Curtin University Dubai hosted a special edition of its Executive Roundtable Series on 17 January 2026, bringing together industry leaders, academics, students, and professionals for a discussion on leadership, innovation, and the evolving future of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The roundtable provided a platform for attendees to engage directly with experienced professionals working across engineering, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, education, and emerging technologies.
Opening the event with a keynote address, Emine Yilmaz Bütün, CEO of AcceleratEMEA and ITT Nexus, challenged attendees to think about leadership, innovation, and navigating change in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.
This was followed by a panel discussion featuring:
- Professor Katarina Miljkovic OAM, Deputy Head of School, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University
- Chada El Islam Benmahcene, Founder and CEO, ENTROG Ventures
- Dalia Abi Mosleh, Director of Technology, Gartner
- Hailey Yoon, AI and Technology Advisor, Manara, and CTO, DevelopL
- Randa Hakim, Executive Construction Advisor and former GE and EY Executive
- Tasneem Fathima, Senior Solutions Architect, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Zeina Kordab, Cloud Solution Architect, Microsoft
Together, the speakers explored the skills and perspectives shaping successful careers in STEM, highlighting the importance of diverse thinking, adaptability, and continuous learning.
Drawing on their own experiences, they encouraged attendees to build strong technical foundations, embrace opportunities beyond their comfort zones, and approach challenges with confidence and curiosity.
The discussion also explored the role of mentorship, collaboration, and professional networks in creating more inclusive STEM industries. Speakers encouraged attendees to seek mentors while also creating opportunities to support others.
The program concluded with a fireside chat featuring Benedicte Hennebo, Founder of BCB Services, and Chada El Islam Benmahcene, who reflected on navigating career decisions, overcoming challenges, and embracing opportunities for growth through their personal and professional experiences.
For students and professionals alike, the Women in STEM Executive Roundtable reinforced that successful careers are built not only through technical expertise, but also through curiosity, adaptability, confidence, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
The Executive Roundtable Series continues to connect students and professionals with industry leaders, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, share experiences, and prepare for the future of work. Learn more about upcoming editions at curtindubai.ac.ae/executive-roundtables.
Written by Rifa Anwar, Class of 2026
