Nezha Alaoui, the Founder and CEO of Women Choice, says success is about more than talent, it’s about strategy, resilience, and surrounding yourself with people who uplift you

Can you share your journey into the business world? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
My journey into the world of entrepreneurship was deeply personal and purpose-driven. I didn’t wait for a seat at the table, I built my own. My entrepreneurial journey started as a social entrepreneur, driven by the need of creating concrete economic opportunities for women in the Arab World. Through Women Choice, I have worked with global corporations and government entities to develop and execute programs that aimed at uplifting women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and in financial literacy.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced and continue to face is breaking through deeply rooted biases. Women often have to prove themselves twice as much for half the credit. Early in my career, I would walk into rooms where I was not taken seriously. The way I overcame this was through consistency and results. I focused on building credibility, developing strategic partnerships with global corporations, and scaling Women Choice’s impact. When people take note of real results like 15,000 women executives and entrepreneurs engaged globally, or programs creating thousands of opportunities they tend to start listening. That’s when you realise the real change is happening.

How do you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over time?
My leadership style is collaborative and impact-driven. At my core I believe in leading with purpose, creating opportunities for others. Over time, I have evolved into a leader who focuses on scalability and sustainability ensuring that the programs I develop, from ImpactHER to Tamakani Hub, create long-term change. The world has been rapidly evolving, and leaders must be agile. Whether it is incorporating digital strategies, expanding to new markets, or changing our approach, I always keep innovation at the forefront.

What strategies do you use to motivate and empower your team?
Empowerment commences with trust and mentorship. I do not favour the concept of micromanaging. I believe in giving my team the autonomy to take charge of their roles while providing them with right guidance. When people feel ownership, they bring their best ideas forward. Another key strategy is investing in people. Either through leadership training, mentorship programs, or networking opportunities, I make sure that my team has access to growth opportunities. When people feel valued and see a path forward, they stay engaged and motivated.

Have you had any mentors or role models who have significantly influenced your career? How did they impact your journey?
One of my biggest influences was observing and understanding the power of women-led networks. Seeing how communities of women supporting each other could drive real change inspired me to build Women Choice into an ecosystem that connects policymakers, corporate leaders, and entrepreneurs. Adding to it, I have also been inspired by women who broke barriers before me, leaders in business, advocacy, and governance who showed that resilience and vision can transform industries with the right vision.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the business world/technology world/security world?
Own your space, build strong networks, and master financial literacy. Success is about more than talent, it’s about strategy, resilience, and surrounding yourself with people who uplift you.

Can you highlight some of your proudest achievements in your career so far?
There are many milestones, that I am proud of but a few standout:

1. Building Women Choice into a global movement that has engaged over 15,000 women leaders and entrepreneurs and impacted millions digitally.
2. Being featured in Mastercard’s Legacy Book as one of the 25 Women Visionaries globally.
3. Receiving multiple international recognitions, including being ranked Top 2 in the Top 100 Leaders & Entrepreneurs by Favikon, and winning the Inspirational Women Leader Award by Tahwultech.
4. Creating high-impact programs that empower women in leadership, real estate, entrepreneurship, and social innovation.
5. Writing my book, “Be a Leader,” to share insights on leadership and inspire more women to step into their power.

How do you manage work-life balance, and what tips do you have for other women striving to achieve this balance?
Balance isn’t about doing everything, it’s about doing the right things well. As someone leading an international organization as well as managing a global network, my schedule is demanding, but I’ve learned to be intentional about where I invest my time. I focus on high-impact priorities, energy management, and setting boundaries. Work-life balance is a myth unless you define it on your own terms.