📋 Tender Overview
The Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) featured a significant session highlighting the critical role of leadership and strategic direction in project execution. The discussion also delved into global best practices for empowering women to overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship. Moderated by media professional Shereen Mitwalli, the session began with Laura Barnard, Chief Impact Driver at PMO Strategies, an organisation dedicated to helping businesses maximise the returns on investment.
Barnard emphasised that leadership is not defined by a title or position but by a commitment to a strong work ethic. She underscored the need for continuous training to equip individuals with the skills to plan effectively and execute tasks with precision. Barnard also highlighted the importance of focusing on project methodologies and carefully selecting the right talent to drive success.
Barnard elaborated that change, whether for individuals or societies, should not be imposed but approached as a distinct project requiring innovative and effective tools. She stressed the importance of creating inclusive opportunities for empowerment and fostering change to achieve meaningful and sustainable outcomes. Drawing from her personal experience in advancing women's roles in entrepreneurship, Barnard attributed her success to cultivating confidence and maintaining a relentless pursuit of knowledge and learning.
The session also featured Ike Nwankwo, Board Chair of the Project Management Institute (PMI), who emphasised a vital leadership principle: Developing a deep understanding of team members while fostering a sense of trust and confidence in their decisions, and opinions along with a commitment to transparency.
Nwankwo highlighted that organisational success often depends on prioritising key skills such as resilience, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and flexibility. He underscored the importance of setting clear goals and objectives as foundational elements for overcoming future challenges. Additionally, Nwankwo stressed the need to embrace artificial intelligence and leverage its full potential and outcomes, which are eagerly anticipated by the world.
