Louise Bou Rached, Director of Sales, Milestone Systems shares, diversity doesn’t happen by chance, it requires a continued focus and a supportive company culture
What are your views on this year’s IWD 2025 theme “Accelerate Action”, how can we truly achieve diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Louise Bou Rached: In the UAE, where we encounter a rich blend of cultures and perspectives, the theme “Accelerate Action” is very relevant. In my opinion, diversity doesn’t happen by chance, it requires a continued focus and a supportive company culture.
At Milestone, we understand that creating an inclusive workplace goes beyond merely checking boxes for gender or ethnic representation. It’s about recognizing that the best teams – and thus the best business outcomes – are based on mutual understanding and respect for one another. That’s something I strive to employ everyday as a leader.
Can you share your journey into the tech world and what inspired you to pursue this, where did it all start?
Louise Bou Rached: About 15 years ago, I took a significant step by expanding my role within a global company. I chose to focus on a product that was not one of the flagship offerings and aimed to expand its reach across Africa. This role was truly challenging, the learning curve was steep – and often uphill – and it pushed me to grow and adapt in ways I had never imagined.
The inspiration to take on a challenge like that and pursue this path came from my desire to explore new markets and drive innovation in areas that were often overlooked. And this is exactly the same factors that led me into the world of tech. The potential in technology to make a tangible impact on real-world challenges is a great motivator for me.
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)
Louise Bou Rached: In the early days of my career, I was fortunate to have a General Manager who acted as a mentor for me, offering me invaluable guidance and support – both professional and personal.
I still make use of these insights today as my guiding principles in many situations, and I would love to have the chance to meet again and reconnect over coffee and mutual memories and reflections – especially since becoming a leader myself.
In general, mentorships are another valuable strategy to promote diversity. I myself am good proof of that.
Rapid Fire (Let’s get to know you more)
- Dinner with a famous personality, who would it be? For a quiet dinner, Bill Gates, livelier probably Jensen Huang
- One skill you wish you could learn instantly? Cooking
- 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? Night Owl
- Books or Movies? Movies
- Winter or Summer? Summer
- Online shopping or in-store shopping? In-store
What advice would you give to women starting off their careers, and aspiring to enter the tech/business field?
Louise Bou Rached: Starting a career in tech or business can sometimes seem very daunting. It becomes much easier to steer through this industry if you develop essential leadership skills such as adaptability within changing environments and confidence in your tasks within the workplace. Being flexible and open to change helps you address challenges effectively and seize opportunities. Confidence is always key to asserting your ideas and stepping into leadership roles, particularly in male-dominated fields. It is always important to communicate openly and be clear in what you want to say, this helps your colleagues and seniors understand what you want to convey easily and effectively.
