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Big Data Minds MENA, Amman, Jordan: Dr. Zaher Ali Al-Sai, Founder of Big Data Minds MENA

Company: Big Data Minds MENA, Amman - Jordan
Nomination Submitted by: Big Data Minds MENA and Arabian Women in Data Science (AWiDS)
Company Description: Big Data Minds MENA is a community-based organization founded in 2021 by Dr. Zaher Ali Al-Sai, focused on Big Data and data science in the MENA region. With a primary mission to build effective bridges and networks, this platform has various initiatives to build effective bridges and networks across and knowledge-sharing various emerging technology domains.
Nomination Category: Individual Professional Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Most Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year
2023 Stevie Winner Nomination Title: Dr. Zaher Ali Al-Sai, Amman - Jordan, Founder of Big Data Minds MENA & Arabian Women in Data Science & KiDS in Data Science
  1. Provide an essay of up to 625 words describing the innovative activities and achievements of the nominated individual since 1 July, 2021:

    Total 610 words used.

    Dr. Zaher Ali Al-Sai stands as a visionary figure whose trailblazing initiatives have significantly influenced the landscape of Big Data, Data Science, AI, Emerging Technologies, and Women's Empowerment. With a robust academic foundation and holding prestigious degrees in Computer Science, e-Government Technology, and a Ph.D. specializing in Big Data and Software Engineering, her transformative impact resonates across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

    As the founder of Big Data Minds MENA, established in 2021, Dr. Zaher spearheaded a multitude of initiatives dedicated to empowering women and children, fostering remarkable transformations across Jordan and the MENA region. 

    At the helm of her impactful initiatives is the Arabian Women in Data Science and AI (AWiDS-AI), an organization she established. Through over 60 meticulously curated workshops, events, and educational programs, Dr. Zaher empowered a thriving community of over 50,000 women. Notably, her initiatives witnessed a substantial 30% surge in female participation, creating an environment where women flourish and excel in technology fields. Furthering these endeavors, mentorship programs successfully facilitated the transition of over 500 women into data science careers, contributing significantly to a commendable 25% increase in female employment within Jordan's technology sectors. (see appendices)

    Dr. Zaher's unwavering commitment extends to nurturing young minds through her pioneering initiative, "KiDS in Data Science and AI" (KiDS), influencing over 3000 children aged 8-16. Rigorous evaluations revealed a remarkable 40% enhancement in problem-solving abilities among participating children. Testimonials from parents underscored a profound 50% increase in their children's interest in technology subjects after engaging in this impactful program. (see appendices)

    Her outstanding contributions have garnered prestigious accolades, including three Stevie Awards Middle East in 2023 and two Bronze Awards in the Stevie International Business Awards. These honors testify to her remarkable endeavors across multiple categories, including Technology Development - Non-Profit, Innovative Achievement in Science or Technology, and Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year. (see appendices)

    Dr. Zaher's global recognition soared as a top 5 finalist in the Women in Tech Global Awards 2021 and a top 20 finalist in 2022 by WomenTech Network. Her representation of Women in Data Science WiDS at Stanford University in Jordan and the orchestration of three impactful global WiDS conferences, inclusive of datathons and over 30 workshops and sessions, have been instrumental in propelling the advancement of Arabian women in technology and data science. Notably, Dr. Zaher has been recognized by WiDS Stanford as a High Impact Ambassador 2023, highlighting her substantial contribution and impact on her communities. (see appendices)

    Since 2021, Dr. Zaher has served as a pivotal WiDS, WomenTech, and Women in Analytics Ambassador, organizing and leading over 45 online, on-site, and Hybrid workshops and events across diverse regions in Jordan. These extensive engagements fostered a profound understanding of technology and data science among women, emphasizing empowerment and education.

    As a distinguished Founder Council member of the Artificial Intelligence and Entrepreneurship Association and Vice President of the Malaysian Universities Alumni Association in Jordan, Dr. Zaher remains resolute in her commitment to advancing technological communities.

    Furthermore, her visionary leadership fostered strategic collaborations with over 20 leading tech companies, laying the groundwork for 40 mentorship programs aimed at guiding aspiring women, girls, and children in technology. These strategic collaborations witnessed a commendable 25% surge in female employment within Jordan's tech sector, a testament to the effectiveness of these programs. (see appendices)

    Dr. Zaher Ali Al-Sai embodies visionary leadership, persistently innovating to empower individuals in the realms of technology and data science. Her steadfast commitment to inclusivity, education, and empowerment, irrespective of gender or geographical boundaries, makes her an exemplar and a deserving candidate for recognition and accolades, notably the esteemed "Most Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year" award.

Attachments/Videos/Links:
Dr. Zaher Ali Al-Sai, Amman - Jordan, Founder of Big Data Minds MENA & Arabian Women in Data Science & KiDS in Data Science
URL High Impact Ambassadors
URL WiDS Ambassador in Jordan Empowers Women in her Region Through a Datathon Workshop
URL Discussion Pannel of Arabian Women in Data Science and WiDS 2023
URL Arabian Women in Data Science and WiDS 2023_Jordan Conference and Workshops
URL Keynote speaker at Artificial Intelligence Conference
URL WiDS 2023- Media Interview
URL Big Data Minds MENA, Arabian WiDS, and WiDS Jordan Conference 2023
URL WomenTech Global Awards 2021
URL WomenTech Community Award_Global 2021 Top 20_Public Community Engagement Score
URL WomenTech Network Community Award of the Year 2021: Finalists
URL WomenTech Network Community Award of the Year 2022: Nomination
URL WomenTech Network Community Award of the Year 2022: Finalists
URL WomenTech Network Community Award of the Year 2022: Finalists
URL WomenTech Global Ambassadors
URL Stevie Award Blog_Big Data Minds MENA's Journey in Bridging the Knowledge Gap
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PDF AI_Association.pdf
PDF KiDS1.pdf