Alaa Khushaim, Director of Marketing and Communications at McDonald’s KSA – West & South, is all about female empowerment.
So it is a perfect fit that she has been chosen to be the ambassador for the Maheerah Programme, part of next month’s Athar Festival of Creativity taking place in Saudi Arabia.
The programme is open to 10 high-potential women in the creative marcomms industry in KSA.
Offering the chance to connect with other women who share the same challenges, goals and aspirations, participants will gain valuable knowledge, skills and insights from industry leaders.
Khushaim said: “I am a big believer that Saudi is full of amazing talents. I would love nothing more than to support in nurturing them. Saudi is on a huge growth trajectory. As a Saudi citizen I have a responsibility to help.”
For her, the Maheerah Programme is an avenue for fulfil this responsibility by enabling and inspiring women with the right skills and knowledge.
“We are in the industry of inspiration. It allows us to deliver better marketing and comms experiences to our customers.
“Maheerah will give me the opportunity to hear from women who are in similar positions who are going to speak freely without the constraint that the manager-employee relationship might have. This will help me become a better leader for my team.”
Maheerah Programme will also give participants the opportunity to connect with other industry leaders, exchange thoughts, build relationships and creating a long-lasting impact.
“Since we are all in the marketing and communications industry, it is no secret that this is an opportunity for self-promotion and getting recognised in the industry”.
Her advice to all women is to embrace the opportunities you get and don’t hold back. And with rapid change in the creative and marcomm industry it is essential to stay humble and continue to be curious.
“Have courage and take ownership in what you do. The most powerful ideas are always disapproved first. If you are not taking risks, then what are you doing?
“Always adopt a problem-solving mindset. Finally, always remember that the customer is the most important one here (not the client, not the agency, not the boss).”
Talking about Athar, which takes place from 14-16 November, she added: “I am very excited about the festival. The Marketing and Creative community is coming together to exchange thoughts, inspire each other and explore new opportunities together.
“The amount of knowledge and expertise that will be present in the festival is going to be unparalleled.”
*Applications are still open for the Maheerah Programme, as the deadline has been extended to 29 October.
For more details, visit www.atharfestival.com/maheerah-programme
