ME women entrepreneurs on leadership and growth
Shilpa Shetty’s Insights on Women entrepreneurs across industries are reshaping the business landscape, breaking barriers, and redefining success on their own terms. | Adgully
Shilpa Shetty, Senior Vice President for private client team and partner relations at the Continental Group, is a seasoned financial leader with over 25 years of industry experience. She shares her perspectives on the evolving role of women in leadership, the strategies that have fueled her success, and the changes needed to foster greater gender inclusivity in leadership roles.
Women’s Leadership Evolution in the Middle East
Shilpa acknowledges the significant rise of women in leadership across the Middle East, attributing this shift to progressive reforms, changing societal norms, and government-backed initiatives promoting gender equality. From high-ranking government positions to thriving entrepreneurial ventures, women are making their mark in diverse sectors.
Strategies for Leadership Success
For Shilpa, continuous learning, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are critical in navigating leadership roles. She highlights the importance of empowering teams, setting clear visions, and leveraging digital platforms to amplify leadership impact. Digital tools, AI-driven automation, and social media enable leaders to connect, learn, and influence beyond traditional boundaries.
Challenges and Gender Bias
Despite progress, challenges remain. Women often encounter biases in leadership, from heightened scrutiny to balancing professional and personal roles. While traditional expectations still exist, Shilpa emphasizes that organisations and societies are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse leadership. Corporate mentorship programs and policy reforms are gradually shifting the landscape, making it more conducive for women to thrive.
Policy and Ecosystem Changes
Shilpa advocates for structural and cultural reforms to support female leadership. She calls for investments in leadership training, mentorship initiatives, and workplace policies that ensure pay equity, flexible work options, and unbiased hiring. By increasing representation at the executive level and reshaping societal perceptions, businesses and communities can create a more inclusive leadership ecosystem.
Through her journey and insights, Shilpa Shetty reiterates that while progress has been made, there’s still more to be done. With the right policies, cultural shifts, and continued empowerment, the future of women’s leadership in the Middle East looks promising.
