From 2016 to 2024, the UN Global Compact celebrated the remarkable efforts of business professionals who are driving positive change by advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and embodying the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact. These individuals, known as SDG Pioneers, played a crucial role in inspiring action and showcasing the power of business to create a sustainable future for all. These pioneers, regardless of their role, are still setting ambitious SDG targets, expanding their impact, and championing a principles-based approach within their companies.
Through a rigorous selection process comprising both Local and Global Rounds, we recognized individuals who exemplify dedication, innovation, and leadership in advancing the SDGs.
An annual recognition program by the UN Global Compact celebrating business professionals who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and dedication in advancing one or more of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their work and advocacy.
To spotlight individuals who embed the SDGs and the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact into corporate strategies, inspiring peers and demonstrating how business can be a force for sustainable development.
Mennatullah was recognized as one of only twelve SDG Pioneers globally in 2024, representing large national and multinational companies in Africa. This prestigious recognition highlights her exceptional leadership in embedding sustainability across Hassan Allam Holding, one of Egypt’s leading engineering and construction firms. Her work has been instrumental in aligning the company’s operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly by integrating sustainability into infrastructure and real estate projects across the built environment sector. Under her guidance, the company has advanced initiatives that prioritize energy efficiency, resource optimization, and socially inclusive development.
With a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and social impact, Mennatullah continues to lead efforts to transform Egypt’s construction industry through sustainable design, green building practices, and responsible project delivery. She advocates for community-focused development, ensuring that projects not only meet technical and economic standards but also contribute to the well-being of local communities. Her influence extends beyond her company, as she collaborates with stakeholders across sectors to accelerate Egypt’s transition toward a more sustainable and resilient built environment.
Hanaa Helmy, founding CEO of the EFG Hermes Foundation in Cairo, leads impactful initiatives that improve lives across Egypt through sustainable development, poverty alleviation, disease prevention, and youth empowerment. Under her leadership, the foundation has partnered with government, civil society, and the private sector on major initiatives, including a $3.7 million sustainable development project benefiting 60,000 underserved citizens with infrastructure, education, and job opportunities. A notable example is a university-based campaign to curb Hepatitis C among Egyptian youth. Hanaa’s commitment to holistic development aligns closely with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact.
At EFG Hermes, Hanaa developed a comprehensive ESG strategy and a sustainability framework rooted in responsible business conduct. Her efforts led to the firm becoming the first Egyptian financial services company to sign the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). To maintain transparency and global alignment, EFG Hermes issues annual sustainability and Communication on Progress (CoP) reports, while actively promoting its CSR work through internal and public platforms. Hanaa also contributes to broader industry efforts through her role on the Egyptian Stock Exchange’s Sustainability Advisory Committee.
Dina Sherif is the cofounder of Ahead of the Curve (ATC), a social enterprise launched in 2012 to tackle development challenges in the Arab region by promoting sustainable business practices and inclusive market growth. With a belief in the power of market-driven solutions, Dina has worked to position the private sector as a key player in creating decent jobs and enabling social innovation. Through ATC, she leads initiatives focused on ESG consulting, sustainability audits, and capacity building to improve corporate responsibility. She also supports women’s leadership and economic participation, advocating for more inclusive and sustainable business ecosystems.
To scale social innovation, Dina launched Entrepreneurship with Impact Ventures (EwIV), a subsidiary that offers training programs and early-stage funding for social entrepreneurs. Its flagship boot camp, ‘The Impact,’ has supported over 120 entrepreneurs across major Arab cities, with plans to expand its reach. EwIV is also developing a national platform in Egypt to support inclusive business models by helping corporations engage low-income communities in their supply chains. Beyond ATC, Dina serves on Egypt’s presidential economic advisory committee and directs the Center for Entrepreneurship at The American University in Cairo. Her leadership has earned her several honors, including the Eisenhower Women’s Leadership Fellowship and the AmCham Egypt Best Woman Entrepreneur award.
