Introduction: A New Era for Women in Freight

In the heart of the UAE’s logistics transformation, a quiet revolution is underway—led by women. From freight tech startups to global supply chain strategy, women are breaking barriers in an industry long dominated by men. And nowhere was this shift more visible than at CTW Global 2025, where the panel “Women in Logistics: Breaking Barriers and Leading Change” spotlighted the voices, vision, and victories of female leaders reshaping freight in the Emirates.

As the UAE positions itself as a global logistics hub, platforms like Goods2Load are not only driving freight innovation—they’re amplifying the role of women in building smarter, more inclusive supply chains.

The Logistics Landscape in the UAE

The UAE’s logistics sector is booming. With mega projects like Etihad Rail, smart warehousing zones in Dubai South, and e-commerce giants like Amazon and Noon fueling last-mile delivery, the country is investing heavily in freight infrastructure.

According to Global Supply Chain ME, CTW Global 2025 showcased how automation, AI, and sustainability are reshaping logistics. But it also highlighted a critical shift: the growing presence of women in freight tech, customs, cold chain, and leadership roles.

CTW Global 2025: Spotlight on Women Leading Freight Innovation

At CTW Global 2025, the panel “Women in Logistics: Breaking Barriers and Leading Change” brought together four powerhouse professionals who are redefining freight tech, strategic logistics, and leadership across the UAE and beyond. Moderated by Abigail, the session was a bold, insightful conversation on inclusion, innovation, and impact.

🎙️ Featured Panelists

· Jessica Panigari – CEO & Founder, Goods2Load
Jessica shared her journey of building a freight intelligence platform that empowers businesses with smart logistics, reverse workflows, and carbon tracking. Her leadership exemplifies how women are driving freight tech innovation in the UAE and globally.

· Urvashi Shah – Director, Stanley Black & Decker
Urvashi spoke about navigating global supply chains and leading strategic operations in a multinational environment. She emphasized the importance of resilience, mentorship, and visibility for women in logistics leadership.

· Migle Matelionyte – Founder, SureForth Insurance Consultancy
Migle highlighted the critical role of risk management and insurance in freight operations. Her insights revealed how women are innovating in compliance, protection, and strategic planning within the logistics ecosystem.

· Dina Zuhair Awad – Logistics Commercial Senior Manager, Milaha
Dina shared her experience managing commercial logistics across the GCC, advocating for more inclusive hiring practices and mentorship programs to support women in operational roles.

· Tania Galli – Legal Director & Board Member, Universal Africa Lines B.V.

Tania brought a legal and strategic lens to the panel, emphasizing the importance of regulatory clarity, maritime law, and inclusive leadership in shaping resilient logistics ecosystems. Her appointment to UAL’s board reflects her deep expertise in West African trade corridors and her commitment to empowering women in global logistics.

These voices, united on stage at CTW, are not just participating in logistics—they’re shaping its future. Their stories reflect the growing momentum of women in freight tech, and platforms like Goods2Load are helping amplify that impact.

Breaking Barriers: Challenges Women Face in Logistics

Despite growing representation, women in logistics still face systemic challenges:

Gender Bias in Hiring: Operational roles like freight dispatch and warehouse management are often perceived as male-dominated.
Limited Access to Leadership: Few women reach executive roles despite growing participation.
Work-Life Balance: Logistics demands long hours and travel, which can be difficult without flexible policies.
Lack of Mentorship: Women need mentors who understand logistics and can guide career growth.

CTW Global emphasized mentorship as a key driver of inclusion—something platforms like Goods2Load actively support through internships and industry engagement.

Freight Tech: A Gateway for Women in Logistics

Technology is leveling the playing field. As logistics shifts from manual operations to digital platforms, women are finding new opportunities in:

Freight Intelligence
AI-powered routing and dispatch
Carbon tracking and ESG compliance
Reverse logistics and circular supply chains

Goods2Load offers freight tech solutions that empower women to lead, innovate, and collaborate—making logistics more inclusive and data-driven.

The Role of Education & Mentorship

CTW Global emphasized the importance of education in breaking barriers. Universities, vocational institutes, and corporate training programs must:

Offer logistics and freight tech courses tailored for women
Provide mentorship opportunities with industry leaders
Promote internships and experiential learning at events like CTW
Encourage cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange

Goods2Load actively supports mentorship and education—partnering with institutions and offering internships that expose women to freight intelligence, sustainability, and strategic logistics.

Policy & Inclusion: What UAE Businesses Must Do

To foster gender diversity in logistics, UAE companies must:

Implement Inclusive Hiring Practices
Offer Flexible Work Models
Create Leadership Pathways
Celebrate Success
Partner with Freight Tech Platforms like Goods2Load

Strategic Recommendations for Industry Leaders

To accelerate gender diversity in UAE logistics, industry leaders should:

Sponsor Women at Events Like CTW Global
Invest in Freight Tech Training
Build Inclusive Supply Chains
Track Diversity Metrics
Celebrate Role Models

Conclusion: Women Are the Future of Freight

The logistics industry in the UAE is evolving—and women are leading the charge. From freight tech platforms to customs desks, from CTW Global panels to smart warehouses, women are breaking barriers and building smarter supply chains.

Platforms like Goods2Load are not just enabling freight—they’re enabling inclusion. By combining technology, mentorship, and strategic vision, they’re helping women rise, lead, and redefine logistics in the Emirates and beyond

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

0 Comments