You probably know of rising SEO star Areej AbuAli from her work leading the Women in Tech SEO[1] (WTS) community, for her presentations at conferences like SMX or BrightonSEO, or for her insightful and informative tweets[2]. And now, we're so excited to welcome her to the MozCon Virtual stage for the first time! 

Before the show, we talked with Areej about the success of WTS, what drew her to SEO, and what viewers can look forward to in her MozCon presentation. 

Read the full interview below, and don't forget to grab your ticket to see Areej and our other amazing speakers at MozCon Virtual 2021: 

Secure Your Seat[3]

An illustration Ringmaster Roger in the MozCon Virtual big top tent spotlighting SEO Consultant Areej AbuAli.

Question: 2020 was quite the year, what were you up to this past year? Any surprises or favorite projects you worked on?

Areej: Yes, it was definitely quite a year! I have a lot to be grateful for. I'm healthy, I have a job, and I'm surrounded by people I love. I know it's not the same for others. 

In terms of my favorite 2020 project, I managed to host the first full-day Women in Tech SEO Festival right before lockdown (I'm extremely lucky!). It took place in London in honor of International Women's Day. I spent eight months organizing it from my dining table and I couldn't be happier with how it went. 

Post-lockdown, I focused on our global community and I launched a number of community initiatives including WTSWorkshop, WTSPodcast, WTSNewsletter, and more. I made the most out of the time that was no longer lost in commuting to the office and I'm proud of how much the community grew during that period.

Question: You’ve been running the Women in Tech SEO group for about two years now. What inspired you to start

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