Adaptability Will Define the Next Generation of Women Leaders
Ghada Ali, Head of Strategic Alliances at Ankabut, speaks about building credibility in competitive spaces, navigating underrepresentation at executive levels, and adapting to technology-driven change. She highlights the importance of digital literacy, mentorship, and creating workplace cultures where merit, trust, and equal opportunity define career growth.
What defining moments or challenges most shaped your professional journey?
The defining moments were leading through complexity while navigating expectations in traditionally high-pressure spaces. Moments like building strong relationships with people and leading with strength and empathy shaped me into the leader I am today.
What barriers do women still face in leadership today that aren’t talked about enough?
Women have to consistently prove themselves to break the glass ceiling. It still seems that women are minority on executive level, this is changing while we push through. We should support competency and ambition in any industry and train and encourage women to be the leaders of the future.
How have you built credibility and influence in environments where women are underrepresented?
I have built credibility by consistently showing up to learn, deliver with an impact and by articulating with poise and professionalism, even in rooms where I was the minority. I chose preparation over permission and substance over visibility. By aligning strategy this creates an influence as a natural outcome rather than something I had to demand.
How is technology—especially AI and automation—changing leadership expectations in your industry?
Leaders are now expected to do more than just supervision, but to know how the technology can drive the business forward. Since AI is automating repetitive tasks, leaders should ensure that technology is used responsibly and there is transparency while making sure decisions are still based on human judgment.
What skills or mindsets will be most critical for the next generation of women leaders?
Next-generation women leaders should have an adaptable mindset. This will allow them to easily respond to change. Being digitally literate is an important skill to have, as nearly all industries use some form of technology. One should be able to comfortably use any digital system and learn new digital tools without hesitation. Women leaders should also know how to make decisions with confidence and no second guessing.
What role have mentorship and sponsorship played in your career, and how do you support others today?
For me, it has always been the leaders who mentored me. Their trust and the responsibility they placed in me gave me to the confidence to grow. I took their advice seriously and today I support my team by doing the same. I ensure their work is recognised. I share my experiences and create a comfortable space where they can grow into leadership roles at their own pace, with self-assurance and support.
How can organizations move beyond policies to create cultures where women genuinely thrive?
Organizations require leaders who create an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, are transparent about goals and results and reward quality work not just constant availability. Strong work culture grows when people are appreciated, given equal changes to grow. This build trust and a safe environment driven by action, not just intention.
What advice would you give young women considering careers in IT, security, or leadership roles?
You don’t have to have everything figured out to grow. The key is to keep learning as you go. Emerging technologies are evolving and the more aware you are, the better prepared you’ll be. Always choose growth over comfort and take up tasks that challenge you. Most important is to create your own definition of success. Confidence comes from competence and leadership often begins long before the title comes.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you, and what real change would you like to see beyond it?
Women should be celebrated every day, but this day in particular shows the progress we have made, and recognition women have gave gained across industries. As we move forward, I hope to see women are in leadership roles that are earned and purely based on their merit, not perception. Real progress will happen when we believe in ourselves and capabilities recognise this.
