A beacon of innovation and a guide for transformation, Dr. Laila Faridoon has woven over two decades of leadership into a tapestry of impact. From her pivotal role as Executive Director at Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, where she monitored visionary initiatives like Expo 2020, to her ongoing pursuit of knowledge – she recently completed her PhD from King’s College London, and became the CEO of the New Economy Academy, Dr. Laila’s journey is one of relentless curiosity and purposeful action.
As the founder of Looking Forward Consultancy, she empowers organisations to navigate the shifting sands of change with clarity and confidence. Through her acclaimed book, Looking Forward to the Bright Side, she offers a roadmap for turning challenges into stepping stones and aspirations into achievements.
Learning and sharing knowledge. I’ve always been curious, and over the years, I’ve realised that acquiring new skills and insights gives me a deep sense of fulfilment. But it’s not just about what I learn – it’s about how I can use that knowledge to help others grow.
I’ve been able to lead teams and organisations towards success. This passion for learning, sharing, and leading has shaped my career, most recently in joining the New Economy Academy as the CEO, where I continue to inspire others to learn and grow.
Growing up in the UAE, I’ve witnessed rapid transformation – from a culture rooted in history and heritage to one that is at the forefront of technology and global business. This unique blend has instilled in me a strong sense of pride in our traditions, values, and the leadership’s vision for the future. It has also taught me the importance of diversity and openness.
The country’s visionary leadership and commitment to innovation and progress created an environment where opportunities for growth and development are abundant.
The UAE’s focus on women’s empowerment has also been instrumental in my journey. Being in a country that actively promotes gender equality and supports women in leadership positions has given me the confidence and platform to take on roles in technology, innovation, and corporate management.
I feel a strong responsibility to pay it forward to the next generation. I do this by actively mentoring and guiding young professionals, especially women, helping them navigate their careers and find their place in the world of technology and innovation. By advocating for women in STEM and leadership roles, I aim to show young women that there are no limits to what they can achieve. I regularly speak at conferences and events to inspire others, and I’m involved in initiatives that support women’s empowerment, in the UAE and globally.
The importance of embracing failure as a learning tool. I’ve come to realise that failure is often the greatest teacher. It provides valuable insights and can lead to personal and professional growth if approached with the right mindset. I’ve learned that it’s not about avoiding failure, but about how you recover and use it to fuel your success.
Another thing I wish I’d known earlier is the importance of self-advocacy and confidently voicing my ambitions. Speaking up for yourself and seeking out opportunities can accelerate your growth.
Expanding the reach and impact of the New Economy Academy. I’m excited to build more strategic partnerships locally and globally, positioning the Academy as a leading hub for economic knowledge and financial capacity building. We’re entering a time where skills in emerging technologies and new economic models are in high demand – the challenge will be to stay ahead of the curve while empowering professionals and businesses to navigate this evolving landscape.
I aspire to represent my culture to the wider world by showcasing its rich heritage, values, and the spirit of innovation that defines the UAE today. I believe in promoting a narrative that highlights our history, traditions, and the progressive vision of our leadership, emphasising how these elements coexist in a rapidly changing global landscape.
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