Ahella's Inspiring Journey: From Academia to Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
In a recent interview, Ahella, a remarkable woman and entrepreneur, shared her inspiring journey, highlighting the challenges and lessons she learned along the way. From her early days in academia to her current role as co-founder of Exits Mena, a platform supporting startups and SMEs, Ahellah's path has been one of continuous growth and transformation.
Early Career and Google Experience
Ahella began her career in academia, specialising in consumer behaviour and psychology. However, her path took a significant turn when she joined Google in Dubai. This experience exposed her to diverse projects, challenging her limits and honing skills like multitasking and communication. The transition from academia to corporate life was challenging, but it equipped her with valuable experience in working under pressure and managing multiple responsibilities.
Starting Lumas and Supporting SMEs
Ahella's passion for working with startups and SMEs led her to found Lumas, a market research company. This venture allowed her to collaborate with businesses across Egypt, witnessing the impressive entrepreneurial spirit in various governorates.
Co-Founding Exits Mena and Expanding to Saudi Arabia
Two years ago, Ahella co-founded Exits Mena, a platform dedicated to supporting startups and SMEs seeking fundraising or exit strategies. The platform has achieved significant traction, recently expanding its brand to Saudi Arabia. Ahellah's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs, particularly women, is evident in her work.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Ahella candidly shared the challenges she faced, including imposter syndrome and the pressure to balance her personal life with demanding work. She emphasized the importance of seeking support from mentors and building a strong network. Ahellah's openness about her experiences serves as a reminder that even successful individuals face self-doubt and difficult times.
Mentorship and the Importance of Cross-Cultural Experience
Ahella stressed the crucial role of mentors, especially for women. Mentors provide guidance, support, and diverse perspectives. She also highlighted the significance of cross-cultural experience in understanding and respecting different viewpoints, a valuable skill in today's globalized world.
Advice for Young Women and the Future of Women in the Workplace
Ahella offered invaluable advice for young women starting their careers:
- Focus on developing skills outside of academic studies.
- Pursue internships and gain work experience before graduating.
- Start a side hustle or income-generating business early on.
- Seek mentors who are experts in their field and have cross-cultural experience.
- Be confident, negotiate your worth, and embrace risk-taking.
Ahellah envisions a future with more female investors, female-led unicorns in the startup ecosystem, and inclusive hiring practices that prioritize fairness and competency over gender. Her journey and insights are a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and the importance of building a supportive community.