top of page

🏆 voice of a new era of leaders

POONAM CHAWLA

Transforming boardrooms: Poonam's vision for gender diversity and inclusion

facebook-icon.png
linkedin-icon.png
twitter-icon.png

Founder & Managing Director

International Women Board Of Directors

UAE 🇦🇪

inspirational leader
Poonam Chawla
Poonam Chawla

ABOUT POONAM

Poonam Chawla is recognized globally for her commitment to women's empowerment and diversity, particularly through her role as founder of the International Women Board of Directors (IWBD). This platform is dedicated to increasing female participation on corporate boards and in leadership roles across sectors. Poonam's leadership extends beyond the boardroom as she actively engages with Fortune 500 companies and governmental organizations to champion inclusive policies and practices, making significant strides in shaping the future of gender equality in the workplace.

image.png
SUCCESS IS ABOUT MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT ON INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES.

Poonam Chawla

POONAM IN A NUTSHELL

Founder & Managing Director

International Women Board Of Directors

area of expertise

Coaching Consulting UAE 🇦🇪

companies Poonam has worked for

leadership

POONAM AS A LEADER

"Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence." - This principle guides me in my commitment to not only lead but also empower, mentor, and inspire. Through IWBD, I aim to create a sustainable and inclusive environment where women are encouraged to ascend to leadership positions and make impactful decisions. My leadership philosophy focuses on fostering diversity, promoting equity, and supporting the personal and professional growth of individuals. By doing so, I believe we can achieve a more balanced and fair workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Leadership is not about control, but about inspiration.

Great Leaders lead by example.

The future of leadership is collaborative, inclusive, and purpose-driven.

When I think of a leader, I think of When I think of a leader, I think of someone who is visionary, resilient, and adaptable.

Poonam Chawla
image.png
ADAPTABILITY IS THE MOST UNDERESTIMATED SKILL FOR FUTURE LEADERS.

Poonam Chawla

POONAM ON OVERCOMING CHALLENGES AS A FEMALE LEADER IN A MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRY

Poonam's journey as the first female leader to launch and lead Bloomberg Businessweek Middle-East presented significant challenges. In a male-dominated industry, breaking stereotypes and gaining credibility required her to focus on her expertise, knowledge, and leadership skills, proving herself through results and actions. She also had to navigate cultural nuances, local regulations, and business practices in the Middle-Eastern market, adapting strategies to align with local preferences and sensitivities. Through strategic planning, resilience, collaboration, and continuous learning, Poonam successfully overcame these obstacles, making a significant impact in the media industry.

POONAM ON MENTORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS THROUGH IWBD

Poonam actively supports the next generation of leaders through her initiative, The International Women Board of Directors (IWBD). IWBD organizes mentorship programs where experienced leaders mentor young women, providing valuable insights, advice, and networking opportunities. They conduct workshops and seminars focused on leadership development, skill-building, and personal growth. By hosting networking events and collaborating with educational institutions, IWBD empowers young women to pursue careers in leadership roles. Poonam's dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment ensures that emerging leaders have the resources and encouragement they need to succeed.

Poonam Chawla
Poonam Chawla
Poonam Chawla
image.png
MY JOURNEY AS A LEADER HAS BEEN SHAPED BY EXPERIENCES, LEARNING FROM MISTAKES, SELF-REFLECTION, FEEDBACK, AND EMPATHY FOR OTHERS.

Poonam on becoming a better leader

INTERVIEW

EXPLORE OTHER LEADERS

women in leadership

Hala Akiki

Director, Marketing and Communication

Arthur D. Little

📍

Lebanon 🇱🇧

Arthur D. Little
women in leadership

Amr Salah Amin

Occupational Health, Safety, Social and Environment Head

Goldwind

📍

Egypt 🇪🇬

Goldwind
women in leadership

Marwah Nagati

Group Treasury Director

Energya Elsewedy Helal

📍

Egypt 🇪🇬

Energya Elsewedy Helal
bottom of page