During the 48th leadership conversation, Dr. Tarek Rashed, Chief Technical Officer of Covilizology LLC and a Board Member of the Civilization Rights Institute, shared valuable insights on leadership and the potential of technology in solving environmental and social crises.

When asked about his perception of leadership, Dr. Rashed described it as transformational, aiming to make a tangible impact and effect positive change on the ground. He emphasized the importance of involving all team members in the process and cultivating a leading legacy, while consistently delivering results and working collaboratively.

Addressing the potential of technology to address crises, Dr. Rashed clarified that technology, when implemented effectively, can significantly improve lives. He cited examples of technology aiding farmers in accessing markets and how GIS (Geographic Information System) can provide valuable climate change information and support spatial planning. However, he cautioned that the proper implementation of technology is essential to avoid misinterpretation and potential challenges.

In response to a question about the extent of technology’s penetration, Dr. Rashed discussed the historical significance of GIS, referencing Dr. John Snow’s mapping during a cholera outbreak in London. He highlighted the benefits of GIS in various areas, such as smart cities and environmental planning. Despite its advantages, he acknowledged the need to address implementation challenges for maximum effectiveness.

Regarding e-government, Dr. Rashed stressed the importance of setting priorities and understanding technology’s complexities for successful implementation. He highlighted the significance of data dissemination policies, and while emphasizing the potential benefits of e-government, he acknowledged that adhering to policies can be a challenge.

When asked about advice for youth leaders aspiring to follow a similar career path, Dr. Rashed emphasized the importance of passion for the chosen field, financial rewards, working environment, opportunities for exposure, and the overall impact of their efforts. He encouraged making socially impactful choices, recognizing that every dollar spent for a social cause creates a far-reaching impact.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Rashed provided valuable insights into the transformative power of leadership and the potential of technology to drive positive change, while also acknowledging the challenges in proper implementation and policy adherence. His advice for youth leaders offered valuable guidance for aspiring professionals looking to make a significant difference in their careers.

About the guest speaker:
Dr. Tarek Rashed is the Chief Technical Officer of Covilizology LLC and a board member of the Civilization Rights Institute. Dr. Rashed has led over 55 projects in 50 countries worldwide, focusing on geospatial technology, digitalization, e-government, vulnerability mapping, and disaster risk assessment. Tarek has taught at several prestigious universities, including Indiana University, the University of Oklahoma, the University of Redlands, the University of Southern California, and Amrita University. He holds a Ph.D. in Geography, Master’s Degrees in Computation and Disaster Risk Management, and a BS in Architecture Engineering.