Women, AI, and the future of Saudi business: Fadwa Albawardi’s vision for a digital era

Women's Tabloid News Desk

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, a few individuals exemplify resilience, vision, and unwavering determination as powerfully as Fadwa Saad Abdulrahman AlBawardi. A visionary leader, successful entrepreneur, and consultant, Fadwa has played a transformative role in shaping technology consulting in the business sector of Saudi Arabia. As the founder and CEO of FSAB, she has brought a fresh and dynamic approach to digital transformation, strategic planning, and performance management. With over 21 years of experience across various leadership roles in the realms of IT, strategy, and business consulting, Fadwa has become one of the most influential emerging business leaders in the Kingdom.

Her journey is nothing short of inspiring—starting as a programmer and progressing to senior roles in project management and strategic planning, Fadwa has navigated through diverse industries and challenges with exceptional skill and tenacity. Along the way, she has not only excelled professionally but has become a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to help more women entrepreneurs achieve their dreams. Fadwa’s influence extends beyond her work at her consulting office; as a best-selling author, speaker, and media guest, she regularly shares her insights on technological advancements, digital economy, and leadership.

Today, we are honored to sit down with Fadwa AlBawardi for an exclusive Q&A session, where she delves deeper into her entrepreneurial journey, her approach to leadership, and the values that have shaped her success. From discussing her strategic vision for the future of digital transformation to sharing personal lessons learned from overcoming challenges, Fadwa offers invaluable wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and passion, and it serves as a guiding light for the next generation of leaders. Get ready to be inspired by an entrepreneurial force who is not only making waves in the consulting industry but is also paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps.

Women’s Tabloid: As the Founder and CEO of your own consulting office, how have you navigated the challenges of being a one-woman operation in the highly competitive digital transformation and AI consulting sector in Saudi Arabia?

Fadwa Saad Abdulrahman AlBawardi: As the Founder and CEO of a single-person FSAB consulting office in digital transformation and AI in Saudi Arabia, navigating the competitive landscape requires a “strategic focus on niche specialization and personal branding”. By identifying a specific area of expertise, such as AI consultations and related-trainings, I can differentiate myself from larger firms. Building a strong online presence through a professional website, being a public speaker locally and internationally, as well as engaging on platforms like LinkedIn establish my thought leadership and attract potential clients. Offering tailored, value-added services, such as workshops and personalized consulting, fosters strong client relationships and encourages referrals. Additionally, utilizing technology for project management and staying updated on industry trends ensures that I remain agile and competitive, allowing me to effectively address client needs and drive successful outcomes in digital transformation journeys.

WT: What specific strategies do you employ to stay ahead of technological trends, particularly in digital transformation and artificial intelligence, to ensure your consulting office offers cutting-edge solutions?

FSAB: I employ a multifaceted approach to stay ahead of technological trends. I prioritize continuous learning through online courses and industry certifications, ensuring I am well-versed in the latest tools and methodologies. Attending industry conferences and webinars allows me, as well, to network with experts and gain insights into emerging trends. I actively follow reputable tech publications and engage in research to analyze successful case studies, which informs my consulting strategies. By combining these strategies, I ensure my consulting office remains competitive and capable of delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to my clients’ needs.

WT: With over 21 years of experience in the IT and strategy sectors, how do you foresee the future of digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, and what role do you think women entrepreneurs will play in shaping this future?

FSAB: With over 21 years of experience in the IT and strategy sectors, I foresee a dynamic future for digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, driven by the nation’s Vision 2030 initiative, which emphasizes innovation and technology across all the various sectors. As organizations increasingly adopt advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and Blockchain, there will be a significant demand for skilled professionals who can navigate these changes. Women entrepreneurs will play a pivotal role in shaping this future, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to the table. Their participation can foster a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, encouraging collaboration and creativity in technology-driven projects. Moreover, as more women enter leadership positions within the tech industry, they will inspire the next generation of female leaders, driving initiatives that prioritize digital literacy and STEM education for young women. This collective effort will not only enhance the digital landscape but also contribute to economic growth and societal advancement in Saudi Arabia.

WT: In terms of business growth, what are the main challenges you face as an entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia, especially given the dynamic changes in the business landscape due to Vision 2030?

FSAB: I face some few challenges in terms of business growth amidst the dynamic changes brought about by Vision 2030. One primary challenge is the intense competition from both established firms and emerging start-ups, making it crucial to differentiate my services effectively. Furthermore, the rapid pace of technological advancement necessitates ongoing learning and adaptation, which can be resource-intensive. Lastly, fostering client trust and demonstrating the tangible value of digital transformation initiatives remains essential, as some organizations may sometimes be hesitant to embrace full radical change in their operations, especially in adopting AI with its consistencies and ethical issues. Addressing these few challenges is vital for sustainable growth and success in this evolving landscape.

WT: What motivated you to establish your consulting office after more than two decades of working in large organizations? How did you transition from a corporate role to entrepreneurship?

FSAB: After over two decades in large organizations, I was motivated to establish my consulting office in digital transformation and AI by the desire to leverage my extensive experience in a more impactful and personalized way. I witnessed first-hand the challenges organizations faced in embracing digital innovation, and I was passionate about providing consultations that bridge the gap between technology and business strategy. The transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship came naturally as I recognized the growing demand for expert guidance in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. I began by identifying niche areas where I could add value and built a robust network within the industry. With a clear vision and a commitment to continuous learning, I embraced the entrepreneurial spirit, allowing me to foster close relationships with clients and tailor my strategies to meet their unique needs, driving meaningful change in their organizations.

WT: How do you manage to deliver such diverse services (Strategic Planning, AI, Digital Transformation) as a solo entrepreneur, and what support structures do you have in place, if any, to ensure efficient operations?

FSAB: As a solo entrepreneur at FSAB Consulting, I deliver diverse services like Strategic Planning, AI, and Digital Transformation by continuously promoting my services over the different social media platforms, documenting every success story to gain more trust, as well as managing my schedule properly to enhance prioritized service delivery on time and with high quality. Continuous professional development through online courses and industry seminars also keeps me updated on the latest trends and technologies, allowing me to provide informed insights to clients. This strategic blend of collaboration and technology enables me to maintain high standards and responsiveness while managing a diverse range of services effectively.

WT: Your company focuses on strategic planning and performance management in the digital age. Can you elaborate on a specific project where you had to overcome significant obstacles to achieve a successful transformation for your client?

FSAB: One notable project was with a Saudi Arabian organization, where I led a digital transformation initiative aimed at enhancing their service delivery and customer engagement. They faced some obstacles, including outdated IT infrastructure, siloed departments, and the lack of a digital culture among staff. To overcome these challenges, I worked closely with stakeholders to develop a tailored strategic plan, which included establishing a digital governance framework, and designing a new organizational structure. Despite initial resistance to change, we achieved a successful transformation, and a significant improvement in overall operational efficiency, ultimately enhancing the client’s ability to serve its customers effectively.

WT: How do you balance being a mentor, a journalist, a bestselling author, and a consultant without compromising on any of these roles? What is your approach to time management and productivity?

FSAB: Balancing my roles as a mentor, journalist, bestselling author, and consultant requires meticulous time management and strategic prioritization. I leverage frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish between urgent and important tasks, allowing me to allocate focused time blocks to each role. I dedicate specific days for writing and research, ensuring that my creative outputs as an author are regular and prolific, while also scheduling trainings, consultancy and mentorship sessions to nurture emerging talent in digital transformation. As a consultant, I implement agile methodologies, breaking down projects into manageable sprints that allow for flexibility in addressing client needs without sacrificing my other commitments. This structured approach enables me to integrate insights from my consulting work into my writing and mentorship, creating a synergistic effect that enriches each role without compromising quality or focus.

WT: As a key player in the digital economy, how do you see the impact of AI and data governance on businesses in the coming years, and how are you preparing your clients for this inevitable shift?

FSAB: I believe that the integration of AI and data governance is set to profoundly reshape the digital economy, with businesses expected to harness advanced analytics and machine learning for enhanced decision-making and operational efficiency. In the coming years, organizations may face increasing scrutiny regarding data privacy and ethical AI usage, necessitating robust governance frameworks that ensure compliance and build consumer trust. To prepare our clients for this inevitable shift, there is a focus on developing comprehensive data management strategies that prioritize transparency, accountability, and security. This includes implementing best practices for data collection, usage, and sharing, alongside fostering a culture of ethical AI deployment. Investing in training programs that equip teams with the skills needed to interpret AI-driven insights while adhering to regulatory standards, is essential, as well. By proactively addressing these challenges, clients can leverage the full potential of AI while navigating the complex landscape of data governance effectively.

WT: You’ve taken on the challenge of being a mentor for emerging African techpreneurs. What key lessons from this mentorship have you applied to your own work, and how does it feel to influence the next generation of entrepreneurs?

FSAB: As a one-person Saudi Arabian entrepreneur mentoring emerging African techpreneurs, I have learned invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the power of collaboration. Witnessing their diverse perspectives and innovative approaches has inspired me to embrace a more inclusive mindset in my own work, pushing me to explore new markets and ideas I hadn’t previously considered. One profound realization is the importance of community support; it reinforces the idea that success is not just an individual path but a shared journey. Influencing the next generation of entrepreneurs brings immense fulfilment, as I see them overcome challenges and pursue their dreams with passion and determination. It reminds me of my own beginnings and instils a sense of responsibility to foster opportunities for others. This mentorship not only enriches my personal growth but strengthens a spirit of entrepreneurship across borders, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and interconnected global economy.