Playbook Recognized by Forbes for Pioneering Efforts in Women in Tech Leadership

Championing Women’s Leadership with the Prestigious Forbes 20 Women in Tech Award

MENA: PLAYBOOK, an innovative digital membership networking platform founded by Wafa AlObaidat, and her co-founders, Ismahan Al-Saad, and Shreya Rammohan, has been awarded the #1 startup at a prestigious conference focused on the African, European, and Middle Eastern startup ecosystems. This accolade highlights PLAYBOOK’s commitment to transforming leadership and accelerating women across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Wafa AlObaidat, a serial entrepreneur, has made significant strides in addressing the gender gap in leadership and economic participation through PLAYBOOK. Despite women holding less than 17% of C-Suite positions and less than 4% of Board Positions globally, PLAYBOOK has become a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. By providing women with the tools and resources they need to excel, PLAYBOOK fosters an inclusive environment where female professionals can thrive.

The platform’s unique features, such as a cinematic library of masterclasses, executive speaker sessions, workshops, and virtual networking lounges, are tailored to meet the needs of female executives. Personalised 1:1 coaching and mentorship opportunities, along with a marketplace for jobs and perks, further enhance the professional journeys of its members. PLAYBOOK’s localised approach allows women to connect within their local circles while engaging with a global audience across 50+ countries.

"A significant topic of discussion in a recent feature by Forbes Cyprus was the importance of integrating women into existing streams of influence rather than creating separate spaces," said Wafa AlObaidat. "True inclusion means that women are central to leadership narratives, and this vision is reflected in PLAYBOOK’s mission to support women in becoming integral parts of decision-making processes."

One of the critical challenges addressed by PLAYBOOK is the pervasive gender gap in the tech industry. With only 2.3% of global venture capital funding directed to female founders, there is an urgent need for a transformative solution. PLAYBOOK’s acquisition of Women Spark, the largest angel investment network in Saudi Arabia for women, is a strategic move to provide essential resources and networks for female founders and investors in the Middle East. This acquisition positions PLAYBOOK as the region’s largest network of female angel investors, pioneering programs to foster innovation and career growth.

Emerging trends such as artificial intelligence and sustainability are closely watched by PLAYBOOK. AI applications in business processes and the increasing importance of social responsibility are driving businesses toward more sustainable practices. PLAYBOOK leverages AI to offer personalised learning and career resources, aiming to close the gender gap and enhance diversity in the tech industry.

Looking forward, PLAYBOOK plans to expand its global presence, reaching Asia, Australia, and the USA, and partnering with leading organisations to bring its unique offerings to more women worldwide. The focus on financial well-being, platform scaling, and AI-driven personalised learning experiences underscores PLAYBOOK’s commitment to advocating for women’s leadership and navigating the evolving entrepreneurial landscape.

To read more: https://thefuturemedia.eu/championing-womens-leadership-wafa-alobaidat-founder-and-ceo-of-playbook/