illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Gulf Business or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The tech and construction sectors are recognizing the critical role of diversity in driving innovation and business success
• Initiatives, particularly in the GCC countries, are beginning to pave the way for increased female representation in senior and leadership roles, challenging long-standing cultural and societal norms

🔭 The context: Despite the progress, women still face significant barriers to entering and advancing within traditionally male-dominated fields like technology and construction
• A 2023 McKinsey & Co. report highlights the promotion disparity between men and women in tech roles, emphasizing the need for more inclusive workplace cultures

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Diverse teams have been proven to be more innovative, perform better, and are crucial for adapting to changing business landscapes
• In the construction and technology sectors, diversity brings varied perspectives and experiences, leading to more effective problem-solving and decision-making

⏭️ What's next: Governmental and private sector initiatives in the GCC, such as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's Gender Balance Council, are important steps towards gender equality in STEM fields
• However, achieving real change requires a concerted effort from all societal segments, including businesses, governments, and individuals

💬 One quote: "As leaders in the construction and technology sectors, we have a responsibility to create inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive," says Ishita Sood, co-founder and COO of WakeCap.

📈 One stat: According to McKinsey's Diversity Matters report, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15% more likely to outperform their national industry medians financially.

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