Revolutionizing leadership: Women Spark and PLAYBOOK launch the first ever Prosperity Lounge at LEAP 2025
The initiative is jointly supported by Vista and Midis Group, reinforcing a shared commitment to driving change within the tech and investment industries.
Women Spark, powered by PLAYBOOK, has announced the launch of the Prosperity Lounge at LEAP, a pioneering initiative designed to advance women’s leadership in technology, entrepreneurship, and investment. This collaboration includes significant contributions from partners Vista Equity Partners, a global investment firm focused exclusively on enterprise software, data and technology-enabled businesses, and Midis Group, reinforcing a shared commitment to driving change within the tech and investment industries.
Hosted at LEAP’s renowned global platform for innovation and future technologies and taking place on February 11 on the Deep Media Stage, the Prosperity Lounge represents a strategic effort to integrate women more profoundly into the economic fabric of the region.
The Prosperity Lounge is set to transform the narrative surrounding women-led entrepreneurship and investment by fostering meaningful dialogue, mentorship, and strategic business connections. Throughout LEAP, the lounge will feature dynamic sessions inspired by TED Talks and expert panels, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities for women in these critical sectors, catalyzing innovative ideas, and fostering impactful networking.
The event will commence with an opening keynote from Wafa AlObaidat, Founder and CEO of PLAYBOOK, who will provide insights into the foundational goals of the Prosperity Lounge. “This lounge embodies our commitment to actively elevating the role of women in the global technology and investment arenas. By bringing together thought leaders and innovators, we are creating a future where women’s contributions are integral to technological and entrepreneurial success,” said AlObaidat.
A highlight of the event will be a fireside chat with Deemah Al Yahya, Founder of Women Spark and Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization. “Networking is not merely about connecting people; it’s about strategically aligning them with transformative ideas, opportunities, and comprehensive visions that drive profound economic growth and technological innovation,” stated Al Yahya. “By cultivating a robust network, we are setting the stage for sustainable development and empowering women to be at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our global economy.”
Vista, a key partner of the Prosperity Lounge, will be spearheading a full day of the lounge’s programming. “Vista is proud to collaborate with Women Spark, PLAYBOOK and Midis Group on this important initiative to empower the next generation of women’s technology leadership in Saudi Arabia and beyond. This forward-looking platform will help enable aspiring entrepreneurs in the region through mentorship, education and access to some of the world’s premier technology founders and investors,” said Robert F. Smith, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista.
Fadi Matta, VP of Mindware KSA, a key partner from the Midis Group, will lead a session on the strategic deployment of IT solutions to foster business growth in diverse markets. “Our focus is on enabling women entrepreneurs to leverage cutting-edge technologies to expand their businesses regionally and globally,” commented Matta.
Ali AlShankiti, General Manager of MDS for Computer Systems, also from Midis Group, will discuss the critical role of digital transformation in scaling businesses. “Digital transformation presents a unique opportunity for women leaders to redefine the marketplace and lead robust, innovative businesses,” AlShankiti explained.
Discussions during the event will span a variety of topics crucial to the advancement of women in technology, including leadership roles in AI, with insights from experts like Dr. Wareed Alenaini and Eryn Peters. Peters will also address modern change management strategies vital for scaling companies in today’s AI-centric environment. Additionally, sessions will explore strategic approaches to regional market expansion, demonstrating how technology solutions can be tailored to meet diverse market dynamics while upholding core organizational values.
Further insights will be provided by Sara Zare, who will examine the disparities in women’s participation in STEM fields across the Middle East compared to Western countries. Zare will offer a detailed analysis of the lessons and opportunities that can enhance inclusivity in these pivotal sectors.
The event will conclude with closing remarks from Shreya Rammohan, Co-Founder and CGO of PLAYBOOK, who will express gratitude to all speakers, partners, and attendees for their roles in fostering a successful and transformative dialogue at LEAP.
This initiative not only aligns with LEAP’s vision to spotlight transformative ideas but also significantly contributes to shaping an inclusive economic and technological future in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Explore the collaborative initiatives and join us at Women Spark, powered by PLAYBOOK, as we forge paths for women entrepreneurs globally. For more details, visit https://www.get-playbook.com/women-spark.
About Women Spark
Founded by Deemah Al Yahya, Women Spark is the leading angel investment network in the MENA region, now supercharged by its acquisition by Playbook. This partnership creates an unparalleled platform to support women entrepreneurs worldwide. With a focus on bridging the investment gap, fostering global partnerships, and accelerating the growth of women with the resources they need to scale, Women Spark is positioning itself as the go-to network for female founders seeking mentorship, capital, and community. To learn more about how Women Spark is revolutionizing the future of women-led businesses, visit Women Spark.
About PLAYBOOK
PLAYBOOK is a powerful global networking and mentorship platform for women leaders. With an award-winning leadership team that is fully-female founded, the network has been making waves regionally and internationally with its high-quality production masterclasses, robust community, networking potential, workshops, events and mentorship programs.