An accomplished management consultant with over a decade of experience, Dr. Lilas Al-Asfahani’s excels in transforming businesses through technology and performance improvement. Dr. Lilas is a Director in the Technology Consulting Team in EY, focusing on the Government and Public Sector in MENA. In addition, she is the Founder of Child Abuse Prevention and Education (CAPE) initiative in Kuwait.
Alongside successfully leading her position at EY, Dr. Lilas is marking a positive impact, by being committed to empowering children and educating them on protecting themselves.
Early Life And Educational Background
Born in Syria and raised in Kuwait, Dr. Lilas Al-Asfahani’s family moved to Kuwait just one month before the Iraqi invasion and stayed throughout that challenging period.
Lilas added, “My journey is deeply intertwined with the influence of my father, a self-made entrepreneur who built a successful contracting business ‘Al Khalidi and Al Asfahani’ in Kuwait despite not having the opportunity to complete his school education. His entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his work left a profound impact on me, shaping the values that guide me today.
But it was the day of liberation that truly stands out in my memory – a day filled with hope, relief, and an overwhelming sense of belonging. It was at that moment that I realized how deeply connected I am to Kuwait, a place where I have grown, learned, and built my life. This country holds a very special place in my heart, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities and support.”
Academically, Dr. Lilas holds a doctorate from the University of Manchester, an MBA from Maastricht, and a Bachelor’s from GUST. Her academic journey reflects a passion for complex systems and a drive to make an impact in technology and the public sector. She adds, “The values my father instilled in me – hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence – have been the foundation of my career, guiding me in every decision and challenge I’ve faced.”
GPS-Informed Consulting Approach
As a Director in the Tech Consulting at Ernst and Young, with a focus on GPS work has fundamentally shaped Dr. Lilas’ approach to consulting. She shares, “Working within the public sector presents unique challenges and opportunities – projects are often large-scale and impact a wide range of stakeholders, including citizens. This requires not just technical expertise but also a deep understanding of the regulatory environment, public policy, and the social implications of the work we do.
In my role, I’ve been able to leverage my background and expertise to drive meaningful transformations within government agencies and public institutions. This work is deeply rewarding because it directly contributes to improving public services, enhancing operational efficiency, and ultimately, making a positive impact on society.”
Commitment To Child Protection
Dr. Lilas founded CAPE in 2017 as part of her commitment to child protection and education and it focuses on training children, parents, and educators on their safety and empowerment.
She says, “CAPE (Child Abuse Prevention and Education) is a cause that is incredibly close to my heart. I founded CAPE in 2017 as part of my commitment to child protection and education. The initiative focuses on training children, parents, and educators on body safety, boundaries, and how to report threats, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves.
This work is important to me because I believe that every child has the right to feel safe and secure. Through CAPE, we’ve been able to create resources and programs that address the critical issue of child abuse prevention, making a real difference in the lives of many children and families. The impact of this work is profound, and it continues to drive my passion for advocacy and education.”
Leading With Courage
Leaders of Dr. Lilas Al-Asfahani’s field need to have certain essential skills, particularly courage to take the right risks, that can ensure that they stand out from the competition. She says, “In my opinion, one of the most essential qualities of a successful leader in our industry is courage. This includes the courage to take calculated risks, especially when pursuing ambitious goals or innovative opportunities. As potential rewards increase, so does the resistance – whether due to fear of failure or uncertainty about the outcome. A courageous leader understands that with higher risks often come higher rewards and is willing to embrace these risks to drive progress and change.
Another critical aspect is having to courage to stand up for your team. A good leader knows their growth depends on their team’s growth. This means supporting and advocating for them, helping them overcome challenges, and guiding them to reach their potential.
Message For Aspiring Professionals, We asked: Dr. Lilas Al-Asfahani
Aspiring professionals who are fresh into the field of consulting will find it extremely helpful to hear from experts like Dr. Lilas Al-Asfahani. Addressing the beginners, she shares, “For someone just starting in the consulting field, my advice is to focus on building a strong foundation and developing a clear area of expertise. Don’t be an ‘everything consultant.’ While it’s important to gain a broad understanding by rotating across different teams and projects early in your career, you should eventually aim to specialize in a specific area. And, develop expertise for long-term value and differentiation in the field.
Be selective and strategic with the projects you choose as you gain experience. Seek out opportunities that align with your long-term goals and areas of interest, even if it means passing on projects that don’t fit your vision.”
Dr. Lilas adds, “Seek mentorship and build a personal board of advisors. Mentorship is crucial in navigating the complexities of consulting. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance and support from more experienced colleagues. Beyond just one mentor, consider building a ‘personal board of advisors’ – a group of people with different areas of expertise whom you can turn to for advice on various aspects of your career.
Lastly, never compare yourself to others. Each person’s journey is unique, and everyone progresses at their own pace. Focus on your growth, enjoy the process, and remember that success is not just about reaching the destination but also about the experiences and lessons you gather along the way.”
Follow Dr. Lilas Al-Asfahani on LinkedIn.
Find EY on LinkedIn and visit their website https://www.ey.com/en_in
Find CAPE on Instagram.
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