Head of Global DEI, ARM
“From personal experience, mentoring others has allowed me to deeper self-reflection while sharing the lessons learned from my experiences.“
What qualities make a “Moves Mentor”?
A Moves Mentor is an enabler of others – others to realize their own greatness. They lead with intention, not ego. They listen deeply, share openly, and know when to guide and when to step back. At their core, they’re an amplifier—of talent, of courage, of possibility. invest in people without needing the credit, and they hold space for others to rise.
How can mentorship help bridge the gap between generations in the workplace, and what challenges arise from these differences?
Mentorship is built on trust, shared wisdom and growth. This is a great way to learn from one another to gain perspectives shaped by the generation(s) both parties (mentor and mentee) identify with. This can be a great opportunity to ask questions and dig deeper into the perspectives and values shaped by society and events of the time.
If done with the intention of curiosity and care, will build one’s empathy and allow for greater understanding. The challenge lies in unlearning assumptions—on both sides. We often carry unconscious assumptions about those older or younger than us but when we lead with curiosity and openness, we create room for empathy, innovation and connection.
How does mentoring benefit the mentor? Career-wise? Intellectually? Spiritually? Socially?
Mentoring is a two-way street. From personal experience, mentoring others has allowed me to deeper self-reflection while sharing the lessons learned from my experiences. Career-wise, mentoring has sharpened my leadership skills and enhanced my emotional intelligence and empowered me to consider additional viewpoints and my strategic understanding of a given topic. Intellectually It challenges me to articulate and evolve my own thinking and understanding of how others see the world. Spiritually, it reconnects me to my greater purpose. Socially, it helps me further empathy and inclusion for others and broadens my lens on the world.
Given that all personalities are different, what are some of the things you do to motivate your mentees?
In order to motivate others, you have to learn what motivates and drives them first so that they believe what success looks like and whether they believe they deserve to be successful. Overall, I motivate them by acknowledging how far they’ve come, how much they’ve grown, the lessons they’ve learned. Teaching them how the journey is part of the success versus just focusing on final outcomes.
With the knock on Gen Z not being too receptive to following instructions and/or being told what to do, do you believe in constructive criticism as a vital means of mentoring/teaching?
I believe every generation has similar beliefs about the generation preceding them–meaning the Silent Generation believed the same of the Babyboomers, and in turn, they believed the same of Gen-X, and the cycle continues.
Constructive criticism or difficult feedback can be hard to give and even harder to receive. I believe it is crucial to be intentional with what you say and how you say it followed by appropriate examples and context. must provide feedback in a caring and non-judgmental way in order to build instead of tear down. My approach is to offer reflection, not criticism. When done with clarity, compassion, and context, constructive feedback becomes a catalyst for growth.
As part of your mentoring style, are you always using the latest teaching methods and/or do you bring into the fold things you were taught that would work on today’s employees?
Active listening, curiosity and care never go out of style. I also embrace technology, neuroscience, and adaptive learning tools that align with the individual’s personality, interests and goals. I bring forward what resonates for me and what I believe would resonate with the individual.
How has your mentoring style evolved?
It has matured from being advice-driven to being inquiry-driven. Early on, I felt pressured to know all the answers and provide the mentee with fool-proof answers. Now, I focus on asking better questions based on understanding their journey. I’ve learned that true mentorship is about guiding someone back to their own wisdom. It’s less about shaping them and more about helping them see and shine their own light.
How do you know if your mentoring is working? Are there things you look for early on that make you instantly recognize progress?
Don’t allow anyone to dim your light—your light will help shine the way for others. Keep showing up with heart, integrity and faith, the rest will unfold. Not everyone is for you or will like you and that’s perfectly okay. Rest is not a reward. It’s a right!
What was a defining moment or experience in your life that led you to where you are today?
My family and I came to the U.S. as refugees from Iran. That experience shaped everything: navigating spaces where I didn’t feel seen, heard, or accepted taught me how deeply people need belonging. It’s the reason I mentor, advocate, and lead the way I do.
Should higher education be prioritized over work experience or a mix of both?
It depends on the path, but ideally, a blend of both. Lived experience brings depth that no textbook can offer, and formal education can provide structure and tools. The magic happens when both come together.
What one unbreakable rule works for you?
Always act in alignment with your values and with integrity. That’s my non-negotiable.
What’s your biggest fear?
That I might unintentionally dim the light within my children—instead of helping them see, trust, and fully shine their own.
Who do you yell at in the quiet of your head?
Myself—especially when self-doubt sneaks in. But I’m learning to replace that voice with compassion.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I’d give people the ability to see and believe in their own greatness. The kind that helps them break free from fear and step into their full potential.
What’s the most challenging thing you’ve ever overcome?
Learning to love and accept my full self including the parts shaped by pain, culture, and experiences of not belonging. Reclaiming my voice and using it to empower others has been the hardest and most healing thing I’ve ever done.
What’s your definition of a perfect day?
A day filled with laughter and connection, and knowing I’ve made a small difference in someone’s life. If I can feel present, purposeful, and at peace—that’s the perfect day.