Welcome to Tekview, where we delve into the narratives of trailblazing individuals shaping the business landscape. Today, we are honoured to be in conversation with Fara Abdullah, the dynamic CEO of Bitsmedia.
Fara is the driving force behind Bitsmedia, renowned for its groundbreaking Muslim Pro app, a global phenomenon with an impressive 150 million downloads. Additionally, she spearheads Qalbox, a Muslim entertainment streaming service that’s making waves in the digital realm.
Join us as we gain insights from Fara Abdullah’s unique perspective on juggling the complexities of leadership and technology, unravelling the strategies that fuel her success.
- Welcome to this Interview, Fara. We have heard a lot of wonderful things about you, but before we jump into it, can you give us a short intro about yourself?
Hello, I’m Fara Abdullah, CEO of Bitsmedia, the developer behind Muslim Pro, a leading Muslim lifestyle app with an impressive 150 million downloads globally, along with Qalbox, our Muslim entertainment streaming service.
Aside from leading Bitsmedia, I’m also a devoted mother to three wonderful girls. Balancing the responsibilities of steering an innovative tech company with the joyful chaos of family life is a skill I’ve honed over time. Effective time management and strong support systems at home and in the workplace are fundamental to these dual roles.
Maintaining a balance between professional commitments and personal life is paramount. It’s about striking a balance through efficient time allocation and fostering a support network, enabling me to excel in both worlds.
- Moving on, it’s time to hear how you started your career and where you are now!
My journey into the business world began early on, surrounded by influential female entrepreneurs who served as inspiring role models. Coming from a family deeply rooted in the culinary realm as restaurateurs and caterers, I was immersed in the vibrant landscape of restaurants, cafes, and food exhibition events. These experiences, such as participating in various food exhibitions like Wedding Catering and Lifestyle Exhibitions at the Expo Convention in Singapore, offered an invaluable understanding of entrepreneurship.
This upbringing laid a strong foundation for my chosen career path. From 18, I embarked on a trajectory spanning marketing and business development across diverse industries. I’ve traversed fields from publishing to Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) and eventually found my niche in the tech industry. Each step has been a building block, contributing to the skill set and expertise I bring to my current role as CEO at Bitsmedia.
- From Business Development to a Co-CEO, how would you explain your journey to our audience?
My professional journey has been an unexpected adventure, full of twists and turns. Transitioning from the role of Business Development Director across multiple markets to assuming the position of CEO at a global tech company was a significant shift.
Despite this transition, my belief in technology as a catalyst for societal advancement has always been steadfast. I’ve long considered the tech industry a driving force capable of propelling communities into the future. My aspiration to contribute to this movement, particularly in guiding and empowering the modern Muslim through technological means in practicing our faith, was pivotal.
The prospect of leading Bitsmedia presented an opportunity to enact this vision. Additionally, witnessing women occupying pivotal roles in core engineering and development for iOS and Android platforms at Bitsmedia was inspiring and motivating.
- At Bitsmedia, how do you see the two sub-brands Qalbox and Muslim Pro in the industry?
Our primary focus at Bitsmedia remains on solidifying Muslim Pro’s position as the premier digital platform for Muslims worldwide. Continuous enhancements, localization efforts, strategic collaborations, technological advancements, and active community engagement are central to our dedication to improving our services continually.
Recognizing that Islam is not merely a religion but a comprehensive way of life, encompassing our entire lifestyle, we understood the critical role of content expansion within our app.
Our goal is for Muslim Pro to serve as the digital hub for all facets of Muslim life. Qalbox allows us to showcase diverse depictions of the Muslim experience while educating, entertaining, and informing our subscribers through varied content formats.
Our efforts with Qalbox have been recognized with the ‘User Satisfaction’ award at the Google APAC App Summit 2022, affirming our commitment to listening to user feedback and addressing a specific need within the Muslim community.
- What are your thoughts on Muslim Entertainment as an industry? How do you envision its future?
The realm of Muslim Entertainment is a vibrant space where creativity intertwines with cultural narratives, appealing to diverse audiences. Its future holds immense promise and potential for growth.
Qalbox was born out of a stark realisation revealed by reports such as The Muslim Blueprint. Despite Muslims making up 25% of the world’s population, only a mere 1% of TV characters represent the richness of our community. This underrepresentation demonstrates the need for platforms like Qalbox, which aims to bridge this gap by offering a dedicated space for authentic Muslim stories.
The statistics from The Muslim Blueprint also shed light on the challenges faced in film and television, where Muslims often find themselves portrayed in stereotypical roles. On film, 39% of Muslims are depicted as perpetrators of violence, while 53.7% are portrayed as targets of violence. Television, unfortunately, often relegates 60.2% of Muslim characters to inconsequential roles.
In the future, I see Muslim entertainment as a storytelling powerhouse, breaking boundaries and fostering understanding. Qalbox was created as a platform for Muslim storytellers and creatives to take control of the narrative – it seeks to rectify the imbalance in representation, dispelling misconceptions, and fostering a global appreciation for the depth and beauty of Muslim narratives. Qalbox is proud to be a part of this transformative narrative, striving to amplify the voices that have long been underrepresented in mainstream media.
- What future do you see for yourself and the brands that you are a part of.
Looking ahead, the future for myself and the brands within the Bitsmedia family is a journey marked by innovation, user-centric experiences, and meaningful impact.
One pivotal direction is our integration of AI capabilities. In this rapidly evolving technological landscape, incorporating AI isn’t just a strategic move; it’s a dedication to delivering smarter, personalised experiences. This approach allows us to cater to the evolving needs of our users.
Content expansion is another focal point. Beyond being a streaming service, we aim to establish Qalbox as the primary platform for authentic Muslim stories. Our vision is to curate a mosaic of narratives that authentically represent the rich diversity of Muslim cultures worldwide.
Concurrently, we’re passionate about enhancing the educational aspects of both Muslim Pro and Qalbox. Muslim Pro has been at the forefront of providing a comprehensive digital experience for global Muslims. Moving forward, our focus elevates it further, making it an invaluable resource for learning and personal growth.
For us and our brands, the future embodies adaptability, technological innovation, and unwavering dedication to enhancing user lives. It’s a journey blending innovation with purpose, and we’re excited about the positive impact we can create as we evolve and expand.
- What is one thing that you would change in the business world if you got the chance?
If given the opportunity to make a transformative change in the business world, I would advocate for a widespread commitment among businesses to take a more active and impactful stance on social and humanitarian causes. Beyond pursuing profits, companies should recognize their moral duty to contribute positively to society. At Bitsmedia, we’ve embraced this ethos through past collaborations with UNICEF and our ongoing fundraiser with the PCRF (Palestine Children’s Relief Fund). These initiatives underscore our belief that businesses can and should be a force for good, using their influence and communities to address pressing global issues.
Imagine a business landscape where success isn’t solely measured by financial metrics but also by the positive social impact a company creates. Businesses can be pivotal in addressing challenges like education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability by engaging in meaningful collaborations and initiatives. This shift in perspective is not just about corporate social responsibility; it’s about recognizing that businesses profoundly influence the communities they serve. Making a difference is not merely an option; it’s an ethical obligation we owe to the larger society we operate within.
- Can you give some inspiring words to young professionals that look towards people like you.
As a female CEO in tech, a mother, and someone who is unapologetically Muslim, I offer this: Embrace your uniqueness. Your diverse experiences and perspectives are not a hindrance but a source of strength. In a world that increasingly values diversity, being at the intersection of these identities equips you with powerful skills and insights. Challenge assumptions about what a leader in tech should look like, and forge your own path—my own journey took unexpected turns, and that’s what made it uniquely mine.
Furthermore, embrace continuous learning. I stepped into the tech world with limited prior experience, and it’s a reminder that the ability to adapt and learn is a valuable skill in this ever-evolving industry. Set priorities that align with your values, strive for quality in your professional and personal pursuits, and remember that being a dedicated parent is not a hindrance but an integral part of your identity that can enhance your leadership skills. The world needs more professionals who bring their authentic selves to the table, and I am confident that the next generation will continue to break barriers and redefine success on their own terms.
- Thank you so much Fara, it was lovely talking to you! Do you have any final words?
Thank you for the engaging questions! As we enter 2024, I’m thrilled to share that it’s a momentous time for Muslim Pro and Qalbox. Some exciting changes and developments in the pipeline will elevate our platforms to new heights.
Our vision is clear: we aim to be the digital home for all things Muslim. Whether it’s the holistic lifestyle experience offered by Muslim Pro or the diverse, enriching content on Qalbox, we are committed to creating spaces that resonate with the global Muslim community.
As we navigate this journey, we’re not just witnessing change but actively shaping it. From innovative features to expansive content offerings, our goal is to provide a comprehensive and authentic digital experience for Muslims worldwide. I invite everyone to stay tuned for the incredible transformations and enhancements on the horizon.
Ending Note:
Wrapping up our interview with Fara Abdullah, her story resonates as a guide for aspiring leaders, highlighting that success is not just about milestones but the ability to navigate the joyful chaos of both professional and personal spheres. From her entrepreneurial journey to advocating for her aspirations when it comes to the Muslim entertainment industry, we appreciate Fara for sharing her wisdom, and eagerly anticipate the continued impact of her vision in the dynamic tech landscape and beyond.
