Fatma Ashkanani, Chief Corporate Officer at Khazna Data Centers shares, companies with diverse executive teams are 36% more likely to outperform other companies in profitability
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Fatma Ashkanani: The theme “Accelerate Action” is a call to move beyond conversation and drive real change in diversity and inclusion. Creating a truly diverse and inclusive workplace isn’t a checkbox – it’s a business imperative that fuels innovation and strengthens companies from the inside out. According to a recent McKinsey study, companies with diverse executive teams are 36% more likely to outperform other companies in profitability. Evidently, this demands intent, proactive policies, mentorship, and accountability at every level of leadership, from the C-suite to the frontlines. It is about setting measurable goals, guiding future leaders, and creating a culture where diverse perspectives are highly valued, and teams are encouraged and empowered to lead without limits. When all these factors come together, they create a workplace where diversity and inclusivity isn’t just an initiative but a force for resilience and sustained success.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Fatma Ashkanani: My journey into the tech world wasn’t a conventional one, but it was driven by a deep passion for innovation and strategic growth. It all started with my time at Mubadala Investment Company, where I worked across aerospace and ICT, gaining a deep appreciation for how technology drives economic transformation. When I joined Khazna Data Centers in 2016, I saw an opportunity to contribute to the UAE’s digital evolution – one that is not only driven by technology but also by the empowerment of diverse talent.
In the UAE, we are fortunate to be a part of a nation that actively promotes diversity and inclusion. Opportunities are not limited by gender but enabled by ambition and supported by forward-thinking policies. Across industries, women are stepping into leadership roles. At Khazna, we embrace this mindset, ensuring that the digital economy is built by diverse voices and driven by inclusive growth.
For example, through initiatives like the Khazna Ambassador Program and Emirati Graduate Program, we’re not just building a workforce, but shaping future industry leaders within the data center industry. I hope my journey inspires more women to take risks, embrace innovation, and lead the future of tech in the UAE.
Who would you consider your role model, someone who constantly inspires you?
Fatma Ashkanani: I don’t have one specific role model; I find inspiration in the people around me, whether that’s family, colleagues, or friends. Each of them has qualities I admire, such as resilience, integrity, and the ability to navigate challenges with confidence. I believe learning from multiple people helps shape us into better leaders and individuals.
That said, one person who constantly inspires me is a close friend. Despite being my age, her determination, grace under pressure, and the way she handles challenges is something I truly respect. I believe leadership isn’t about age or position but about mindset, integrity, impact and the ability to uplift others, and I strive to learn from those around me every day.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be? H. H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? Fluent multilingual communication
- Android or Apple? Apple
- WhatsApp or Telegram? WhatsApp
- Phone call or text message/email? Phone call
- Beaches or Mountains? Beaches
- Coffee or Tea? Coffee
- Early Bird or Night owl? Early bird
- Books or Movies? Movies
- 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?
Fatma Ashkanani: My advice to women starting their careers in tech or business is to stay bold, stay focused, and never underestimate your potential. The technology industry may be historically male-dominated, but that only means there’s tremendous opportunity for women to make an impact.
Success comes from continuous learning, creative thinking, and strong networks, so take calculated risks and push yourself to grow. But success isn’t just about personal ambition, it’s also about building a strong support system. Strong relationships aren’t just valuable for career progression, they’re essential for leadership. Studies show that structured mentorship programs significantly enhance women’s leadership skills and confidence, helping them overcome challenges.
That’s why Khazna invests in mentorship and career development, ensuring that professional growth isn’t just an individual pursuit but a collective effort. Most importantly, support other women as you climb, because when we lift each other up, we drive real and lasting change.
