On the occasion of the International Women’s Day 2024, we wanted to emphasize on a special topic globally – Women Entrepreneurs! Yes, the word has been going around for quite some time. However, it’s a topic that truly never fails to show us something valuable each time.
Women: A word with only 5 alphabets, but it depicts a meaning so deep, an emotion so strong and a dedication so beautiful. Throughout the globe, women entrepreneurs and women leaders are showcasing their talents and revolutionizing their respective industries.
In the currently fast-paced business world of the Gulf and MENA region, women are leading exceptionally. From startups to well-established businesses, each segment sees rise in female workers and leadership from time to time. According to GEM, “For start-up activity, there are .80 women for every 1 man. Globally, women were more likely than men to be solopreneurs (1.47 women solopreneurs for every 1 man).” They further mentioned, “Women represent one in four high-growth entrepreneurs globally.”
We have come across such wonderful personalities and leaders who showcase their true skills and are aiming to empower women throughout the GCC region and beyond to take that step that takes them closer to their dreams. Below are the top 10 female entrepreneurs inspiring women in the Gulf and MENA region!
1. Asma Jan Muhammad | The Finance Leader & Author
Finance and literature; both are such different terms and fields. Yet, there’s a leading womenpreneur, Asma Jan Muhammad, excelling in both the niches exceptionally combining her creativity and strategic skills. Being a Dubai-based Pakistani author and finance expert, Asma has carved a niche for herself in both fields with her unwavering dedication to excellence and continuous learning. Recently honored with the “Outstanding Leadership Award” by the CXO 2.0 Conference Dubai | USA, Asma’s contributions to the finance sector are both recognized and celebrated.
Asma’s journey in finance is marked by her strategic vision, ethical practices, and leadership skills, earning her a spot among the UAE’s Top 10 Women CFOs. Her literary works, including “Reflections” and “S.H.O.R.E. – The Ultimate Descent,” delve into themes of power dynamics and organizational transparency, reflecting her deep insights into societal structures.
As we celebrate Women’s Day, Asma’s words resonate with the call for genuine inclusion and compassion in professional environments: “Today, women are still being cast off the glass ceiling. They are facing obstacles in ascending to top positions and achieving equal opportunities for career advancement. We proclaim the importance of inclusion for collective success and sustainability, but deep inside we still hesitate. Our intentions will not merit meaningful results until our actions authentically inspire inclusion, stemming from genuine compassion rather than mere obligation.”
Asma Jan Muhammad | Chartered Accountant | Author | LinkedIn | Website
2. Dr. Rania Ayat Hawayek | The Healthcare Visionary
Dr. Rania Ayat Hawayek stands out as one of the top 10 women entrepreneurs in the region, thanks to her visionary leadership and commitment to revolutionizing healthcare delivery. As the founder and CEO of Circle Care Clinic, she has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial acumen, transforming her vision into a thriving reality. Dr. Rania’s innovative approach to healthcare, coupled with her deep understanding of patient needs, has positioned Circle Care Clinic as a pioneer in the industry.
Dr. Rania’s journey is marked by resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite challenges, she remains steadfast in her mission to redefine healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. Her ability to navigate complex market dynamics highlights her exceptional leadership.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Rania’s commitment to social impact and community empowerment sets her apart as a trailblazer among women entrepreneurs. She has used her platform at Circle Care Clinic to champion social causes, including healthcare accessibility, women’s empowerment, and community development.
Reflecting on women’s empowerment, Dr. Rania states, “Empowering women is not just a matter of equity; it’s the foundation of a healthier and more prosperous society. When we uplift women, we uplift humanity.”
Dr. Rania | LinkedIn | Website
3. Olivia Kalwani | Ethical Beauty Innovator and Empowering Leader
When we talk about the business world where womenpreneurs are taking the competitive edge, the name of Olivia Kalwani stands out. As the Founder of Okka Beauty Trading Co. LLC, she has not only carved a niche in the skincare industry but also set a benchmark for sustainable and ethical business practices. Olivia’s journey from an entry-level position to the founder of a thriving company shows her true dedication, passion and hardwork – all of which are important mindsets that a real leader needs to have.
Under her leadership, Okka Beauty is leading when it comes to personalized skincare, offering a range of products that cater to diverse needs while championing vegan and cruelty-free values.
On the occasion of Women’s Day, Olivia’s message to aspiring female entrepreneurs resonates with power and inspiration: “Embrace your unique strengths and vision. The path of entrepreneurship is filled with challenges, but it’s our courage, creativity, and unwavering determination that pave the way for success and empowerment. Let’s continue to break barriers and build a future where every woman’s potential is realized.”
Olivia Kalwani’s story is a beacon of women’s empowerment, reminding us that with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference, women can lead the way in shaping a better, more inclusive world.
Olivia Kalwani | LinkedIn | Website | Instagram.
4. Hiral Mehta | Transformation Specialist & Business Consultant
Starting her career in the aviation industry, Hiral Mehta transitioned into the blockchain and decentralized technology, where she played a crucial role in launching an innovative trading platform. Her focus on providing transparent, efficient, and secure decentralized solutions has established her as a prominent figure in the industry.
As Hiral prepares to circle back to the aviation industry, she brings with her a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective. Her journey underscores the importance of embracing change and leveraging diverse experiences to drive innovation.
Reflecting on her path, Hiral shares, “In the echoes of my mother’s wisdom, a beacon of empowerment shines through, illuminating the path for all women. She taught me that financial independence is not just a goal but a foundation of true freedom. ‘Create opportunities, pull each other up, for in unity lies our greatest strength,’ she would say. Her life, an epitome of resilience, whispered to me the secret of success: Dream without bounds, start with the smallest step, and embody the best version of yourself. It’s not about mastery from the start but about the willingness to learn, the courage to rise after every fall, and the relentless pursuit of what you believe in. Let’s embrace this wisdom, for in every woman lies an unyielding power waiting to be unleashed.”
Hiral Mehta | LinkedIn
5. Isabelle Meyer | The Cybersecurity Trailblazer
Isabelle Meyer, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of ZENDATA Cybersecurity, has made significant strides in the cybersecurity industry with a focus on Threat Intelligence and OT Environment. Starting her career as a lawyer, Isabelle transitioned to cybersecurity, where she now leads discussions and speeches alongside industry leaders.
Under her guidance, ZENDATA has expanded its services, emphasizing sales, marketing, and employee development. The company stands out for its integrity, honesty, and proprietary products that enhance endpoint security. Isabelle measures success through research, client satisfaction, and efficient delivery, with current projects including collaborations with governments like the Cyber Security Council in Abu Dhabi.
On women’s empowerment, Isabelle states, “As a lawyer, founder, CEO, mother of three, and Swiss-Canadian living in the Middle East, I’m deeply passionate about women’s empowerment. I believe in action over words. My entire career, especially in cybersecurity and critical infrastructure, has been in a male-dominated field. Despite the comments, I’ve shown that women can multitask and get the work done. I don’t seek to be a role model because I’m a woman, but because of my knowledge. In the Middle East, women hold remarkable positions and trust, and they actively empower and support one another. I have never felt as valued, cared for, and empowered as I have when surrounded by Middle Eastern women, like those in WinCSME.I am very proud to live in the UAE and to have the chance to help other women as well.”
Isabelle Meyer | LinkedIn | Website
6. Nadine A. Jaafar | Payments Industry Professional
In a world that often seeks to limit women’s achievements, International Women’s Day is a poignant reminder of their collective strength and potential. Nadine A. Jaafar, a veteran in the payments industry, emphasizes the importance of empowering women not just by providing opportunities but by altering the narrative to celebrate their societal contributions. She has spent over two decades in the corporate realm, advocating for gender equality and nurturing a supportive work culture.
She has mentored numerous women, guiding them through their career paths, and has actively promoted their work to secure promotions and high-profile projects. She believes in the power of networking and has established groups within organizations to support women’s professional development, such as The Lawyers Business Group of Dubai. Through this group, she has organized events and forums for women to connect and support each other’s goals.
Nadine asserts, “The future looks bright for women as they gain more recognition across various industries.” She advocates for investing in women-led businesses and promoting women-owned enterprises to spur their growth. Supporting policies and initiatives that remove barriers for women entrepreneurs, including access to funding and resources, is crucial for their success.
Nadine’s journey highlights the opportunities and challenges ahead for women entrepreneurs, and she remains committed to contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future through mentorship, advocacy, and support.
Nadine A. Jaafar | LinkedIn.
7. Huma Mirza | Fashion-Forward Interior Visionary
Huma Mirza, Co-Founder of The Styling Duo, is a testament to the power of passion driving success in the world of entrepreneurship. With an impressive educational background as a gold medalist and a distinction holder in Business from a reputable UK university, Huma’s journey from the corporate sector to interior design is inspiring. Her natural aesthetic intellect and keen interest in fashion and interior design have led her to create unique and personalized spaces for clients, making The Styling Duo one of Dubai’s most sought-after interior design companies.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2024, Huma shares her views on women entrepreneurship saying, “I would define women entrepreneurship as encouraging and supporting women to be at the forefront of venturing into the world of business. In my opinion; the only pathway to success is hard work; being a keen learner and believing in one’s own self.”
Huma’s journey exemplifies the limitless possibilities for women in the entrepreneurial world. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs in the Gulf and MENA region, showcasing that with dedication, creativity, and a belief in oneself, achieving success in the business world is within reach.
Huma Mirza | LinkedIn.| instagram | Website
8. Anju Shahani | The Laughter Yoga Expert
Anju Shahani is a Professional Coach, Human Connection Enthusiast, and Laughter Yoga Expert, whose journey from the fashion industry in Russia to spreading happiness globally is truly inspiring. Anju’s transition to becoming a certified happiness coach highlights her dedication to well-being and personal growth.
Her laughter yoga classes embody her belief in the power of positivity and laughter, impacting lives worldwide. Anju’s approach has not only brought smiles but also fostered a sense of unity and well-being.
As we celebrate Women’s Day, Anju shares her views on womanhood, stating, “As a woman, my journey isn’t about perfection but embracing strength through authenticity. I value being genuine, sharing my story, and amplifying my unique voice and talents. Life unfolds with endless possibilities, where genuine strength shines. It’s about living purposefully, learning with each day, acknowledging change as constant, and moving forward in acceptance.”
Anju Shahani’s story is an inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs and leaders in the Gulf and MENA region, showcasing the power of passion combined with purpose.
Anju Shahani | LinkedIn | Instagram
9. Ekaterina Belova | The Empowered Design Innovator
Ekaterina Patalina, the visionary behind Cont de Arch, extends her gratitude to the Dubai Department of Economic Development and the DIFC for fostering an environment that encourages women’s entrepreneurial activities. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in her team, stating, “Our team’s strength lies in its diverse nationalities, allowing our product to easily meet the varied needs of our clients.”
Ekaterina highlights the unique qualities women bring to the business world, noting, “Women in business are careful, resourceful, and emotionally strong. They pay special attention to planning and time management, aiming to balance work and personal life. When a woman is inspired, she becomes a force to be reckoned with, presenting a fantastic opportunity for mutual growth and support.”
Moreover, her second company, OFFTECH.me, specializes in planning, construction, and design of office spaces, with a strong focus on adapting workspaces to meet the needs of women in the UAE.
Ekaterina Patalina | LinkedIn | OFFTECH.me | Cont de Arch
10. Colleen Thalia Jamias | Beauty Technopreneur & Cultural Trendsetter
Colleen Thalia Jamias emerges as a visionary leader, seamlessly blending her flair for interior design with her entrepreneurial spirit to create a unique niche in the beauty industry. As the Founder and CEO of COCO COLLEEctioN & Creo LifeZtyle, Colleen focuses on combining cultural elegance with innovative ideas to build on something impactful.
Colleen is revolutionizing online shopping with her e-commerce platform, Creo LifeZtyle and COCO COLLEEctioN, celebrating diversity and women’s empowerment through beauty and technology. Her resilience shines as she navigates her business through a war-torn country Yemen and adapts to the rapidly evolving beauty industry.
Her belief in the power of women is encapsulated in her words, “Women should always remember that they all started out as little princesses with ambitious dreams and later became Queens. In a game of chess, the QUEEN is the most powerful and important piece to protect the king and the kingdom just like how strong women are in the world.”
Colleen | Linkedin | Creo LifeZtyle | COCO COLLEEctioN | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Conclusion
The remarkable journeys of these top 10 women entrepreneurs in the Gulf and MENA region illuminate the diverse paths to success and the transformative impact of female leadership. From revolutionizing healthcare delivery to pioneering in the cybersecurity industry, each entrepreneur has carved out a unique niche, driven by passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Their stories are a testament to the power of women’s empowerment and the vital role of women in shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, let us draw inspiration from these trailblazers and continue to support and uplift women in their entrepreneurial endeavors, for when women thrive, humanity flourishes.
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