What does it mean to lead not as a career, but as a form of service?In this episode of Center Stage, Marilyn Zakhour sits down with Muna AbuSulayman, one of the most influential voices in the Arab world across media, philanthropy, leadership development, and social impact. Named among the 500 most influential Muslims globally, Muna has spent her career shaping narratives, empowering communities, and building institutions that expand opportunity.In this deeply reflective conversation, Muna shares the philosophy that has guided her unconventional journey. Rather than building a career around titles or sectors, she has consistently followed a single question: where can I create the greatest impact?Together, they explore:- Why leadership in the region is often rooted in service and collective responsibility- How purpose can remain constant while the tools we use to pursue it change- The role of risk, resilience, and personal conviction in shaping a leadership journey- Why networks and weak ties often open the most unexpected doors- The importance of understanding civilizational values when leading across culturesMuna also reflects on leadership through a deeply human lens, speaking openly about difficult decisions, personal sacrifice, the importance of “fallow time,” and the need for leaders to care for their health, families, and inner alignment.The conversation also explores her newest initiative, the Azm Global Leadership Fellowship, designed to equip the next generation of Muslim leaders with the ethical grounding, intellectual depth, and leadership capabilities needed to navigate a world shaped by AI, climate change, and global transformation.This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is not about visibility or status. It is about responsibility, clarity of purpose, and the courage to align your life with the impact you hope to create in the world.

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