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Deemah AlYahya

Secretary-General of Digital Cooperation Organization for #DigitalProsperity4All | Founder of WomenSpark | Digital Economy Advisor & Innovation Catalyst

Deemah AlYahya is a prominent Saudi digital economy expert and tech diplomat who currently serves as a Board Member at The Saudi National Bank (SNB).4 Her career spans over two decades, during which she has held several high-profile positions and made significant contributions to digital transformation and innovation.

Key Roles and Achievements

Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO)

AlYahya is the founding Secretary-General of the DCO, an international intergovernmental organization focused on fostering cooperation to accelerate the growth of an inclusive and sustainable digital economy.12 She was appointed to this position in 2021, making her the first Saudi woman to lead an international organization.2

Board Memberships

In addition to her role at SNB, AlYahya serves on several other boards:

  • Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP)3
  • Saudi Company for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI)3
  • The Saudi Federation for Cyber Security and Programming (SAFCSP)3
  • Riyad Capital (April 2023 - March 2024)3

Other Notable Positions

  • Commissioner at the Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development3
  • Champion of the EDISON Alliance at the World Economic Forum3
  • Founder of WomenSpark, a non-profit organization empowering women in the tech sector1

Professional Background

AlYahya's career trajectory includes:

  • CEO of the National Digital Transformation Unit (NDU) in Saudi Arabia (2016-2017)2
  • Executive Director of Developer Experience and Digital Innovation at Microsoft1
  • Founder and Managing Partner of ALMTD Consulting3

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Information Systems from King Saud University12
  • Graduate of INSEAD senior executive programs1
  • Completed various programs at Harvard Business School1

Recognition

In 2018, AlYahya was recognized as the "Digital CEO of the Year" by Entrepreneur Middle East magazine.1

Deemah AlYahya is known for her passion for empowering women in the ICT sector and her commitment to fostering digital cooperation to ensure universal connectivity and bridge the digital divide.1 Her expertise in digital transformation and her role as a tech diplomat have positioned her as a key figure in advancing the digital economy on a global scale.

Highlights

Aug 29 · linkedin

Over the last two decades online communities have grown exponentially, connecting people across countries, cultures and communities who might never have crossed paths offline. These communities have been enablers for millions of people in accessing information and resources for healthcare, employment, education, and more.

I personally have benefited from many online networks in meeting like-minded professionals, made many friends, and learned a lot. However, it concerns me that with this increased global connectivity misinformation is spreading like wildfire.

We can see its horrific impact – from defaming individuals to causing communal riots. Online platforms, social media networks, regulatory authorities must work together with governments, civil societies and internation organizations to effectively counter misinformation.

But let’s step back and reflect - are we as individuals participating and communicating responsibly in these digital spaces?

As participants in digital interactions, it is our responsibility too, to ensure accountability and truthfulness. What do you think? How can we ensure these values are upheld in our interactions in online spaces?

#ThoughtStarter #Misinformation #SocialMedia

Aug 28 · linkedin

Great delight meeting with Amb. of Malta to Saudi Arabia, HE Dr. Clive Aquilina Spagnol at the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) HQ. Where we had a fruitful discussion on digital inclusion, enhancing public services, and driving economic growth through digital technologies.

Malta shows great potential in the global digital economy and has a strong agenda for growth backed by its "Malta Diġitali 2022-2027" strategy. We admire its commitment to building a digitally skilled workforce, ensuring robust cybersecurity, and developing a sustainable and advanced digital infrastructure. Excited about exploring the significant opportunities for close collaboration in these areas going forward. #DigitalProsperity4All

Related Questions

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Deemah AlYahya
Deemah AlYahya, photo 1
Deemah AlYahya, photo 2
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Location

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia