Success might be gender neutral, but when it comes to the path to success, some genders sure have a long, winding way. Their road to success is not dependent on their strength, dreams, intellect, and them alone. It is dependent on the societal barriers they face, the stereotypes they must break, and the extra effort they need to put in to be taken seriously.

Women, in particular, often grapple with the added layers of gender bias, limited opportunities, and systemic inequalities that permeate various industries. Their achievements are not only personal victories but also a challenge to the status quo, proving time and time again that gender should never be a barrier to success. Despite these hurdles, many women continue to rise and thrive, showcasing resilience, innovation, and leadership that deserve to be celebrated and acknowledged.

One such inspiring woman who has shattered numerous glass ceilings is Dr. Ishha Farha Quraishy.

A dynamic and accomplished individual, Dr. Quraishy is a technopreneur specializing in the  Ai an international inspirational speaker, and the only celebrity tech Speaker in the field. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming Mrs. Universe 2019 and a successful tech entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience and determination. Dr. Quraishy has made significant contributions to the UAE through her versatile skills, talents, and intellect, and continues to inspire and influence both women and corporations.

The Inspiring Journey

Dr. Quraishy’s journey from a challenging childhood to becoming Mrs. Universe 2019 and a successful tech entrepreneur has been not  easy. Life was never a cakewalk, and she strongly believes that success comes through hard work and perseverance. Growing up, she faced numerous obstacles, including opposition from narrow-minded people around her. However, her parents were progressive thinkers who always wanted to see her succeed. They instilled in her the belief that being a woman is not a weakness but a blessing.

Dr. Quraishy’s path to Mrs. Universe was a journey in itself, filled with tough and painful experiences until she reached there. She was determined to make her mark and became the first candidate from the Middle East to represent at the Universe Pageant. Competing alongside fellow contestants from 92 countries gave her a sense of confidence and helped her validate her place on the global platform as a woman. It was an amazing experience that gave her a voice and an identity.

Despite her success in pageantry, technology has always been her first love. Dr. Quraishy’s passion for technology and innovation has driven her to climb the tech ladder. She has always aimed to be part of a successful community with tech giants, which led her to build her career in technology. She has worked with tier 1 companies and eventually became a tech entrepreneur, founding tech companies in the past and focusing on new innovative drives.

Raised by a single mother, Dr. Quraishy took on family responsibilities from a young age. She started her career 15 years back in Infosys and balanced her job with university studies, often sleeping only an hour a day. Her dedication paid off as she excelled academically and professionally. She completed her Master’s, and later doctorate while working night shifts and pursued additional diplomas, Research, and certifications. All while at a full-time job and full-time University.

“Managing both my crown, a symbol of dignity, and my technology skills, a symbol of my intelligence, has always kept me unique. As a tech entrepreneur, I specialize in Metaverse, AI, and Web 3.0 innovation. I have served as a global ambassador for multiple tech organizations and have been involved in numerous initiatives to empower women and support inclusive education. My journey has been marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” says Dr. Quraishy.

Trekking the Technology Path

Dr. Quraishy’s inspiration to pursue a career in technology, particularly in AI and the Metaverse, stems from her deep-rooted passion for innovation and problem-solving. From a young age, she was fascinated by how technology could transform lives and create new possibilities. The rapid advancements in AI and the Metaverse captivated her, as they represent the frontier of technological evolution and have the potential to revolutionize various industries.

In the earlier stages of her career, Dr. Quraishy worked with VMware, HP, Dell EMC, Wipro Technologies, and Finesse. This experience allowed her to build her journey as a tech enthusiast before transitioning into a businesswoman. She handled data center and infrastructure projects and later pursued her path toward cloud technology. These roles provided her with a solid foundation in the tech industry and honed her technical skills.

Dr. Quraishy also had the great opportunity to work with an EdTech platform while she was with GEMS Education. This experience ignited her passion for AI and education, as she saw first-hand how technology could enhance learning experiences and make education more accessible.

Dr. Quraishy’s journey in technology has been driven by a desire to push boundaries, explore uncharted territories, and make a meaningful impact. AI’s ability to mimic human intelligence and the Metaverse’s promise of creating immersive virtual worlds intrigued her. She saw an opportunity to be at the forefront of these groundbreaking fields, contributing to their development and leveraging their potential to solve real-world problems.

A collaborative, innovative, and resilient tech leader, Dr. Quraishy thrives in environments that encourage teamwork and creativity and are always eager to learn and adapt. Her resilience helps her navigate challenges and stay focused on achieving her goals, no matter how difficult the path may be.

She believes in a supportive ecosystem and understands that success is a collective effort.

“We cannot win alone, but together, we can achieve great things. My trusted partnerships and ecosystem stay with me no matter where I go or how I progress in my journey. Trust and relationships are the biggest assets in life, and my principles and working style are strongly rooted in these values,” she says.

Battling Barriers

Throughout her career, Dr. Quraishy has faced a variety of challenges that have tested her resilience and adaptability. One of the most significant challenges was breaking into the tech industry as a woman from the Middle East. Overcoming stereotypes and biases required her to consistently prove her capabilities and assert her presence in a predominantly male-dominated field. Transitioning between different technologies demanded a steep learning curve and the ability to stay ahead of technological advancements.

As she moved into the role of a tech entrepreneur, Dr. Quraishy faced the challenge of building and scaling tech companies. This involved navigating the complexities of securing funding, managing resources, and leading a diverse team. Each of these aspects required strategic thinking, effective emotional balance, and a relentless drive to succeed.

When Dr. Quraishy discovered that there were very few female entrepreneurs, especially in technology, it became another focused journey to stay ahead in the industry. She had to put in ten times the effort to find her path, a challenge that many tech entrepreneurs face. This realization motivated her to work even harder and carve out her niche in the tech world. Balancing her responsibilities as a technology leader and her role in the social sector required meticulous time management and a clear vision.

To stay motivated and resilient in the face of obstacles and setbacks, Dr. Quraishy relies on a few key strategies. Firstly, she maintains a strong support network of mentors, colleagues, and friends who provide guidance and encouragement. Their insights and support are invaluable during challenging times.

Secondly, she focuses on continuous learning and personal growth. Embracing a growth mindset allows her to view challenges as opportunities for development rather than setbacks. This perspective helps her stay positive and motivated, even when faced with difficulties.

Lastly, Dr. Quraishy’s passion for technology and innovation, art, and philanthropy always complimented each other and is a constant source of motivation. The desire to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the advancement of Humankind drives her to push through obstacles and stay committed to her goals.

Multifaceted Engagements

Balancing her roles as an entrepreneur, tech expert, and philanthropist requires a strategic approach and a deep commitment to each area. Here’s how Dr. Quraishy manages to juggle these responsibilities:

She believes in giving 100% to everything she does. Whether she is at work, participating in a public forum, or engaging in humanitarian tasks, she ensures that she is fully present and focused. The multiple hats she wears have always complemented each other, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to each role.

To manage her time effectively, Dr. Quraishy uses the Urgent-Important Matrix, dividing her tasks into four quadrants:

• Urgent and Important: Tasks that require immediate attention and have significant consequences.
• Important but Not Urgent: Tasks that are crucial for long-term success but do not require immediate action.
• Urgent but Not Important: Tasks that need to be done quickly but do not significantly impact my goals.
• Not Urgent and Not Important: Tasks that have little impact and can be minimized or delegated.

This approach helps her prioritize her activities and ensure that Dr. Quraishy is making progress in all areas of her life.

AI and its Impact

Dr. Quraishy believes that AI is going to become a default element in everything that we buy, use, or experience. It will be an integral part of our daily lives, seamlessly integrated into various aspects of our routines. She also rephrases the term Metaverse into Spatial AI, which is a combination of spatial

computing and AI. Here’s how she sees the future of Spatial AI evolving and its impact on society:

Evolution of Spatial AI:

• Enhanced User Experiences: Spatial AI will play a crucial role in creating more immersive and personalized experiences. By analyzing user behavior and preferences, AI can tailor virtual environments to meet individual needs, making interactions more engaging and meaningful.
• Intelligent Virtual Assistants: AI-powered virtual assistants within Spatial AI environments will become more sophisticated, providing users with seamless support and enhancing their productivity. These assistants will be capable of understanding complex commands and performing tasks autonomously.
• Realistic Simulations: Spatial AI will enable the creation of highly realistic simulations, blurring the lines between the virtual and physical worlds. This will open up new possibilities for training, education, and entertainment.
• Interconnected Virtual Worlds: Spatial AI will evolve into a network of interconnected virtual worlds, where users can seamlessly transition between different environments. AI will facilitate this by managing vast amounts of data and ensuring smooth interactions.

Impact on Society:

• Education and Training: Spatial AI will transform education by providing immersive learning experiences. Students will be able to explore historical events, conduct virtual experiments, and collaborate with peers from around the world in real time.
• Healthcare: AI will revolutionize healthcare by enabling remote consultations, virtual surgeries, and personalized treatment plans. Patients will have easier access to medical expertise, regardless of their geographical location.
• Social Interaction: Spatial AI will offer new ways for people to connect and interact, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Virtual events, social gatherings, and collaborative projects will become more accessible and inclusive.
• Economic Opportunities: The integration of AI in Spatial AI environments will create new economic opportunities, from virtual real estate to digital goods and services. This will drive innovation and open up new markets for businesses and entrepreneurs.
• Ethical Considerations: As Spatial AI becomes more integrated into our lives, it will be essential to address ethical considerations such as data privacy, security, and digital equity. Ensuring that these technologies are developed and used responsibly will be crucial for their positive impact on society.

“However, it’s important to note that while AI will dominate for a while, it might subside in a few years as quantum computing starts to take over more attention. Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize technology even further, bringing new capabilities and advancements that we can only begin to imagine. By embracing these technologies and addressing their challenges, we can create a more connected, innovative, and inclusive world,” says Dr. Quraishy.

A Rewarding Life

Dr. Quraishy’s personal and professional achievements are intertwined, as her work as a philanthropist is driven by her expertise in technology. She strives to use technology to uplift humankind, making a meaningful impact on society. This commitment has earned her several awards and recognitions, including being named a Global Woman Icon, one of the Top 50 Inspiring Women of the UAE, a Women icon making waves in the Arab world, and receiving recognition from Forbes for where tech brilliance meets beauty grace.

Personally, the most rewarding aspect for Dr. Quraishy is the sense of purpose and fulfillment she derives from her work. Knowing that she is making a positive impact on society, whether through technological innovation or philanthropic efforts, gives her life meaning and direction. Her involvement in initiatives that support education, women’s empowerment, and inclusive development allows her to give back to the community and contribute to causes she deeply cares about.

One of her proudest achievements is launching a global mission to make education accessible, available, and affordable for every child. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and aims to bridge the gap for the 60 million children without access to education. Dr. Quraishy is also deeply committed to supporting children of determination and developing technology solutions to enhance their learning experiences and empower them. She is also honored to work closely with the United Nations on sustainable development goals, including driving Financial inclusion for vulnerable segments.

“My work in Africa through the HOPE (Health, Opportunity, People, and Education) initiative is another significant aspect of my philanthropic efforts. This program focuses on improving healthcare, creating

opportunities, and providing education to underserved communities,” shares Dr. Quraishy.

Professionally, one of the most fulfilling aspects for her is the opportunity to innovate and drive technological advancements. Working at the forefront of AI and Spatial AI allows her to contribute to groundbreaking projects that have the potential to transform industries and improve lives. Seeing the tangible results of her efforts, whether it’s through successful product launches or positive feedback from users, is incredibly gratifying for Dr. Quraishy.

Another rewarding aspect for her is the ability to mentor and inspire others. As a tech entrepreneur and leader, Dr. Quraishy has the privilege of guiding talented individuals and helping them realize their potential. Watching her team members grow, succeed, and achieve their goals brings her immense satisfaction. Additionally, being a role model for women in technology and entrepreneurship is a responsibility she cherishes.

For a Diverse Workforce

Encouraging diversity and inclusion in the workplace feels Dr. Quraishy, is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. Her personal journey has been shaped by overcoming biases and breaking barriers. This has instilled in her a deep commitment to advocating for diversity and inclusion. She actively mentors and supports women and underrepresented groups in technology, helping them navigate their careers and achieve their goals. She has several initiatives under her:

• Women in Tech Drive: Dr. Quraishy is particularly passionate about empowering women in technology. Technology offers flexible and well-suited opportunities for women who manage multiple roles, including motherhood. However, women are still underrepresented in the tech industry. As of 2023, women comprise only about 25% of the tech workforce, and only 14% hold leadership positions.

Encouraging women to pursue careers in technology and supporting their advancement into leadership roles is crucial. This includes advocating for more women on directory boards and leadership decision committees, as diverse leadership teams are more likely to drive innovation and success.

• BeyondDetermined Project: One of her key initiatives is the Beyond Determined project, which focuses on creating a Center for Excellence for people of determination. The main motive is to empower differently-abled children and adults by helping them acquire the skills needed to secure jobs and earn a living. This project is close to her heart as it aligns with Dr. Quraishy’s vision of using technology and innovation to uplift and support marginalized communities.
• HOPE Africa Initiative: Her work in Africa through the HOPE (Health, Opportunity, People, and Education) initiative aims to provide more employment opportunities for children and young adults in Africa. This program also focuses on creating opportunities and providing education to underserved communities. Dr. Quraishy believes in developing skill-based training institutions to train the next generation in technology, empowering them to have more inclusive workspaces and better employment prospects.

Dr. Quraishy firmly believes that a diverse workforce fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. When people from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences come together, they bring unique viewpoints that can lead to more effective and innovative solutions. This diversity of thought is crucial in the rapidly evolving fields of technology and business.

“Encouraging diversity and inclusion is an ongoing effort that requires continuous commitment and action. It involves implementing policies and practices that promote equity, providing training and development programs, and holding ourselves accountable for progress. By doing so, we can create workplaces that are not only diverse and inclusive but also thriving and dynamic,” she says.

Staying Mindful and Motivated

Coping with stress and maintaining well-being as a busy professional requires a balanced approach and a commitment to self-care. As a certified pranic healer, Dr. Quraishy is deeply into spiritualism and meditation. She deals with stress day in and day out, but focusing on her aura and not letting external factors drain her is very important. This mindset helps her maintain her inner peace and resilience.

“I practice a healthy lifestyle and regular workouts, karate, and a morning routine that starts with healthy shots of juices. I also have a bedtime skincare routine. A healthy mind and body give me better focus and energy to tackle my daily responsibilities,” she says.

It is also equally important for Dr. Quraishy to take time to reflect on her achievements and progress which helps her stay motivated. She feels, that many times during one’s low time it boosts one instantly. Celebrating small wins and acknowledging the impact of her work reinforces her sense of purpose and drives her to keep moving forward.

Effective time management is key to balancing her various roles and keeps her productive. What she lacks, is sometimes, establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life. “I try my best to make it a point to disconnect from work during my personal time, but sometimes you end up compromising. Having a strong support system is invaluable to my family, friends, and mentors. I rely on the encouragement and advice of my loved ones. Their support helps me navigate challenges and stay resilient,” she divulges.

Engaging in hobbies also keeps her well. She loves dancing, singing, painting, and acting and these interests outside of work provide a creative outlet and help her relax.  By integrating these practices into her daily life, Dr. Quraishy is able to cope with stress and maintain her well-being, ensuring that she can continue to perform at her best both professionally and personally.

Being a Competent Leader

“There are two kinds of people in the world: leaders and followers. Leaders set themselves as examples for the rest of the world, and followers look up to them. However, a real leader is someone who converts a follower into another leader. This transformation is the hallmark of true leadership,” says Dr. Quraishy.

She feels that most of the leaders today have all the good abilities like strategic vision, decision-making capabilities, and skill sets. However, what makes them different today is based on their Open and Scalable Mindset when it comes to the tech industry. The tech industry is constantly evolving, and leaders must be adaptable to change. Being open to new ideas, embracing innovation, and quickly pivoting when necessary are vital traits. This mindset allows leaders to embrace change, adapt to new circumstances, and continuously grow. By being open to new ideas and scalable solutions, leaders can drive positive changes not only within themselves but also in their business and their approach to business.

Message for Young Women

The tech industry currently has only about 26.7% of women in tech-related jobs, which is a crucial number when we consider that 70% of students in schools and universities are girls. The lack of empowerment and female leaders directly affects economic growth and innovation.

According to Dr. Quraishy, leadership education should start from home, with the parents. She feels that mothers play a crucial role in shaping their daughters’ aspirations and confidence.” Encourage your daughters to dream big, support their interests in STEM fields, and provide them with opportunities to explore and learn. Teach them the value of resilience, hard work, and self-belief. By fostering a supportive and empowering environment at home, parents can lay the foundation for their daughters to become future leaders,” she says.

To business leaders across the globe, she says, “Women bring unique perspectives and strengths to the table, such as empathy, collaboration, and creativity. Leverage these strengths to drive innovation and make a positive impact on your work. Be a champion for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Encourage and support other women in tech, and work towards creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. Don’t shy away from leadership opportunities. Women in leadership positions can drive significant change and inspire others. Aim to be a leader who empowers and uplifts others.”

The Vision: For Self and Industry

Dr. Quraishy opines that the pace of technological change is both a blessing and a challenge. Keeping up with the latest advancements requires continuous learning and adaptation. The exponential growth of AI requires enormous computational power, which the current infrastructure struggles to accommodate. Investing in advanced computing technologies, such as specialized AI chips and quantum computing, can help meet the growing demands. Additionally, optimizing existing infrastructure and exploring decentralized computing models can alleviate some of the pressure.

“There is often a mismatch between the skills required by the industry and those possessed by the workforce. This skill gap can hinder productivity and innovation. Collaboration between educational institutions and industry leaders is vital to align curricula with industry needs. Offering internships, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training can also help bridge the skill gap,” she suggests.

A lack of digital literacy can hinder the effective use of digital tools and technologies, limiting productivity and innovation. Promoting digital literacy is crucial. This involves not only teaching technical skills but also fostering an understanding of how to critically evaluate and use digital information.

Dr. Quraishy envisions a future where technology and human ingenuity come together to create a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable world. Over the next five years, her goals are centered around driving progress in our industry, fostering digital literacy, and promoting ethical AI.

“I would also be focusing on access to digital education and the opportunity to participate fully in the digital economy. This includes integrating digital literacy into educational curricula and professional development programs,” she concludes.