The last two decades have seen some advances for the careers of women across countries in Middle East South Asia (MESA), but progress is patchy and there is still a long way to go. As International Women’s Day approaches, AB asked members from the region for their advice on how young women professionals can push ahead.
Understand people’s behaviours
Muzna Hussain FCCA, head of compliance – Pakistan, Haleon (formerly GSK consumer products)
Occupying a leadership role for two countries simultaneously, as head of compliance for Pakistan and Egypt, was an incredible experience. It gave me substantial exposure to understand the dynamics of two countries, with their different languages, unique cultures and ways of working, and risk profiles. I was able to obtain first-hand experience of managing different personalities and tackling complex challenges.
‘Women need equal and unbiased growth and promotion opportunities’
The key to a successful career is understanding the behaviours of people at work and handling each individual tactfully, according to their needs. Always be kind and have a problem-solving approach towards everyone. Ask thought-provoking questions that make you stand out, rather than less relevant ones to seek attention.
For women to fulfil their potential in the workplace, they need equal and unbiased growth and promotion opportunities along with fair pay, all of which are still lacking in the developing countries.
Maintain your uniqueness
Sajindu Perera FCCA, deputy general manager – finance, MAS Holdings, Sri Lanka
Winning ACCA Regional Advocate for the MESA region in 2023 is a real highlight in my career, reflecting my commitment to the profession.
My advice to younger women professionals is to ensure that you don’t lose sight of yourself. We all have our own individual personality, our own unique proposition and, while there is so much going on, we must ensure we don’t end up losing our personal identity.
‘There is plenty that organisations can do to help women advance’
Today, more organisations recognise they have a problem with diversity and inclusion, and are committing to making changes. But they should cautious of quick fixes – this journey is not one that can be won overnight. Moving the needle requires a deep commitment to sustained effort. That is the key that organisations must learn to unlock.
There is plenty that organisations can continue to do to help women advance – from mentorship programmes that prepare them for leadership to sponsorship programmes that help them network. And we should remind men in senior positions that they are well placed to prioritise and support eco-systems that foster greater gender balance.
Believe in yourself
Kulsoom Bakhshi FCCA, head of risk management and distribution insights, and analytics manager, Bayer Middle East, UAE
Laying out the foundations for a data analytics function and optimising finance digitalisation at Bayer MiddleEast has been the most challenging and rewarding highlight of my career. Inside this experience nestled many doors of opportunity, enabling me to be more adaptive to the changing needs of the corporate world.
‘I would make it easier for women to rejoin the workforce after a career gap’
The most vital thing to remember is to believe in yourself. Women can achieve anything and everything, but it’s important to be focused on your goals. There will be numerous obstacles that come along the way, but if you focus on the end result then nothing is impossible.
If I had the opportunity to bring about change that would benefit women’s careers, I would make it easier for them to rejoin the workforce after a career gap. This would make a real difference to their progression.
