How Will iAccel GBI’s Mentor Board Shape the Future of Innovation in the UAE?
At iAccel Gulf Business Incubator (iAccel GBI), they've taken an exciting step forward by forming their Mentor Board. This board is currently made up of three industry leaders with over 25-30 years of experience each in their respective fields: Mr. Sivarama Subramanian, Mr. Bashar Kilani, and Mr. Karl Tlais. They will be guiding iAccel GBI and their portfolio startups towards growth in the UAE and the Middle East.
Sivarama Subramanian is a notable figure in the banking sector across the UAE and GCC. An alumnus of IIT-Madras and IIM-Ahmedabad, he has held senior leadership roles at Emirates NBD, Dubai First, Dubai Bank, and Citi. Earlier in his career, he worked with FMCG giants like Procter & Gamble and Godrej Group in India. Sivarama mentioned how delighted he is to join the Mentor Board at iAccel GBI and how he looks forward to using his extensive experience to support and guide entrepreneurs in their journey across the region.
Bashar Kilani is another seasoned leader on our Mentor Board. He has a track record of engaging new markets and holding leadership positions in general management, sales & marketing, and consulting & services with companies like Accenture and IBM. His career spans the Middle East, Europe, and the USA. As an expert in digital transformation, AI, blockchain, and cloud technologies, Bashar is excited to contribute to the ecosystem that iAccel GBI is building. He looks forward to collaborating with entrepreneurs and helping them overcome the challenges of the digital economy.
Karl Tlais is a strategic business leader and board advisor with over 25 years of experience in building market presence and driving innovation across the Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Recognized as a transformational leader in the digital economy, AI, fintech, and venture capital space, Karl has held key roles at Visa, Microsoft, Cisco, Singtel Optus, and Vodafone. As a Dubai Future Fellow and co-chair of the Capital Club Dubai Transformational Business Leaders committee, he is dedicated to building a future-ready economy. Karl is eager to share insights and guidance with the next generation of innovative startups at iAccel GBI, helping them expand in a competitive global market.
Co-founder, Anishkaa Gehani, highlighted the significance of adding these esteemed members to their Mentor Board. Their deep expertise in various domains will significantly enhance the journey of portfolio startups, providing them with the right direction and opening new avenues of thought as they embark on their expansion journey.
Deepak Ahuja, CEO and co-founder, emphasised that forming the Mentor Board is a pivotal step in strengthening iAccel GBI’s value proposition. Startups will gain invaluable insights and support from these seasoned experts, building a strong foundation for success in their respective industries. We have already seen immense value from their guidance and look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will make on our ecosystem.
