Zainab Abu Al-Samh, Managing Director of MBC Academy, MBC Talent, and MBC Studios, took part in a panel session on the third day of the Saudi Media Forum, held at the Investment Theatre.
! A Forum for Female Leaders: Discussing Cultural Transformation
The session, titled “Women Leaders Shaping the Future: The Role of Women in Driving Cultural Transformation,” brought together prominent female leaders, including Princess Ameera Al-Taweel, Chairwoman of the Saudi Women Leaders Network, and Dr. Maimoona Al-Khalil, Secretary-General of the Family Affairs Council. The session was moderated by media professional Wafaa Al-Ruhaili.

Highlighting Women’s Growing Influence
Moreover, the discussion highlighted the growing leadership role of Saudi women in decision-making through influential experiences and successful models that have contributed to innovation and institutional transformation, as well as women’s role in supporting digital development and empowering the next generation.
Zainab Abu Al-Samh on the Pillars of Sustainable Leadership
In her remarks, Abu Al-Samh emphasized that a balanced environment and genuine support are the two fundamental pillars for building sustainable female leadership. Specifically, she noted that what once began as symbolic initiatives for women’s empowerment has evolved into a deeply rooted awareness and a more balanced ecosystem.
The Critical Role of Support Systems
Furthermore, she stressed that success for women in leadership positions is not achieved individually, but rather through the support of partners, family, and the workplace.
Empowerment Through Partnership with Men
Abu Al-Samh affirmed that women’s empowerment is realized through partnership with men, adding that institutional initiatives, such as women’s empowerment committees, represent an important step toward greater awareness. However, she underscored the importance of including decision-makers who can address the challenges women face and remove obstacles that hinder their progress.
A Case Study in Empowerment: MBC Academy
She also spoke about her experience leading MBC Academy, which offers a wide range of creative opportunities for Saudi youth and plays a key role in their empowerment. Finally, she pointed out that the number of young women applying to the academy significantly exceeds that of young men, reflecting the openness and opportunities made possible by the Kingdom’s wise leadership in supporting women.
Stay Connected:
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/executivewomen_/
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/executive-women/
Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExecutiveWomen/
Read more articles: https://executive-women.global/en/the-gulfs-growth-engine-how-women-in-finance-will-power-the-next-economic-wave/



