BrazilDeloitte and IWBD host Dubai event to champion inclusive leadership
In a joint event by Deloitte and the International Women’s Board of Directors (IWBD), the co-organisers informed senior women leaders from across the Middle East on the essential skills that are needed to excel in today’s dynamic business environment.
The event, which was held on April 29 in Dubai, began with a compelling panel discussion featuring Rana Salhab, Managing Partner for People & Purpose at Deloitte in the Middle East and Pelin Incesu, Area Vice President at AstraZeneca, moderated by IWBD chairwoman Ebru Tuygun,. The panellists shared their experiences, emphasising the evolution of their styles, the significance of adaptability, and the impact of understanding different leadership types in leading inclusively.
“We continue to challenge bias and promote professional growth at every level. True progress requires measurable impact, and continued action is crucial to creating a workplace where all women are empowered, and where diverse representation is respected. Together, let’s create a future where every woman’s potential is fully realized,” said Salhab, who has been recognized as a diversity champion by the Financial Times.
“There is a great value in understanding the diverse leadership types of our colleagues. Challenging the bias towards a single leadership style is crucial to drive innovation and promote inclusion at all levels in the workplace,” said Salhab continued.
“Inclusion is more than a policy, it’s a core value that shapes our culture,” added Maya Rafii, who is Purpose, Culture & Inclusion leader at Deloitte in the Middle East. “Embracing diverse leadership styles allows us to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered.”
The Business Chemistry framework
Following the panel, attendees engaged in an interactive session exploring the Business Chemistry framework, a research-based tool developed by Deloitte designed to help leaders understand varying working styles and enhance collaboration. Participants gained practical insights into working effectively with diverse teams and transforming challenging dynamics into opportunities for mutual growth.
“At IWBD, we are committed to shaping a new era of leadership – one rooted in self-awareness, empathy, and collaboration. Partnering with Deloitte on this session reflects our shared belief in the power of understanding human dynamics to drive inclusive, impactful leadership. It was more than a session – it’s a catalyst for executives to lead with authenticity and connection in an increasingly complex world,” said Tuygun.
“This event was part of a larger commitment by Deloitte to support the advancement of women to leadership roles, providing platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and the cultivation of an inclusive workplace where diverse leadership can flourish,” concluded Salhab.
