Muna AbuSulayman is a prominent figure in the world of philanthropy and international development, with an illustrious career spanning over 25 years. With a diverse background and a passion for empowering untapped talent, she has made significant contributions to various sectors, leaving a lasting impact on the global community.As a partner at Transform VC, AbuSulayman focuses on identifying and supporting untapped talent, recognizing the potential for transformation and progress in these individuals. Her expertise and insight play a pivotal role in guiding this venture capital firm’s investments and initiatives.In 2020, Muna AbuSulayman joined Gucci’s Global Equity Board as an adviser to the CEO, further showcasing her influence and expertise in the corporate world. As a member of this board, she plays a crucial role in advising on matters related to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the luxury fashion brand.Apart from her contributions to the corporate landscape, AbuSulayman is a serial entrepreneur, having co-founded several tech companies that aim to revolutionize various industries. One such venture is Healthkey Tech, founded in Luxembourg in 2020. Healthkey Tech’s groundbreaking blockchain Health Passport app and medical verification network have enabled safe travel and facilitated events worldwide amid the challenges posed by the pandemic.Her entrepreneurial journey also includes co-founding the Arabic Digital Research Institute in 2018, based in New Zealand and Bahrain. Serving as the lead investor until 2022, AbuSulayman spearheaded the effective implementation and distribution of artificial intelligence and machine learning in translating and publishing academic Arabic content.In 2017, she launched Niya, a phone application with a unique embedded Arabic social media engagement interface. The app aims to support corporate social responsibility (CSR) fundraising, demonstrating her commitment to leveraging technology for social impact.AbuSulayman’s impressive career trajectory includes her role as a co-founder of Meedan Labs, where she collaborated with a global team of technologists to enhance internet tools that bridge ideas across different language communities.Recognizing her ability to effect positive change on a broader scale, she served as an adviser at Misk Foundation from 2017 to 2019. In this capacity, she played a key role in restructuring, transforming, relaunching, and guiding the nonprofit foundation, focused on cultivating learning and leadership in youth.Her expertise in philanthropy has made her a sought-after adviser to global philanthropists and foundations since 2011. Her profound understanding of development challenges and opportunities has guided strategic initiatives that have created lasting impacts worldwide.Before delving into entrepreneurship and advisory roles, Muna AbuSulayman was known for her groundbreaking work in media. In 2001, she founded and co-hosted the highly popular MBC TV show “Kalam Nawaem,” a female-led roundtable discussion platform that became a cultural phenomenon. The show provided a platform for open dialogue on various issues and empowered women by amplifying their voices.AbuSulayman’s philanthropic journey reached a pinnacle during her tenure as the secretary-general at Alwaleed Philanthropies until 2011. In this role, she oversaw grant-making processes and managed public- and private-sector partnerships. With a charitable initiatives portfolio exceeding $1 billion, she directed the foundation’s efforts in economic and community development, women’s empowerment, interfaith dialogue, and natural disaster aid. Her visionary leadership shaped the philanthropic landscape and transformed countless lives.Educationally, Muna AbuSulayman holds both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from George Mason University in Virginia, USA. Her passion for social impact and leadership has earned her recognition as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and a Yale University Fellow.Through her multifaceted career, Muna AbuSulayman has exemplified how philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and innovation can intersect to create a better world. Her commitment to empowering the underserved, leveraging technology for positive change, and promoting diversity and inclusion has made her a trailblazer in her field. As she continues to bridge divides and unlock human potential, AbuSulayman’s legacy as a visionary philanthropist and entrepreneur remains firmly cemented in the hearts of those she has touched.
Muna AbuSulayman: A Visionary Philanthropist and Entrepreneur Bridging Divides
