Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi, Strategic Advisor at Alef Education, the first Emirati woman to earn a PhD in AI research, shares her views on diversity and inclusion, her role model and journey, in an exclusive chat with Techitup ME
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi: Real change requires action, not just conversation. To achieve true diversity and inclusion, organizations must go beyond surface-level initiatives and embed these values into every aspect of their culture—from leadership and hiring to policies and daily interactions. The 2025 International Women’s Day theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is a call to move beyond awareness and take measurable, results-driven steps to create workplaces where everyone has equal opportunities to grow and succeed.
True leadership in this space requires integrity, empathy, and action-oriented decision-making. To make a lasting impact, we must inspire and influence change at every level, ensuring that inclusivity is not just a value but a lived reality in our workplaces.
At Alef Education, we embody this theme by fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace. Our recognition as a ‘Great Place to Work’ reflects our commitment to providing equal opportunities, particularly for women, in leadership and professional development. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and career growth, we continue to cultivate a culture of innovation and excellence—one where every individual can realize their full potential.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi: Education is more than a profession for me—it is a mission to empower individuals and transform society. My passion for enhancing the UAE’s educational landscape began early, driven by a deep belief in the power of learning to create a knowledge-based future.
A pivotal moment in my journey was His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to Al Asayel School, where I was the first adopter of the Alef Platform. His inspiring words reinforced my commitment to integrating technology into education, ensuring meaningful impact in classrooms.
With over 27 years in the sector, I have led major initiatives, including the implementation of the Alef Platform in Abu Dhabi’s public schools. As the Director of the UAE National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science at UNESCO, I worked across public and private sectors to drive innovation. Recognized as one of the ‘51 Emirati Women Achievers’, I continue shaping the future of education as Strategic Advisor at Alef Education.
My doctoral research explored AI-powered learning platforms, aligning with my commitment to modernizing education. Through social media, I amplify conversations on leadership, AI, and education, striving to inspire the next generation of innovators.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you? (Does not really have to be from the professional world only, can be someone at home too )
Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi: My greatest inspiration is His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation’s progress drive me every day. His dedication to investing in people—empowering them with knowledge, opportunity, and purpose—resonates deeply with my own values in education and leadership.
His belief in the power of education as the foundation of a strong nation is particularly inspiring. He has consistently emphasized the critical role of women in shaping the UAE’s future, recognizing their contributions in leadership, diplomacy, and economic development. His vision for a knowledge-driven, prosperous UAE motivates me to push boundaries, foster innovation, and contribute to a more inclusive and empowered society.
The ‘Year of Community 2025’, under the theme ‘Hand in Hand,’ perfectly reflects the unity and shared responsibility that he champions. His leadership reminds me that real progress comes from collective efforts and a deep commitment to nation-building. As we look ahead, I remain dedicated to supporting this vision—ensuring that education continues to be a powerful tool in shaping the UAE’s future.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be?
- Elon Musk
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly?
- Investment Literacy
- Android or Apple? 😃
- Apple
- WhatsApp or Telegram?
- Phone call or text message/email?
- Beaches or Mountains?
- Beach
- Coffee or Tea?
- Tea
- Early Bird or Night owl?
- Early Bird
- Books or Movies?
- Books
- Winter or Summer?
- Winter
- Online shopping or in-store shopping?
- In Store Shopping
What advice would you give to women starting off their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi: I encourage women to believe in themselves, be resilient, and pursue lifelong learning. In addition, I motivate women to face obstacles head-on, understanding that every failure is an opportunity to improve. Success requires more than just skill; it also requires tenacity, flexibility, and a will to never stop learning.
Mentorship and a robust professional network of like-minded people who uplift and support each other are crucial. Being surrounded by a supportive, empowering environment can make all the difference because nobody ever succeeds alone. To ensure career growth, it is essential to reskill yourselves in order to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving world.
