Dubai, UAE – April 17th, 2025 – Female Founders Network brought together 90 female entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders for a high impact morning of strategy, storytelling, and connection at Google Headquarters in Dubai.
Focused on the theme of “Future-Ready Leadership”, the April event featured globally acclaimed futurist John Sanei and powerhouse entrepreneur Donna Benton in an inspiring and thought-provoking lineup.
The session marked a defining moment for women in business navigating growth, innovation, and resilience in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Nicki Bedford, Founder & CEO of Female Founders Network, shared: “Another incredible event – This event was about real strategy and belief, especially as we think about how your business scales in the future. We challenged every woman in the room to think bigger, lead with clarity, and future-proof their vision. The insights from John and Donna were a masterclass in both mindset and momentum.”
The morning opened with a thought-provoking keynote from John Sanei, a five-time bestselling author and globally recognized futures strategist. Blending psychology, foresight, and business strategy, John challenged attendees to look beyond the present and embrace the mindset shifts required to thrive in uncertainty.
His session explored how identity plays a critical role in leadership and why adaptability, curiosity, and clarity are essential for entrepreneurs aiming to stay relevant in an ever-evolving business landscape.
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Following the keynote, Nicki Bedford hosted an intimate fireside chat with Donna Benton, founder and CEO of The Entertainer. Donna shared an unfiltered look at her entrepreneurial journey—from the moment the original idea struck to the realities of building a business in the early 2000s, long before startup culture was mainstream.
She spoke about navigating the chaos of the early days, the importance of trusting her gut, and the resilience it took to scale a new business model in an untested market. Her candour, grit, and passion left the room of founders energized and empowered to lead with instinct and confidence.
Female Founders Network: A Growing Movement for Women in Business
Now recognized as one of the region’s leading business networks for women, Female Founders Network continues to deliver curated experiences that blend tactical business insight with connection and momentum.
From monthly events and strategic workshops to investor access and mentorship, the platform is accelerating the rise of bold, visionary women entrepreneurs in the Middle East and beyond.
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