer-centric future for financial services. As she continues to push the boundaries of technology and finance, Kanika Mittal remains a leader to watch in 2024 and beyond.
2. Sana Guetari Trabelsi | Co-Founder of EduTainment Solutions and Advocate for Holistic Education
Sana Guetari Trabelsi’s entrepreneurial journey stems from a deep passion for education and community well-being. Born and raised in Tunisia, Sana balances her role as a business leader with being a wife and a proud mother of two daughters. Armed with a master’s degree in Food Quality Control, Sana’s professional career began with managing Camali Psychiatric Clinic, where she developed a profound understanding of mental health and its impact on families and communities. However, it was her role as President of the Parents’ Association at LFI de l’AFLEC that illuminated a growing need within educational institutions—support for schools and parent associations in organizing events without overwhelming their resources.
Recognizing this gap, Sana co-founded EduTainment Solutions, a company dedicated to blending education and entertainment to create enriching experiences for schools. EduTainment Solutions offers a wide range of services, including event management, photography, and yearbook production. By taking on the logistical challenges of organizing school events, Sana and her team enable schools to focus on their primary mission—providing high-quality education and supporting student well-being. From class photos and yearbook creation to large-scale events like talent shows, summer festivals, and graduation ceremonies, EduTainment Solutions handles it all, often at little to no cost thanks to partnerships with sponsors.
What sets EduTainment Solutions apart is its commitment to creating lasting memories while reducing the workload on school staff and parent associations. Sana believes in delivering professional, well-organized events that celebrate the milestones of students, staff, and families. Her approach ensures that every aspect of an event, whether it’s a class photo day or a graduation ceremony, is seamlessly executed and memorable.
Sana’s background in quality control and psychiatric clinic management gives her a unique perspective on student well-being, particularly around issues like nutrition and mental health. This understanding allows her to incorporate educational awareness into events, helping students grow holistically. Her ability to merge practical event management with a focus on well-being makes her an invaluable asset to the schools she serves.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Sana states, “When women lead, they bring a unique blend of empathy, resilience, and vision that not only drives business success but also transforms communities.” Sana Guetari Trabelsi continues to demonstrate this philosophy through her work at EduTainment Solutions, where she champions holistic education, ensuring that students, parents, and teachers experience the joy of learning and growth beyond the classroom.
LinkedIn | Edutainment Solutions
3. Elisa Mueller | Shaping Luxury Hospitality in the GCC
Elisa Mueller, co-founder and managing partner of Maroon Hospitality, has carved a distinguished path in the luxury hospitality sector. With over 15 years of international experience, she has become a trusted leader in the GCC market, known for her dedication to excellence and passion for delivering exceptional service. Her firm, Maroon Hospitality, specializes in luxury representation and consultancy, making waves across the UAE, Germany, Italy, and Turkey and is set to expand to Saudi Arabia this year.
Elisa’s expertise in commercial strategies and operational management has earned her a stellar reputation in the industry. She combines her deep love for hospitality with a sharp business sense, ensuring Maroon Hospitality continues to deliver personalized solutions to its global clientele. Her leadership has been instrumental in expanding the firm’s footprint, positioning it as a leader in luxury consulting services.
A visionary hotelier, Elisa’s impact goes beyond business. She is an active advocate for gender equality, particularly in the GCC, where she encourages women to take on leadership roles. Her belief in the power of women in hospitality is clear: “Women, with their creativity and mindset, can be even more exceptional business drivers and leaders.” Through her efforts, she is helping to shape a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Elisa’s success story is a testament to her ability to blend passion with strategic thinking. She continues to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality, working tirelessly to elevate the standards worldwide. Her contributions not only inspire those within the industry but also pave the way for future female leaders in hospitality.
Through her dedication, Elisa has left an indelible mark on the luxury hospitality world, driving innovation and excellence while championing diversity and empowerment.
LinkedIn | Maroon Hospitality | Website | Instagram
4. Sulafah Jabarti | Driving ClearVision Toward the Future of Digital Innovation
Sulafah Jabarti, CEO and Co-Founder of ClearVision Technology, is at the helm of a company leading the charge in global digital transformation. With over a decade of experience, she has positioned ClearVision as a trusted partner in helping businesses navigate the evolving digital landscape. Her leadership is rooted in a vision for empowering organizations through tailored IT solutions, from cutting-edge infrastructure and cloud systems to advanced cybersecurity and custom-built applications.
ClearVision has made significant strides under Sulafah’s leadership, particularly in revolutionizing Industry 4.0 technologies for the manufacturing sector. One of the company’s standout innovations is its groundbreaking research management system, which has set a new standard for efficiency and transparency. By forging strategic partnerships with international tech firms, Sulafah ensures ClearVision remains a leader in integrating the latest emerging technologies into its comprehensive suite of services.
Beyond business metrics, Sulafah places a strong emphasis on personal and professional growth. “Success isn’t just measured by results; it’s defined by the growth we experience along the journey,” she notes. This philosophy underscores her leadership style, which prioritizes both business success and the development of the people driving it forward.
A passionate advocate for women in leadership, Sulafah is dedicated to creating pathways for female empowerment in the tech industry. “When competent women are at the table, the value they bring is undeniable,” she asserts. Sulafah continues to champion the inclusion of women in dynamic roles, ensuring they have the opportunity to influence and innovate in meaningful ways. She is also the Founder and Board Member of the Business Women Empowerment Association.
In addition to her role at ClearVision, Sulafah serves as Chair of the Digital Economy Committee on the ICC Board of Saudi Arabia and is a member of multiple international business councils and collaborations. Her work is shaping not only the future of digital transformation but also creating a more inclusive and dynamic environment for women leaders. With a focus on innovation and empowerment, Sulafah is paving the way for a transformative digital future.
LinkedIn | ClearVision | Website
5. Samar Hussainy Abouelkheir | A Visionary in Content Strategy and Corporate Communication
Samar Hussainy Abouelkheir, the founder and Managing Director of ContentME, stands as a pioneering force in content strategy and corporate communication in the Middle East. With over two decades of experience spanning business development, marketing, research, and content development for businesses and organizations, Samar has successfully carved out a niche for herself by addressing the growing demand for digital business content and for increasing the localized Arabic online. Through ContentME and ContentME Digital LLC, she is helping businesses in Egypt and the Gulf build stronger brands by streamlining communication and eloquently telling their stories.
Samar’s impressive portfolio includes co-founding e-motion DCA, a leading digital creations company established in 1999, which has since grown into a holding company with five subsidiaries. Her leadership at e-motion DCA has cemented her reputation as an industry leader and entrepreneur, driving digital transformation across multiple sectors.
As a Certified Board Director from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Samar sits on the boards of two NGOs, demonstrating her commitment to good corporate governance and deepening her understanding of business practices for good governance throughout different business stages and industries. Her certification aligns with global IFC corporate governance guidelines, emphasizing her strategic ability to guide organizations toward sustainable growth nationally and regionally. In addition, she has worked as a consultant for several government and non-government organizations, such as Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Egypt’s Information and Decision Support Center, further showcasing her wide-reaching impact.
Samar’s work at ContentME exemplifies her belief in the power of communication to drive business success. “Businesses are made for people and by people, and effective communication is the key to strengthening relationships and fostering growth,” she asserts. At ContentME, she and her team have created corporate content for over 120 companies in the past decade, managing the production of over 2.5 million words from portals, infographics, company profiles, intranets, and many mediums. Through her leadership, ContentME is elevating businesses’ communication strategies to new heights, offering personalized consultation services and delivering impactful content that resonates with a variety of stakeholders.
Samar is a strong advocate for bridging the knowledge gap in the Middle East through localized Arabic content. She believes language should never hinder access to information and emphasizes the need for businesses to localize their content for Arabic-speaking audiences. “We must create Arabic content that serves all stakeholders across industries, ensuring knowledge is accessible to everyone and innovation is more feasible based on worldwide shared knowledge,” she asserts.
At ContentME, Samar is not only transforming content creation but also empowering freelancers, particularly women and elderly citizens. By offering flexible work arrangements and mentorship, she provides opportunities for women to achieve financial independence while contributing to the digital economy.
LinkedIn | ContentMe | Website
6. Vino Supraja | Revolutionizing Fashion with Sustainability
Vino Supraja, founder of the sustainable fashion brand Vino Supraja, is a woman on a mission to revolutionize the fashion industry, turning it into a force for good in 2024. Her brand has become a leading voice in sustainable fashion, fusing artistic design with ethical practices. Vino’s commitment to eco-friendly fashion goes beyond just aesthetics; it’s about crafting timeless pieces that are environmentally responsible, socially conscious, and deeply rooted in traditional craftsmanship. She is also the author of the book, ‘What is Sustainable Fashion? An Antidote to Fashion Pollution’.
The success of Vino Supraja stems from a clear vision: to create high-quality garments that support grassroots artisans and respect the planet. By collaborating with weavers in remote Indian villages, Vino preserves time-honored techniques while introducing sustainable, contemporary designs. She’s led the charge against fast fashion by advocating for conscious consumption and transparency in the industry, educating consumers about the hidden costs of cheap, mass-produced clothing.
Vino’s groundbreaking use of AI in her campaigns, such as her “Killer Fashion” initiative raising awareness on animal cruelty, has set Vino Supraja apart as an innovator in the digital age. Her ability to merge technology with advocacy has allowed her brand to reach global audiences and inspire meaningful change.
In 2024, Vino Supraja continues to lead by example, proving that sustainable fashion is not just a trend, but a revolution. Her work through her brand Vino Supraja not only reshapes the fashion landscape but also empowers artisans and promotes a more equitable and eco-friendly future.
7. Mas Watad | Revolutionizing Health and Wellness in the Arab World
Mas Watad, co-founder of Dawsat and CEO of Maslinics Ltd, is a visionary leader committed to improving community well-being through culturally tailored health solutions. Her passion for wellness began at the young age of 10 and has since fueled her mission to promote healthier lifestyles across the MENA region.
With a degree in Clinical Dietetics from Hebrew University, Mas recognized the need for culturally appropriate health interventions. This led to the creation of the Dawsat Method, a unique points system designed around traditional Arab cuisine, enabling individuals to manage their weight while honoring their dietary preferences. What began as a small support group in her home soon evolved into a movement that positively impacted entire communities.
Under Mas’s leadership, Dawsat has grown into a leading health platform that combines traditional wellness practices with cutting-edge technology. The Dawsat app and online services provide accessible, personalized health coaching to combat the rising obesity and diabetes rates in the Arab world. By integrating technology, Mas has extended Dawsat’s reach, offering support to users across the region.
A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, Mas focuses on engaging women in health conversations to drive long-term change. “Empowering women in health is not just about better individual outcomes; it’s about transforming communities,” she emphasizes. By educating women, Mas believes she is helping shape healthier families and, ultimately, healthier communities.
LinkedIn | Dawsat | Company LinkedIn.
8. Basma El Zein | Pioneering Innovation in Energy and Gender Equality
Basma El Zein, Director General of Techno-Valley at the University of Business and Technology in Jeddah, is a trailblazer in the field of energy conversion and storage technology. Known for her passion for research and innovation, Basma has become a role model, leading transformative advancements that address global challenges.
At Techno-Valley, she fosters a collaborative environment focused on developing technologies that improve life quality and tackle pressing global issues. Her leadership encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, promoting open science, and expanding the reach of research and innovation worldwide. A core part of her mission is aligning technology with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that innovation drives progress towards a more sustainable world.
Basma is also a vocal advocate for gender equality in the field of nanotechnology, recognizing the pivotal role women play in the renewable energy sector. “In the fast-moving field of nanotechnology for renewable energy, women engineers are key players, helping to lead us to a greener, more inclusive future,” she states. Her vision is to create a future where teamwork and innovation propel sustainability and equality.
Through her leadership, Basma El Zein continues to inspire future generations of engineers and innovators, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and technological advancement in building a better world.
LinkedIn | University of Business and Technology, Jeddah
9. Noora Ahmed | Championing Knowledge-Based Leadership in the UAE
Noora Ahmed, an influential leader in business development and customer experience, has made significant strides in fostering a merit-based workplace culture in the UAE. As Senior Vice President and Managing Director, she is widely recognized for her contributions to organizational excellence. Nearing the completion of her doctorate, Noora continues to challenge traditional biases and is certified as an Excellence Assessor for EFQM & DQA with multiple ISO lead auditor certifications. Her expertise positions her as a powerful advocate for professional growth based on skills and knowledge.
Noora rejects the idea that gender bias is a primary issue in the UAE, instead highlighting knowledge bias as the main obstacle to women in leadership roles. “No gender bias exists in the UAE working market; we only have the knowledge bias issue. We need the women to gain more expertise to prove themselves in any chair/position,” she asserts. Her focus on expertise over gender reflects her vision of a workplace where advancement is earned through demonstrated skill and competence.
As a strong advocate for work-life balance, Noora believes that maintaining a healthy equilibrium between personal and professional life is essential for long-term success. She advises professionals to work both hard and smart, concentrating on what is urgent and important to ensure career sustainability while safeguarding personal well-being. Her approach is aimed at helping women achieve lasting success without sacrificing their personal lives.
Noora Ahmed’s visionary leadership and strategic initiatives continue to shape the professional landscape in the UAE, promoting a culture of meritocracy and equal opportunities. Her dedication to creating environments where skills and knowledge are valued over gender drives both individual growth and broader workplace equality.
10. Jenni Chamberlain | Leading Financial Innovation and Gender-Focused Investing in Africa
Jenni Chamberlain, the Chief Executive Officer of Altree Capital and Portfolio Manager for both the Altree Africa Fund and the Africa Opportunities Fund SAC Ltd, is recognized as one of Africa’s leading fund managers. With a career spanning over two decades, Jenni’s strategic and innovative leadership in the financial sector has had a lasting impact. Under her management, the Altree Africa Fund was named the Africa ex-South Africa Fund of the Year by Africa Fund Manager in 2011, solidifying her reputation as a top figure in African public market fund management.
Jenni is a visionary in financial strategies and a strong advocate for gender-focused impact investing. She is at the forefront of Altree Capital’s mission to generate sustainable and ethical returns through investments that not only drive growth but also promote social good. Her leadership in launching the Altree Kadzi Gender Climate Fund showcases her commitment to empowering women in Africa while addressing climate change. “Altree Kadzi Gender Climate Fund provides growth capital to Africa’s most ambitious women, ensuring climate-smart practices and leveraging technology for scalability and efficiency,” Jenni states, reflecting her focus on sustainability and gender equality.
Her extensive experience goes beyond traditional fund management. Jenni plays an integral role on global credit and risk committees, ensuring that all investments meet rigorous standards of risk management and ethical compliance. Her expertise in navigating complex financial landscapes, coupled with her focus on sustainability, sets her apart as a leader in ethical investing.
Jenni’s work to empower women entrepreneurs is at the core of her investment philosophy. She believes in harnessing the untapped potential of women to drive innovation and growth across sectors, advocating for greater opportunities for female leaders. Through her strategic investment approach, Jenni Chamberlain is not only shaping the financial sector but also contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future.
LinkedIn | Altree Capital | Website
Breaking Barriers, Redefining Success
In today’s world, leadership is no longer defined by old-school, top-down management styles. The top 10 female leaders we’ve talk about are rewriting that script. They’re driving change with bold ideas, embracing innovation, and staying grounded in what matters most: people. Whether they’re using cutting-edge technology to solve big problems or building inclusive cultures that value diversity, these women are showing that leadership doesn’t have to fit into a rigid mold.
Their impact goes beyond their industries. These leaders are not only making waves in business but are also committed to helping others rise—lifting up other women along the way. They’ve built successful businesses, driven social change, and opened doors for the next generation of female entrepreneurs and executives.
Conclusion
The influence of these top 10 female leaders is hard to miss. As they continue to break new ground, they’re showing the world that when women lead, everyone benefits. Their passion, courage, and vision are transforming the future of business, and it’s just the beginning.
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