Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nabil Eid. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nabil, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Have you ever had an amazing boss, mentor or leader leading you? Can you us a story or anecdote that helps illustrate why this person was such a great leader and the impact they had on you or their team?

Yes, I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by Debra Ruh, a true advocate for Disability Inclusion globally. In my experience, Debra’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity has left an indelible mark on both individuals and teams. One particular instance stands out to me: during a critical project, Debra ensured that accessibility considerations were seamlessly integrated, fostering an environment where everyone could contribute their best.

Her leadership went beyond policies; she actively promoted a culture of understanding and empathy. I remember meetings she organized that not only educated us on disability inclusion but also facilitated open discussions where team members could share their experiences and perspectives. It created a profound sense of unity and understanding.

What makes leaders like Debra exceptional is their ability to translate advocacy into tangible actions. Through her support, I witnessed a positive transformation in our team dynamics and a broader impact on the organization’s commitment to inclusivity. Debra Ruh’s leadership has undoubtedly shaped my perspective on the importance of diversity and inclusion, not just as a checkbox but as an integral part of fostering innovation and collaboration on a global scale.

Nabil, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Throughout my career spanning over 30 years, I have dedicated myself to crafting inclusive strategies for people with disabilities and leading change initiatives globally. My work encompasses various realms, collaborating with governments, international non-governmental organizations, civil society networks, and United Nations agencies. Here’s a snapshot of my journey:

I currently serve as the Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Billion Strong Organization, a role I took on in August 2021. In this position, I continue to champion disability inclusion on a global scale, working towards empowering individuals and fostering positive transformations.

Also, I have held the position of Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Ruh Global IMPACT since April 2020, where I leveraged my expertise in ICT accessibility to make a significant impact. Before that, my role as an ICT Accessibility Expert at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in Geneva allowed me to contribute to global initiatives that shape the accessibility landscape.

My commitment to disability inclusion extends beyond job titles, which is evident in my comprehensive skill set. As the author of eight books on ICT inclusion and accessibility, published in Arabic and English, I strive to advance knowledge and understanding in areas such as E-Health, employability, inclusive education, AI, and the metaverse across the Middle East and North Africa.

I have played key roles in advancing worldwide initiatives to empower the disability community, promoting rights, and fostering global awareness. This includes engagements in research to enhance accessibility, metaverse inclusivity, and assistive technology access, aligning with the formulation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda.

My work as a pioneer in accessibility (A11Y) solutions and digital inclusion, along with comprehensive eAccessibility service assessments and recommendations, has further solidified my commitment to creating accessible variations of conventional technical solutions and enhancing customer experiences for people with disabilities.

Education-wise, I hold a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Planning and Strategies for Disadvantaged Development Communities from the University of Aleppo. Additionally, I’ve pursued profound studies in ICT accessibility and disability inclusion at US universities.

My contributions and affiliations worldwide and regionally include extensive publications, conversations, and initiatives to advance ICT accessibility, disability inclusion, diversity, and identity. Notable recognitions, certifications, and awards from prestigious organizations validate my commitment and impact.

In blogging, I’ve shared insights on crucial topics, such as the power of inclusive AI, the accessible metaverse and education, and the transformative impact of voice assistants and smart home technologies on people with disabilities.

My professional journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of inclusivity, empowerment, and positive change for individuals with disabilities. I look forward to continued collaboration and contributions towards creating a more accessible and equitable world for all.”

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One significant lesson I had to unlearn was the notion that individual achievements solely measure success. Early in my career, I embraced the idea that personal accomplishments were the primary indicators of progress and fulfillment. However, the backstory behind this shift in perspective is quite enlightening.

As I immersed myself in the world of disability advocacy and inclusive strategies, I began to realize the immense power of collective efforts. The complexity and interconnectedness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities require a collaborative and community-driven approach. Success, in this context, wasn’t just about personal milestones but about the positive impact we could achieve together.

The catalyst for this realization was a series of collaborative projects where I witnessed the transformative power of teamwork. Whether it was crafting inclusive policies, advancing accessibility solutions, or fostering inclusive communities, the synergy of collective efforts far surpassed individual achievements.

The lesson to unlearn was a paradigm shift from ‘I’ to ‘we.’ Embracing the idea that our collective endeavors contribute to a larger, more meaningful impact has enhanced my professional journey and enriched my understanding of success in inclusivity. It’s a lesson that continues to shape my approach, reminding me that the most profound achievements often stem from shared goals and collaborative endeavors.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale is integral to fostering a productive and positive work environment. Based on my experience in leading diverse teams across various global initiatives, I would offer the following advice:

1. Establish transparent and open communication channels. We need to regularly share updates, goals, and the team’s overall vision. Clarity in communication helps team members understand their roles and contributions, fostering a sense of purpose.

2. Empower team members by trusting them with responsibilities. Recognize and leverage their strengths, allowing autonomy in decision-making where possible. Trust is the foundation of a motivated and engaged team.

3. Acknowledge and celebrate both individual and team achievements. Regularly express appreciation for hard work and dedication. Feeling recognized and valued enhances morale and encourages sustained effort.

4. Invest in the professional growth of team members. Provide opportunities for skill development and career advancement. A team that sees a commitment to their individual growth is likely to reciprocate with increased dedication.

5. Foster an inclusive and diverse workplace for all, including employees with disabilities. Embrace different perspectives, backgrounds, and skills. A diverse team brings a wealth of ideas and creativity, contributing to a dynamic and stimulating work environment.

6. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
Recognize the importance of work-life balance. Encourage flexible work arrangements where feasible, and be understanding of personal commitments. Supporting a healthy balance contributes to overall well-being and job satisfaction.

7. Encourage a culture of constructive feedback and collaborative problem-solving. Address challenges collectively and view them as opportunities for improvement. Creating a safe space for open dialogue fosters trust and team cohesion.

8. Incorporate team-building activities into the work routine. This could be as simple as occasional team lunches, virtual gatherings, or collaborative projects. Building strong interpersonal connections enhances morale and teamwork.

9. Demonstrate the values and work ethic you expect from your team. Leading by example establishes credibility and sets a positive tone for the entire team. Be approachable, responsive, and willing to roll up your sleeves when needed.

10. Conduct regular one-on-one and team check-ins. These provide opportunities for individual feedback, addressing concerns, and ensuring everyone feels heard. Open lines of communication contribute to a supportive team dynamic.

By incorporating these principles into your leadership approach, you can create a work and inclusive environment that not only supports the professional growth of your team but also cultivates high morale, ultimately driving collective success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.billion-strong.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eidnabil
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nabileid/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/nabileid1?lang=en