How many hats are you wearing?
Ever wonder how enjoyable it is to wear multiple hats?
In my new role as board member, board advisor, and investor, I’ve found that the real magic lies in the intersections, where governance, capital, and entrepreneurial vision meet. I experienced this convergence firsthand recently, and it was energizing and rewarding in a different manner.
I am passionate about governance, and how companies, large or small, can benefit from a standarised way of doing business, an agile may of decision making that makes individuals responsible and accountable for their decisions while providing the right and sufficient information. In November 2025, I enjoyed this multiple hat situation, let me tell you more:
Governance for start-ups and VCs
At the Center for Governance | مركز الحوكمة two-day session, I had the opportunity to engage with VC-backed companies and connect global governance leaders, such as Evan Epstein, who brought Silicon Valley’s sharp lens on scaling with integrity. Having worked in the Silicon Valley and Saudi Arabia, I truly enjoyed bridging these worlds, translating global leading practices into locally grounded strategies.
KALIMATI: Local knowledge is essential to be successful, and even more in Saudi Arabia and across the GCC. What works elsewhere may not directly translate here.
2. Investor and InvestmentsLater that week, BibanGlobal brought this insight to life. In my previous role, I attended similar events many times, this time it was rewarding in a different way. As a board member and investor, I had the privilege of engaging in dynamic conversations with entrepreneurs and meaningful exchanges with government stakeholders. A heartfelt thank you to:
- the large investor team from the Ministry of Investment (MISA),
- the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology of Saudi Arabia,
- the mining team at the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources,
- ESNAD | إسـنـاد
for their efforts and interest for collaboration and of course to Sahar Al-zaaqi for introducing Nataj and being a caring Saudi host.
KALIMATI: The Kingdom is investing deeply in its people and institutions to welcome global partnerships and accelerate its transformation. Engage early, build trust, and align with local priorities, it’s the surest path to meaningful, long-term success.
Did you notice it again in the USSaudiForum2025 this week?
To great potential and growth opportunities. Let’s keep building bridges that matter,