On International Women’s Day, I reflect on the journey that has shaped me—both professionally and personally. As an Egyptian, born and raised in Kuwait, and having lived in the UAE for the past 20 years, my path has been defined by perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to learning. Embracing diverse cultures and experiences has strengthened my ability to navigate change and thrive in dynamic environments. Over the past 17 years, my career in tech has reinforced my passion for innovation and its transformational power.
My journey in the tech industry began in 2008 when I joined Hewlett-Packard (HP), a company that became the foundation of my professional growth and where I witnessed firsthand the rapid evolution of technology and its profound impact on the world. More than a decade in regional channel marketing at HP fuelled me with invaluable opportunities to collaborate with various professionals, build strategic alliances, and hone essential leadership skills.
Recognizing the need for continuous growth, I recently earned a Diploma in Professional Marketing, underscoring my belief in ongoing learning and self-development. After an enriching 15 years at HP, where I was fortunate to learn from remarkable mentors and gain exposure to incredible experiences, I embarked on a new chapter with SentinelOne. This shift into cybersecurity introduced me to a different facet of technology, one that is equally fascinating and impactful. Building strong partnerships across the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa has enhanced my connection with the ecosystem and reinforced my enthusiasm for creating and executing meaningful, targeted marketing initiatives across the region
Beyond my career, I’m also proud to be a mother of two beautiful girls, who are my greatest source of inspiration. While they teach me so much about patience, resilience, and creativity they also remind me of the importance of balance. Women often juggle careers and personal responsibilities, making work-life balance essential, not optional. Prioritizing self-care allows us to perform at our best, both in our careers and as individuals. True success isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing what truly matters and aligns with our values.
As a leader in tech marketing and a mother, I aspire to inspire others to embrace lifelong learning and lead with authenticity, while maintaining the right balance. Growth happens when we challenge ourselves, trust in our capabilities, and prioritize both ambition and well-being. By doing so and supporting one another, we create a ripple effect of empowerment for future generations.
I am incredibly grateful for all the women who have mentored, supported, and guided me throughout my journey.
About the Contributor – Mary is a results-driven Channel Marketing Manager with 20 years of experience, specializing in IT channel business. She excels in strategic marketing, partner enablement, budget optimization, and multi-regional campaign execution. Adept at building alliances with major tech brands, she leads high-impact initiatives to drive growth and brand visibility.
This contribution is under the International Women’s Day initiative #SheIsInfinite.
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