
Rethinking NGO Digital Transformation with Small c Cuts
Digital transformation in NGOs begins the way expensive mistakes begin: a polished presentation, a room full of well-intentioned people, and a shared belief that this time
I am Ali Al Mokdad, an experienced strategic senior manager with a track record of rolling out innovative programs across challenging global environments, including remote areas, hard-to-reach locations, and conflict zones. I am esteemed for my leadership roles within International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs), United Nations (UN) agencies, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and donor institutions, demonstrating excellence in strategic planning, operations management, and spearheading organizational transformations.
I have managed operations in regions from the Middle East to Africa and Asia, including countries like Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon, Nigeria, Kenya, South Sudan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. My global expertise extends to leading cross-border operations in the Middle East and overseeing headquarters teams and the global community across a network of more than 40 countries.
I am deeply committed to promoting diversity, practicing inclusive leadership, ensuring employee well-being, and utilizing the potential of artificial intelligence and technology to enhance the operations of NGOs and drive innovative programming.

Digital transformation in NGOs begins the way expensive mistakes begin: a polished presentation, a room full of well-intentioned people, and a shared belief that this time

The smoke alarm goes off. Everyone hears it. The light is flashing. The sound is working exactly as designed. But the room breaks apart. Some

“I would love to change the world, but I don’t know what to do.” The line repeats in my headphones, slow and soft. Ten Years