Challenging Constructively with Questioning Techniques in Multicultural Boards

Impact Boards EM are excited to continue our "Virtual Boardroom" series for 2026. These engaging members-only discussions are an opportunity for our community to meet virtually for networking and sharing knowledge on specific board themes.

This one-hour discussion will be an opportunity for members to share their knowledge and experience of having served on boards across emerging and developed markets around the world.

Our next discussion in this series will be focused on Challenging Constructively with Questioning Techniques in Multicultural Boards on Wednesday 2 December 2026 at 2pm.

Multicultural boards bring diverse perspectives that can strengthen governance and decision-making, but they can also create misunderstandings, communication barriers, and tension when different working styles and cultural norms collide. Non-executive directors often face the challenge of balancing robust debate with maintaining trust and cohesion. 

This discussion webinar will explore board culture through a coaching lens and hands-on board experience, examining how cultural differences influence behaviours, perceptions and decision-making. Particular attention will be given to situations where important insights are overlooked or dismissed, known as the Cassandra Syndrome, and how this can undermine board effectiveness. 

The panel will discuss well known pitfalls at multicultural boards, such as:  

• Delivering difficult or negative feedback with sensitivity and clarity. 

• Reading board dynamics and recognising verbal and non-verbal cues. 

• Disagreeing respectfully while preserving positive relationships. 

• Encouraging balanced, evidence-based decision-making that incorporates diverse viewpoints. 

• Overcoming entrenched cultural boundaries anchored in gender or seniority 

The panel will also examine the role of smart questioning to bridge the cultural gap in multicultural boards.  

Expect open and insightful discussions as well as the chance to make valuable connections in an informal online setting.

Moderator:

Greg Saichin - CEO & Co-Founder of Impact Boards Emerging Markets

About the Speaker:

Dr Sonya Dilova is Executive Coach and Founder of SF Vision Accelerator Coaching Ltd. She is a finance professional with over 16 years of experience in the UK asset management industry, including roles as Deputy Chief Investment Officer at Omnis and a portfolio manager at Columbia Threadneedle focusing on emerging markets fixed income. She has a strong background in investment committees, sustainable investment and diversity initiatives, with expertise in the Middle East and CIS regions.

Since 2021, Sonya has been a non-executive director and executive coach. As a coach, she is committed to helping other high achievers rediscover their passions and unapologetically pursue success.

View Sonya's LinkedIn profile here