In this episode, we sit down with Youssef Salem — CFO of ADNOC Drilling, co-founder of Qora71, and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree — to unpack how one of MENA’s youngest corporate finance leaders is shaping the future of venture capital, energy tech, and Islamic finance. From advising on multibillion-dollar IPOs at Moelis to leading a SPAC listing on NASDAQ with Swvl, Youssef shares his journey through high-stakes capital markets, private equity exits, and sovereign-backed innovation in Abu Dhabi. He explains why the MENA region’s investment ecosystem is maturing fast — thanks to a surge in listings, secondary markets, and sovereign funds pivoting toward growth-stage VC and climate tech. We explore how Youssef built Qora71, a zero-fee, no-carry syndicate that's rewriting how professionals invest in early-stage startups. He breaks down the future of Shariah-compliant ETFs, the role of retail in unlocking liquidity, and why the UAE is uniquely positioned to become a global AI and quantum computing hub. The conversation also delves into sustainable finance, where Youssef explains how ADNOC Drilling balances profitability with carbon capture initiatives and late-stage tech investments — emphasizing strategic transition over hype-driven pivots. Finally, Youssef reflects on the power of bite-sized learning, curiosity in conversation, and staying grounded in Islamic values — even while scaling billion-dollar operations.

Meet the Team:
A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, MA, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew. Connect with Us!

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In this episode, Allan and Ali, Co-Founders of EmFlex, discussed the inception and business model of their embedded lending solution focused on the auto financing sector in Saudi Arabia and the GCC. They emphasized the growing trend of embedded finance, where financial services are integrated into non-financial platforms, catering to a shift in consumer behavior that favors convenience. The duo highlighted the significant market potential in Saudi Arabia, where car sales reach approximately $10 billion annually, with a large portion being financed. They aim to streamline the financing process for consumers and distributors by providing quicker approvals and better offers through their technology.

The conversation also delved into the competitive landscape of fintech in the region, with Allan and Ali noting the importance of building strong partnerships with banks and financial institutions. They explained how their model mirrors successful buy-now-pay-later schemes, where they generate revenue by enhancing sales for merchants while facilitating financing for customers. The co-founders shared insights on the challenges of integrating with traditional banking systems and the evolving regulatory environment that is becoming more conducive to innovation in fintech.

Finally, Allan and Ali reflected on their entrepreneurial journeys, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a work-life balance while pursuing their business goals. They discussed their experiences at the Antler residency, which helped them form a strong partnership and develop their business concept. Looking ahead, they expressed optimism about the future of fintech in the region, anticipating further innovation and growth in embedded finance solutions, particularly in auto financing and beyond.

Meet the Team:

A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, M&A, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.

Connect with Us! 🌐

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In this episode of The Dollar Diaries, the host welcomes Joshua and Janine, the hosts of the Half A Nice Day Podcast. The conversation kicks off with light-hearted banter about parking karma and queuing woes, setting a relaxed tone for the discussion. They delve into their experiences with podcasting, highlighting the effort and dedication required to produce engaging content. The guests share insights into their podcasting journey, including the challenges of maintaining listener engagement and the importance of supportive followers who contribute with comments and timestamps.

The discussion transitions into personal anecdotes and professional experiences. Joshua talks about his role at SAP, focusing on customer success and the integration of AI in HR solutions. He explains the potential of AI to streamline HR processes, making them more efficient. Meanwhile, Janine shares her background in wedding photography, discussing the challenges of finding clients and the nuances of the wedding industry. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a unique style and the impact of word-of-mouth in building a client base.

The episode also touches on the dynamics of their relationship, with Janine being the planner and Joshua the laid-back partner. They discuss financial planning for their wedding and future, highlighting the importance of saving and investing. The conversation wraps up with Joshua's insights into the comedy scene in the UAE, noting the growing opportunities and challenges for local comedians. The episode is a blend of humor, personal stories, and professional insights, offering listeners a glimpse into the lives of Joshua and Janine.

Meet the Team:

A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, MA, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.

Connect with Us! 🌐

X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/dollar_diaries

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollardiariespodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedollardiariespodcast

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📬 Join Our Community!

Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://thedollardiaries.media/

Join us weekly as we explore how to make, manage, and multiply your money! 🎧💵 Let's make those dirhams dance! 💃🕺

In this episode, Amel Chouikh, the Head of Finance for France, the Middle East, and Africa at Uber, shared her unique journey into the finance sector, which began with aspirations in media and entrepreneurship. Despite her initial interest in film, she pivoted to finance after realizing her strengths lay elsewhere. Amel's career path took her from Deloitte, where she worked on financial system consulting, to General Electric, and eventually to Microsoft before landing at Uber. Throughout her journey, she emphasized the importance of networking and maintaining good relationships, as the professional world is interconnected.

Amel discussed the competitive nature of the finance field and the necessity of understanding the business landscape to succeed. She highlighted her approach of immersing herself in the operations of the companies she worked for, which allowed her to grasp the intricacies of the business and effectively contribute to financial discussions. This understanding is crucial in her current role at Uber, where she manages a substantial portfolio and focuses on balancing the needs of drivers and customers while ensuring profitability.

The episode also touched on broader financial concepts, such as the significance of metrics like EBITDA and free cash flow in evaluating a company's performance. Amel explained how these metrics help investors assess a company's financial health and operational efficiency. She concluded by discussing the importance of sustainability in business practices, particularly in the context of Uber's goals for electric vehicle integration and the challenges of implementing such initiatives across different markets.

Meet the Team:

A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, M&A, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.

Connect with Us! 🌐

X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/dollar_diaries

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollardiariespodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedollardiariespodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedollardiaries

📬 Join Our Community!

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Join us weekly as we explore how to make, manage, and multiply your money! 🎧💵 Let's make those dirhams dance! 💃🕺

In this episode, Maryam Al Ansari, the Founder & CEO of Itifaq, shares her journey in blending finance with entrepreneurship, particularly in the AI finance sector in the UAE. She discusses her early education in entrepreneurship and finance, highlighting how an intensive diploma program provided her with foundational skills that proved more applicable than her bachelor's degree. Maryam emphasizes the importance of having the freedom to fail as a student entrepreneur, allowing for growth and learning without the harsh judgments of more established individuals in the business world.

Maryam also addresses the challenges she faced in seeking support from her university, particularly when she was disqualified from a competition due to being perceived as "at another level." This experience fueled her determination to advocate for herself and her hard work. Her vision includes integrating AI to enhance accessibility and efficiency in legal services.

Looking ahead, Maryam outlines her plans for Itifaq, including launching the platform by the end of the year and expanding into various legal domains. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and networking in her entrepreneurial journey, sharing her experiences of reaching out to seasoned professionals for guidance. The episode concludes with Maryam expressing her belief in the transformative potential of legal tech, not just as a business venture but as a means to positively impact lives, particularly in critical legal situations.

Meet the Team:

A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, M&A, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.

Connect with Us! 🌐

X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/dollar_diaries

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollardiariespodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedollardiariespodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedollardiaries

📬 Join Our Community!

Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://thedollardiaries.media/

Join the SPEND LESS Community:

https://chat.whatsapp.com/FG67aEgWQa5IP1W1ue5J8s

Special Offer! 🎓 SecureMyScholarship

Make education affordable! Get up to 50% off on your university degree with SecureMyScholarship.

Go to https://bit.ly/paylessfees to avail your scholarship now!

Join us weekly as we explore how to make, manage, and multiply your money! 🎧💵 Let's make those dirhams dance! 💃🕺

In this episode, Jan, the CEO of SAE UAE, shared insights about his extensive career in education, which spans over 30 years. He began as a teacher and progressed to school principal and education consultant roles before transitioning to higher education management in South Africa. Jan emphasized his passion for supporting creative careers, highlighting the importance of informing students about the opportunities available in the creative industries, which are often undervalued compared to traditional fields like engineering and medicine.

Jan discussed the unique educational landscape in Dubai, noting its rapid growth and the establishment of numerous new schools and universities. He pointed out that the UAE has become an attractive hub for education, particularly for international students, due to its favorable visa policies and high-quality institutions. He encouraged students to recognize the value of pursuing creative disciplines, asserting that passion and dedication can lead to successful careers in the creative sector despite common misconceptions about financial stability.

The conversation also touched on technology's impact on the creative industry, particularly AI. Jan expressed that while technology can enhance creativity, it should not replace the foundational idea generation that comes from the mind. He advised aspiring creatives to focus on developing their skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, ensuring they understand the business aspects of their careers. Jan concluded by encouraging young people to pursue their passions in the creative industry, emphasizing that financial success will follow if they remain dedicated to their craft.

Meet the Team:

A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, M&A, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.

Connect with Us! 🌐

X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/dollar_diaries

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollardiariespodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedollardiariespodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedollardiaries

📬 Join Our Community!

Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://thedollardiaries.media/

Join the SPEND LESS Community:

https://chat.whatsapp.com/FG67aEgWQa5IP1W1ue5J8s

Special Offer! 🎓 SecureMyScholarship

Make education affordable! Get up to 50% off on your university degree with SecureMyScholarship.

Go to https://bit.ly/paylessfees to avail your scholarship now!

Join us weekly as we explore how to make, manage, and multiply your money! 🎧💵 Let's make those dirhams dance! 💃🕺

In this episode, Shivangi shares her journey from being a passionate lawyer specializing in matrimonial and media law to transitioning into the dynamic field of marketing and PR. She recounts how her early career in litigation, particularly in high-stakes divorce cases, taught her valuable life lessons and honed her communication skills. However, the COVID-19 pandemic became a turning point, leading her to explore digital marketing and social media, areas she had always been passionate about. Despite her success in law, Shivangi found greater fulfillment in marketing, where she could leverage her creativity and interpersonal skills, eventually rising to a senior marketing strategist role.

Shivangi also discusses the importance of self-advocacy and confidence in personal and professional life. She emphasizes that no one else will advocate for you, and speaking up for yourself is crucial, whether in a corporate setting or in personal relationships. Her transition from law to marketing was driven by her belief in following her passion, even if it meant stepping away from a traditional career path. She highlights the value of networking, building meaningful connections, and maintaining a work-life balance, especially as an expat in Dubai, where she found a supportive community through initiatives like Dubai Young Professionals.

Throughout the episode, Shivangi reflects on her lessons, including the importance of mental health, the need for companies to prioritize employee well-being, and the power of taking risks. She encourages listeners to pursue what makes them happy, even deviating from societal expectations. Her story is a testament to the idea that success is not just about financial achievements but also personal fulfillment and growth.Meet the Team:A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy deep in finance, M&A, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.Connect with Us! 🌐X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/dollar_diariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollardiariespodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedollardiariespodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedollardiaries📬 Join Our Community!

Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://thedollardiaries.media/

Join the SPEND LESS Community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FG67aEgWQa5IP1W1ue5J8sSpecial Offer! 🎓 SecureMyScholarshipMake education affordable!

Get up to 50% off on your university degree with SecureMyScholarship. Go to https://bit.ly/paylessfees to avail your scholarship now!Join us weekly as we explore how to make, manage, and multiply your money! 🎧💵 Let's make those dirhams dance! 💃🕺

In this episode, Osama, co-founder of the startup +twe, discussed the challenges Gen Z faces using LinkedIn, particularly their intimidation when creating profiles without job experience. He highlighted the need for a more engaging platform that caters to young users, aiming to create a gamified learning experience that simplifies building a professional profile and applying for jobs. Osama emphasized making the job search process more enjoyable and less daunting for students and recent graduates.

Osama elaborated on his consulting background at IBM, focusing on problem-solving for clients, particularly in technology, processes, and change management. He shared insights on the impact of AI on the workforce, noting that while it may lead to job displacement, it also opens opportunities for innovation and creativity. He encouraged individuals to upskill and adapt to the changing job landscape, emphasizing that AI should be viewed as a tool for enhancing productivity rather than a threat.

The discussion also covered the current state of the +twe platform, which aims to centralize student resources, including job listings, scholarships, and university applications. Osama explained that the platform offers community engagement and gamified learning features, with plans to expand its functionalities. He expressed a vision for +twe to serve as a bridge between students and opportunities, ultimately preparing them for a successful transition to platforms like LinkedIn as they enter the workforce.

Meet the Team:A dynamic mix of personalities and expertise, each bringing unique energy to the table. Abubakr Sajith, the unofficial leader (even if he didn’t ask for it), keeps things running smoothly with his finance, IT, and entrepreneurial background. Gazala Parkar, the PR pro, is the team’s caring yet no-nonsense mother figure, while Guhaesh Subramanian, the ever-networking master's student, plays the carefree uncle. Anas Memon is the resident numbers guy in finance, M&A, and private equity. At the same time, Aditya Poddar, with his love-hate relationship with his 9-to-5, embraces his role as the team’s laid-back producer. Eiman Ansari, the cybersecurity expert, provides comedic relief when she shows up alongside Liz Ann D’Souza, the creative force with a film and content creation background. And then there’s Zainab Netterwala, the IT and computer science whiz, who takes on the role of the little sister in this eclectic, ever-evolving crew.

Connect with Us! 🌐X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/dollar_diariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollardiariespodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedollardiariespodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedollardiaries

📬 Join Our Community!Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://thedollardiaries.media/Join the SPEND LESS Community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FG67aEgWQa5IP1W1ue5J8s

Special Offer! 🎓 SecureMyScholarshipMake education affordable! Get up to 50% off on your university degree with SecureMyScholarship. Go to https://bit.ly/paylessfees to avail your scholarship now!Join us weekly as we explore how to make, manage, and multiply your money! 🎧💵 Let's make those dirhams dance! 💃🕺

Timestamps:

00:00 - Trailer

03:00 - Gamified Learning Experience

05:00 - AI and Its Impact on Jobs and the Economy

15:00 - Challenges for Graduates and Job Seekers

18:00 - +twe: A Centralized Platform for Students and Graduates

21:00 - Gamified Learning and Community Features

24:00 - Challenges with LinkedIn and Job Applications

27:00 - Vision: Centralizing Job and University Applications

33:00 - Outsourcing and Cost-Saving Strategies for Startups

36:00 - LinkedIn's Role and Comparison with +twe

39:00 - LinkedIn Lunatics and Social Media Trends

42:00 - Temu: User Experience and Gamification