LOBNA HELAL: VOYAGE OF SIGHT AND INTEGRITY

Lobna Helal’s journey in the financial sector is a testament to her leadership and dedication to advancing Egypt’s economy. Her appointment as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) marked a historic milestone, making her the first woman in this position. Recognized by Forbes as one of the most powerful Arab women, Helal has played an integral role in shaping Egypt’s financial landscape, particularly through her contributions to banking reforms and monetary stability. 

Helal’s career at the CBE began in 2004, transitioning from the private sector, where she had an investment banking background. She was instrumental in implementing a comprehensive two-phase banking sector reform program, which strengthened Egypt’s financial institutions. During her tenure as Deputy Governor, she focused on monetary stability, ensuring price stability and confidence in the Egyptian pound’s value. This leadership role not only solidified her influence within Egypt but also enhanced the global reputation of the CBE. 

Her advocacy for financial inclusion has been particularly impactful. Helal has championed initiatives to empower women and underserved populations, aligning financial access with sustainable development goals. Notably, she has supported small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by developing frameworks that improve their access to financial resources, recognizing these businesses as pivotal drivers of economic growth. 

Beyond her technical expertise, Helal is a vocal proponent of gender equality in the banking sector. She has prioritized creating a gender-sensitive infrastructure within the CBE, including leadership programs designed to mentor and promote women to executive positions. Her role as Vice Chair of the Gender and Women Financial Inclusion Committee under the Alliance for Financial Inclusion underscores her international commitment to empowering women financially and professionally.

Helal’s achievements extend beyond Egypt. Her active participation in global forums has placed her as a significant figure in the conversation around women’s roles in the financial sector. She has consistently highlighted the importance of blending modern financial practices with traditional values, fostering a financial ecosystem that respects Egypt’s cultural heritage while embracing innovation. 

A proud alumna of the American University in Cairo (AUC), Helal credits her success to a robust educational foundation and mentorship from influential professors. Her academic journey in political science and economics laid the groundwork for her dual focus on technical excellence and leadership. She has often acknowledged the role of supportive leaders and her family, particularly in balancing the demands of a high-profile career and personal life.