The advertising industry in this region has plenty to shout about when it comes to gender diversity. We recently interviewed a number of female executives for our annual Women in Advertising issue and there were lots of positive comments about the progress being made.
But no-one will deny there is a lot more work to do in leveling the playing field. We will be publishing these interviews online at Campaign Middle East and in our September issue.
Yasmine Hussein, Business Director, Rufus MENA
Do you think the industry has become more inclusive?
The advertising industry is becoming more inclusive. In recent years, we have witnessed an increasing presence of women in leadership positions in the region, especially in markets like Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE.
And while we have seen efforts to drive gender equality within the workplace, it is essential to recognise that inclusivity goes beyond just gender equality and involves embracing diversity in terms of backgrounds, experiences and more.
And this requires consistent efforts in the workplace to foster an environment where everyone’s perspective is valued regardless of gender or background.
What advice would you give to women starting out in the industry?
Believe in yourself: have confidence in your skills and abilities and the value you bring to your team and peers.
Learn continuously: the industry is always evolving. Stay curious and keep learning about new trends and best practices.
Speak up: Share your ideas and opinions. And always remember that different perspectives lead to innovation.
Work-life balance: It is okay to set boundaries and prioritise self-care from time to time.
Support other women: lift other women and create a community within the industry to share examples and motivate one another.
What message would you like to give men in advertising?
Be an ally to your female colleagues and recognise the value they bring to the table. Take the time to learn from their experiences and insights. And work together to promote a culture of inclusivity and collaboration in the workplace.
What more can be done to support the growth of women in the industry?
Create communities for women to connect with female peers, mentors and industry leaders. These communities are essential for knowledge sharing and networking to support women in their career progression and to open wider opportunities for them in the industry.
What excites you about the industry?
The media and advertising industry is constantly changing. Technology is rapidly evolving, and consumer behaviours are continuously shifting.
This drives us to learn new skills and adopt new strategies to stay current with emerging trends. We are not just keeping up. By learning and testing new approaches, we are actively shaping the future of this dynamic industry.
In your lengthy career, what were the biggest challenges you faced?
Throughout my professional journey, I have been fortunate to work with both strong female and male leaders. Their support and encouragement have driven me to consistently deliver my best. In any career path, there are moments of success and setbacks.
However, it is important to approach each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. I have come to understand that embracing challenges with an open mind helps you grow stronger and more resilient.
