Amal Al Marri, STEM Program Manager at ASPIRE shares her views on inclusivity, her professional journey and advice for aspiring women, 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?
Amal Al Marri: This year’s theme – Accelerate Action, is a reminder that progress requires more than just discussions; it demands commitment, accountability, and real opportunities. True diversity and inclusion go beyond policies; they must be woven into education, hiring, leadership, and workplace culture.
In Tech, AI, and STEM, inclusivity must be embedded at every level, from early education to leadership. At ASPIRE, we have seen how hands-on experiences like A2RL’s STEM competition spark confidence in young minds. The more we normalize women in emerging technologies, the faster we create lasting change.
Workplaces need to go beyond quotas and cultivate environments where diverse perspectives drive innovation. When young women see role models leading in AI, they start believing, ‘That could be me.’ That is how we accelerate change, not just for one generation but for those who follow. If we want to close the gender gap in tech, we must empower, upskill, and create visible pathways for future leaders.”
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Amal Al Marri: I have always been drawn to innovation and how technology has the power to solve real problems and shape the future. But what truly inspired me was seeing the gap between potential and opportunity, especially in AI and mobility.
My journey was not a straight path. I explored different fields, but I was always fascinated by how emerging technologies were transforming industries, especially the way we move, interact, and learn. The more I got involved, the more I realized that being part of this space was not just about keeping up with the future, it was about creating it.
Now, through my work at ASPIRE, I get to be at the intersection of technology, education, and impact. Leading STEM programs that give young talent, particularly young women, the chance to experiment with AI-driven mobility is not just a job, it is a responsibility. The UAE is positioning itself as a leader in autonomous systems and AI, and I want to ensure that we are building a future where everyone, regardless of gender, has a role to play in it.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you?
Amal Al Marri: My role model growing up was always my mother. My mother has been a working mom for 30 years and in her days, business management was as pivotal as today’s advancements in artificial intelligence. Despite being a young working mother without formal education in the field, she dedicated herself to mastering its principles. Her commitment led her to a leadership position where she made strategic decisions that significantly enhanced her division’s performance. Her journey is a true example of adaptability, continuous learning, and effective leadership and all thanks to the UAE, a nation without limits, that provides opportunities for all women and men to excel and grow.
After growing up, I found another exemplary figure who embodies my country’s commitment to women’s empowerment- Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy. I had the privilege of working at Expo Dubai 2020, which allowed me to gain deeper insights into her remarkable leadership. Her Excellency serves as a profound inspiration to me. Her multifaceted career exemplifies visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to national development, and a steadfast dedication to empowering future generations. Her journey embodies resilience, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. She not only envisions transformative projects but also brings them to fruition, inspiring me to lead with purpose, embrace challenges, and contribute to societal advancement.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be?
- It wouldn’t necessarily be dinner, but having the opportunity to meet Sultan Al Neyadi —Emirati astronaut and our Minister for Youth — would be an incredible honor. His journey from space exploration to youth empowerment resonates deeply with the work I do at ASPIRE. I’d love to hear his stories from space and explore how we can inspire the next generation of students to pursue careers in the space sector through innovative STEM initiatives.
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly?
- Flying
- Android or Apple?
- Apple
- WhatsApp or Telegram?
- Phone call or text message/email?
- Phone call
- Beaches or Mountains?
- Beaches
- Coffee or Tea?
- Coffee is my fuel!
- Early Bird or Night owl?
- Early bird
- Books or Movies?
- Movies
- Winter or Summer?
- Winter
- Online shopping or in-store shopping?
- Depends! (in-store shopping for things I need to sense such as perfumes, online shopping for standard items that I am used to)
What advice would you give to women starting off their careers, aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Amal Al Marri: Own your seat at the table. Tech, AI, and business are fields where the boldest ideas shape the future, and that means we need diverse perspectives more than ever.
First, stay curious. Technology evolves fast, and the most successful people are not necessarily the ones with the most experience, but the ones who never stop learning.
Second, surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you. Mentors, peers, and communities can make all the difference. No one builds success alone, and the right network can help you navigate obstacles and unlock new opportunities.
Finally, push boundaries. If there is not a clear path for you, create one. Every major innovation and every industry shift starts with someone daring to think differently. Your ideas, your perspective, and your leadership matter. Step forward and make them count.
