How NoonDAO Is Leading the Charge for Women in the MENA Blockchain Industry
From Noon to blockchain, how one MENA initiative is empowering Arab women in tech
by Menna Shanab, media writer, and Juan Aranovich
The tech industry is no longer an exclusive domain for men; as the web3 movement gains momentum, the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the industry becomes increasingly apparent. NoonDAO is at the forefront of creating a sustainable ecosystem for women in the MENA region's blockchain sphere. Through a range of community-driven initiatives, NoonDAO empowers Arab women to take charge of shaping the future of Web3 in the region and beyond.
NoonDAO’s Journey in Blockchain
n this vein, the founding of NoonDAO, a DAO established to serve, educate and empower Arab women in the blockchain sphere, represents a big step forward in the efforts to promote greater transparency, trust, and adaptability within the field. "NoonDAO's journey in blockchain began with a group of Arab women who saw the potential of blockchain technology to empower women and promote transparency in the Middle East," shares Nada Jabr, cofounder and CFO of NoonDAO.
The initiative was founded in 2022 by four women hailing from Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt that shared a mutual goal of supporting and educating Arab women, and they believed a DAO would be the best way to achieve this. "The idea for NoonDAO was sparked by a conversation between the co-founders about the challenges facing Arab women, including limited access to education and financial opportunities," says Mariam Safeh, cofounder and COO. “We wanted to create a platform that would empower Arab women by providing them with access to education, resources, and community support."
NoonDAO serves as a dynamic hub for learning, sharing, connecting, and growing. This thriving community welcomes not only Arab women seeking to learn and explore blockchain but also advisors eager to impart their knowledge and expertise. Through NoonDAO, members gain access to networking and talent matchmaking opportunities, valuable resources, educational materials, and connections with mentors and collaborators.
A cornerstone of the organization's success is the nurturing of a supportive and inclusive environment for Arab women within the web3 space.
As Jabr emphasizes, “NoonDAO has effectively united women from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, fostering a space where they can share knowledge, learn from one another, and provide mutual support on their blockchain journeys.”
Bridging the Gap: Overcoming MENA’s Unique Obstacles
NoonDAO addresses the persistent language and cultural barriers that hinder Arab women from entering the blockchain industry. By stitching together a global network of Arab women who share a common language and culture, NoonDAO has created a unique space for members to overcome these obstacles and work together toward achieving their shared goals and aspirations.
Additionally, NoonDAO is dedicated to increasing access to funding, creating opportunities for Arab women to join and explore how they can add value to the blockchain industry. This is further supported by the NoonDAO’s local community engagement efforts, which enable members to connect with local organizations that serve as an extended arm in their communities, providing valuable support and assistance on-ground.
Dispelling Myths
There are still a number of misconceptions surrounding Arab women working in tech. For instance, some assume that Arab women lack the skills and education needed for tech jobs, or that they face insurmountable cultural barriers to working in tech.
According to Safeh, “There are many Arab women who are successfully working in tech and overcoming cultural barriers. It is essential to recognize their achievements and contributions to the industry and to encourage more women to pursue careers in tech.”
While there definitely are cultural and societal challenges for some Arab women entering the tech industry, it is crucial to acknowledge that this is not the case for all women.
Community-Driven
NoonDAO's innovative strategy is reflected in the roles designed to support and facilitate the community's growth: members, advisors, partners, women advocates, and supporters. Arab women, regardless of their experience in blockchain, are eligible for membership, while industry leaders can contribute to the community's education and growth.
By partnering with other DAOs, entities, and local communities, NoonDAO expands its reach and offers members networking opportunities beyond the organization. Women advocates and supporters provide access to community and workplace resources, while companies and teams contribute financial backing to sustain NoonDAO's activities.
Focused on fostering a community that supports and empowers Arab women in blockchain, NoonDAO offers educational initiatives like bootcamps, hackathons, and mentoring sessions. Match-making initiatives connect members with suitable opportunities, and onboarding efforts ensure newcomers feel welcomed and prepared.
Along with these efforts, NoonDAO is set to launch its own podcast, "Noon in Blockchain," featuring interviews with leading women in the blockchain industry, exploring their experiences and insights. This podcast will serve as a valuable resource for members to gain inspiration, learn from successful role models, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry.
Committed to raising awareness and education, NoonDAO organizes events like the 'Arab web3 train' and various conferences, highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing Arab women in the industry.
Furthermore, By investing in projects and companies aligned with its mission, NoonDAO promotes women-led blockchain startups, increasing representation and diversity, and ensuring all voices are included in shaping the future of technology, politics, and financial inclusion.
The Inclusive Approach of NoonDAO
NoonDAO's initiatives and partnerships are advancing the adoption and development of blockchain technology while empowering Arab women in the industry. The organization's focus on education, support, and community-building opportunities is fostering a more accessible and equitable blockchain ecosystem.
"Ultimately, creating a more inclusive and supportive industry will benefit everyone, not just women. By bringing more diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, we can drive innovation and create solutions that benefit the entire ecosystem,” shares Safeh.
This sentiment is echoed by many in the industry who recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and growth.