Training Development
Mentorship, Talent, and Innovation: Kholoud Zakaria's insights on DP World Egypt’s people-driven transformation
Kholoud Zakaria’s story highlights how talent development, mentorship, and local expertise are driving digital transformation and operational excellence at DP World Egypt.
At the Port of Ain Sokhna, where massive vessels meet cutting-edge logistics, the future of trade in Egypt is being shaped not just by cranes and containers, but by people.
In this exclusive story for DP World, we explore how talent development is fueling operational excellence and digital transformation, with a spotlight on Kholoud Zakaria, an Operations Analyst. Her journey from the Grow Programme to leading new talent reflects the company’s dedication to upskilling and empowering local expertise.
Beyond infrastructure, it’s the mentorship, collaboration, and empowerment of employees that are transforming Egypt’s ports into a resilient gateway for trade across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
Read here the full interview with Zakaria:
Q. Can you tell us a bit about your journey with DP World, how did it begin, and what has your growth looked like over the years? What attracted you to this sector, and how has your role evolved, any defining moments or challenges that shaped your path?
I joined DP World in 2018 as part of the inaugural Grow Programme cohort, which is designed to develop young local talent through hands-on exposure across different parts of the logistics chain. I began in customer service, which gave me a deep appreciation for how operations directly impact the customer experience. This foundation helped shape my approach to problem-solving and stakeholder engagement.
Over time, I moved into planning support and now serve as a Planning Analyst Superintendent at Sokhna Port. Each stage of the journey has helped me build a broad skill set, from process optimisation to data analysis.
One of the defining moments for me was leading the onboarding and training of a new cohort of Grow participants, many of whom now report to me. Seeing them grow has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career
Q. DP World places a strong emphasis on upskilling local talent. What kind of training or development opportunities have been most impactful for you? How has the company supported your growth?
The Grow Programme itself was instrumental. It offered immersive, cross-functional training that helped me understand both the technical and operational sides of logistics.
Beyond that, I've benefited from on-the-job learning, mentorship from senior colleagues, and the opportunity to lead training for new joiners.
DP World supports our growth by giving us the tools, responsibilities, and trust we need to excel. The company invests in both infrastructure and people - ensuring we operate to global standards while staying rooted in local expertise.
Q. In your experience, how is local expertise contributing to digital transformation efforts within the sector? What role do you see data and digital tools playing in the future of trade and port operations?
Local expertise is essential in understanding the practical realities of our operations.
By combining that on-ground knowledge with digital tools, we’re able to design smarter, more efficient solutions to support customer’s expanding supply chains. In my current role, I analyse operational data to help optimise container flow and improve coordination across departments.
Digital transformation is already reshaping our sector - whether it’s through real-time tracking, predictive analytics, or automated workflows. But the real power comes when local teams are empowered to drive that change from within.
Q. What’s the culture like at DP World Egypt when it comes to collaboration, mentorship, innovation, and supporting each other’s growth? How do you believe these practices are essential to building a resilient and future-ready trade ecosystem, especially in a fast-evolving industry?
The culture at DP World Egypt is deeply collaborative and forward-looking. There’s a strong emphasis on mentorship, continuous improvement, and collective problem solving.
I’ve seen first-hand how cross-functional teamwork can resolve complex operational challenges and how open communication builds trust and agility.
These cultural traits aren’t just internal values - they’re key to building a resilient logistics ecosystem that can adapt to global shifts in trade and technology. Our team is stronger because we support each other’s growth
Q. You’re a strong advocate of lead by empowering others. How has supporting women in operations shaped your own leadership style, and what role does collaboration play in driving meaningful change?
Supporting women in logistics has deeply shaped my leadership style. I believe leadership is about creating space for others to succeed, and that’s especially true in traditionally male-dominated sectors like port operations.
Mentoring the new Grow cohort, particularly young women, was a powerful experience. I’ve seen how visibility, trust, and inclusion can transform confidence and performance. Collaboration isn’t just a strategy, it’s how we create sustainable, inclusive change.
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Q. What advice would you offer to young professionals, especially women, aspiring to build a career in logistics or trade? And do you think other industries could benefit from adopting DP World’s approach to talent development and empowerment?
My advice is simple: be persistent, stay curious, and never underestimate your potential. Logistics is an exciting, fast-evolving industry that rewards problem solvers and team players. There’s room to grow, to lead, and to innovate regardless of your background.
Other industries could absolutely learn from DP World’s approach, particularly how it combines global standards with local empowerment. By investing in people and trusting them to lead, you unlock both performance and purpose.
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