By Yasmine Afifi – Inclusion, Diversity & Equity Ambassador Lead at Amazon Web Services (AWS) / Head of Legal MENAT
At Amazon Web Services, we are deeply committed to the transformative power of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in driving innovation and fostering inclusion across industries. As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the potential of GenAI to democratize access to powerful tools and platforms has never been more critical. This technology stands at the forefront of our efforts to enable organizations of all sizes, from startups to enterprises, to innovate, scale, and deliver meaningful solutions to their customers.
With GenAI reshaping our approach to problem-solving and creativity, we’re offering new ways to generate content, automate processes, and enhance decision-making. AWS’s role is pivotal in making these capabilities accessible, thereby leveling the playing field for businesses in the MENA and Turkey region to compete globally. Our commitment to scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud services empowers our customers to explore GenAI’s possibilities without significant upfront investments.
Central to our mission is the principle of inclusion. Ensuring that the benefits of technology are accessible to everyone, regardless of location, size, or industry, is crucial for AWS. Access to GenAI tools opens up new innovation avenues and ensures diverse perspectives in technology development, essential for creating solutions that reflect our global community’s needs.
The collaboration between AWS and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) via the Amazon Academy symbolizes a powerful alliance. This initiative aims to train over 30,000 Saudis and issue 35,000 certificates, embodying the collaboration between global tech firms and national visions like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Additionally, AWS’s introduction of Qudwatech and a year-long program in partnership with the Dubai Business Women Council (DBWC) signifies a crucial step towards supporting individuals at various stages of their technology careers. Qudwatech, a 12-week initiative, pairs participants with AWS mentors, creating a nurturing environment for professional growth. The DBWC collaboration further extends this support to mid- to senior-level technology professionals, offering comprehensive training and mentorship. Further enhancing our partnership, AWS is making available cloud and innovation workshops to over 700 DBWC members, empowering them with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the tech industry.
As we approach International Women’s Day, it’s essential to recognize these initiatives within the broader context of AWS’s dedication to advancing diversity and inclusion across all dimensions. This year, the theme “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress” resonates deeply with our mission. Investing in training and enablement programs like those offered through Qudwatech, DBWC, and Amazon Academy not only supports women’s progress in the tech field but also accelerates the pace of innovation and inclusion. By focusing on gender diversity and investing in the development of women in technology, we contribute to a more equitable and dynamic industry.
Looking forward, AWS is enthusiastic about GenAI’s role in stimulating economic growth, enhancing public services, and solving societal challenges in the MENA region. We are dedicated to collaborating with our customers and partners to unlock generative AI’s endless possibilities and craft a more inclusive, innovative future for all.
