What does it take to shape the startup ecosystem from the inside out?
Arwa’s story is a powerful example of how passion, flexibility, and strategic vision can come together to create meaningful impact. From launching her own business to leading some of the region’s top innovation programs, Arwa has built a career centered on empowering entrepreneurs and designing programs that drive real growth.
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Meet the Speaker – Arwa Shafi
Arwa Shafi is an IE University alumna with a Master’s in Marketing & Communication. She began her career as a business founder in 2013 before transitioning into designing and leading entrepreneurship support programs. Arwa has worked on over a dozen initiatives—including 9/10th Accelerator, STEAM Innovation Challenge, Revelate Corporate Innovation, TAQADAM Accelerator, and The Garage—each aimed at supporting entrepreneurs from ideation to scale.
Now Vice President of Programs at The Garage, Arwa is also a member of the Oqal Angel Network and a founding member of the Saudi Women Leaders Network. Known for her sharp insight and inspiring presence as a mentor, storyteller, and master of ceremonies, Arwa’s journey shows how a passion-led, adaptable path can fuel a standout career in innovation.
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ABOUT THE SERIES
GET INSPIRED, GET CONNECTED, MAKE AN IMPACT: A Series on Strategy, Innovation & Leadership in MENA
This episode is part of Get Inspired, Get Connected, Make an Impact — a curated series on Strategy, Innovation & Leadership in MENA. The series features trailblazing professionals from the MENA region who have stepped beyond the expected to redefine what success looks like. From Wall Street to the Dubai Financial Market, from global leadership firms to purpose-driven entrepreneurship—these are stories of transformation, courage, and high-impact leadership.
In this episode, we meet Arwa, whose journey blends entrepreneurship with a deep commitment to impact through program design and innovation.
