To mark International Women’s Day (March 8), we spotlight four women leaders at Yanolja who are shaping the global travel tech industry.

As product builders, team leaders, and pioneers of new markets, they are driving change from their respective roles.
Through this series, we share their honest stories—from the beginnings of their careers to their journeys as women leaders, and the messages they hope to pass on to the next generation.

Meet the leaders who are forging their own paths at Yanolja, where technology and travel come together.

Meet the Leaders | Yanolja’s Women in Tech

― Meital Ahdot, Yanolja Go Global CRDO(Chief Revenue and Data Officer)

Where My Journey Began

Where did your career journey begin?

My career didn’t start in a tech company. I began at one of the leading cellular companies right after graduation. It was a very male-oriented environment, especially in decision-making forums. Early on, I realized I didn’t need to be the loudest voice in the room to be heard. Instead, I focused on being clear, sharp, well-prepared, and bringing valuable insights to the table.

What were some of the challenges you faced as a female leader in tech, and what unique strengths did you discover within yourself along the way?

Over time, I discovered that one of my greatest strengths is the ability to stay composed in complex situations and break big challenges into smaller, solvable pieces. I’m not afraid to challenge assumptions, but I do it in a thoughtful way. As I grew into leadership roles, I also realized that real impact comes from empowering others, stretching my team’s abilities, encouraging them to think bigger, and helping them become the best version of themselves. That combination of calm confidence, analytical depth, and people development became my leadership style.

Why Travel Tech — Why Yanolja

What inspired you to join Yanolja—the intersection of Tech and Travel?

For me, Yanolja brings together two of the most exciting worlds: tech and travel. Travel brings joy to people’s lives—it creates memories and meaningful experiences. Being part of a company that enables those experiences, while solving complex technological and commercial challenges, feels incredibly meaningful.

What changes or possibilities excite you most about working at Yanolja?

What excites me most is turning complexity into clarity. I love analyzing and deconstructing complicated processes, identifying the real root cause (even when it’s hidden under layers of noise), and transforming insights into a strong business case. When broken processes meet good data, that’s where innovation happens. At Yanolja, I’m excited to continue building smarter revenue models, improving performance, and creating scalable impact across the group.

To the Women Who Lead Next

What is one piece of advice you’d give to future female leaders? You can think of it as something you would say to your younger self.

Be authentic. You don’t need to copy someone else’s leadership style to succeed. Your voice, your perspective, and your way of thinking are your advantage. You are unique! There is no one else like you, and that is your strength.

Believe in yourself—most of the time, you’re capable of much more than you think. Also, don’t forget to leave space for your personal life and your own growth. Leadership is a long journey; enjoy it. Smile. Be a role model not only in achievements, but in the way you treat people and in how you carry yourself through challenges.

One Word That Defines Me

If you had to define yourself in ‘one word’, what would it be?

“I’m Meital, an impact-driven strategic Problem Solver (with a smile).”

👀 LinkedIn Profile | Meital Ahdot, Yanolja Go Global CRDO