15 minutes with Mona Ataya

1. Craft your core message (2-3 mins). Clearly define your value proposition - what problem you are solving, for whom, and why your solution is unique.

2. Outline your key points:

   • The problem and its significance

   • The solution and how it works

   • The target market

   • The business model and revenue streams

   • Your traction to date of proof of concept

   • Your ask (funding, partnerships, support etc)

3. Highlight your Unique Advantage 92-3 mins) : Identify what differentiates you from competitors - your unique value, tech , team or market insughts

4. Practice a quick delivery. Rehearse your opening and closing lines. Ensure clarity, confidence and enthusiasm

5. Have one slide or an abridged pitch deck to illustrate your pitch visually. Keep it simple.

6. Most important is to stay authentic, concise and focused. You should not be "selling," rather using passion, clarity and conviction to share your dreams with others.

MONA ATAYA ABOUT SPECIFIC MINDSET THAT HAVE HELPED HER OVERCOME GENDER CHALLENGES AND SUCCEED AS A WOMAN LEADER IN HER INDUSTRY

• Embrace Authenticity and Confidence. I′ve learned that being true to myself and embracing my unique perspectives has been crucial. Confidence isn′t about knowing everything but about trusting my abilities and standing firm in my values. This authenticity fosters trust and respect.

• Cultivate Resilience and a Growth Mindset. Challenges and gender biases are inevitable, but viewing setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow is key. Resilience has allowed me to navigate obstacles with determination and a growth mindset keeps me open to continuous learning and adaptation.

• Build a Supportive Network. Surrounding myself with mentors, allies and a strong professional community has provided guidance, encouragement, and advocacy. Women leaders thrive when they have a support system that uplifts their ambitions and challenges stereotypes.

• Prioritise Self-Care and Boundary Setting. This is hard but important. Balancing work and personal life requires intentionality. Setting clear boundaries and taking time for self-care has kept me energized, focused and better equipped to lead effectively without burnout. This requires discipline.

• Challenge the Status Quo and Lead by Example - even when the odds are stacked against you. By challenging norms, taking the harder path, advocating for diversity, and mentoring other women, I am able to create a more inclusive environment - proof that women can lead with strength, grace and impact.

5 tips to achieve Entrepreneurial success

1. Be passionate about the problem you are solving and validate your idea early. Ensure your vision will truly solve a meaningful need and create lasting impact. Dont just copy others.

2. ​Focus on Scalability metrics from day 1. Design your business model with scalability in mind and achievable Path to profitability. Focus on strong unit economics from the start - low margins or weak fundamentals will hinder growth long term.

3. Build a Powerhouse Network. Surround yourself with experienced entrepreneurs, mentors and advisors. Join incubators or accelerators and leadership groups to gain insights funding and support

4. ​Adopt a zero compromise Customer- First Mindset. Businesses that prioritize customer experience and value are far more likely to thrive beyond short term gains.

5. Maintain Financial Discipline. Develop a robust, accurate and adaptable financial model early on. Consistely iterate, optimize and ensure your finances align with your growth objectices- precision today paves the way to success later. Keep close track of cash flow and make data informed decisions.