Transforming Learning: Nathalie P Nehme- Founder of HueZ- on Passion, Innovation, and the Modernization of Talent Development in the MENA Region
Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Nathalie P Nehme, a dynamic leader and innovator in the field, with over 17 years of experience in corporate and regional roles. In this interview, she shares insights into her journey, approach to overcoming challenges, and her vision for the future of the industry.
What motivated you to enter your current field of work, and can you share some of the key milestones in your journey?
Dreams without execution are mere hallucinations, and my passion fueled my dream. After dedicating over 17 years to the corporate world, leading regional HR teams across the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) region of the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey in a fast-paced industry, I experienced significant burnout. I made the decision to step back and focus on what truly matters—my health and my passion. This led to the creation of HueZ, a beacon for innovative talent development and culture shaping.
What are the key responsibilities and challenges in your current role, and how do you manage them on a day-to-day basis?
I am entering a market rich with talent. My primary responsibility is to uphold HueZ’s guiding principles, ensuring that participants leave every learning journey with practical, impactful knowledge and memorable experiences. Through global partnerships , HueZ brings the best learning experience to the region, modernizing our approach to meet the evolving global landscape.
What emerging trends or innovations in your industry excite you the most, and why?
Gamification and innovative learning techniques are transformative in our industry, as they allow participants to grasp concepts hands-on rather than solely through flipcharts. Research shows that traditional PowerPoint presentations yield retention rates of around 20-30% after a few days, while gamified experiences can enhance retention significantly, reaching 60-80%. Gamification, through interactive elements, competition, and rewards, deepens engagement and strengthens learning. Nathalie P Nehme is a certified LEGO® Serious Play® methodology Facilitator and an Insights® Discovery practitioner and partner across the Middle East; such innovative tools that help in the Self-Discovery journeys and brings in the best of every participant outside his/her comfort zone.
What major obstacles have you encountered in your career, and how did you successfully address and overcome them?
One of the significant obstacles was resistance from senior leaders regarding gamification and innovative learning methods. However, once they experienced it firsthand, their perspectives shifted, and I received overwhelmingly positive feedback.
What accomplishment are you most proud of in your professional journey, and what impact did it have on your career or organization?
Transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship was challenging. Self-awareness played a critical role in this shift, helping me navigate both calm and stormy days. During quieter periods, I focused on content creation, networking, and setting business development goals. I also prioritized energy management, aligning my physical, emotional, and mental well-being with my business commitments. This approach allowed me to optimize productivity, maintain high energy levels while in action and sharing content with brilliant minds.
What essential skills or qualities do you believe are necessary for success in your field, and how can aspiring professionals develop them?
Three key pillars have driven my success: fueling my passion, building practical wisdom and learning materials, and maintaining energy radiance in every project. Business partners value transparency and adaptability; at HueZ, we align with these values to craft personalized solutions for our clients.
In what ways do you think AI and technology will transform your industry, and what is your organization doing to prepare for these changes?
While online workshops have gained popularity, I still believe that human interaction, especially in the MENA region, remains invaluable in learning and expertise sharing. Post-COVID, organizations have adopted hybrid setups to encourage collaboration and empathy. Although AI offers enhanced efficiency and insights, it cannot replace emotional intelligence and interpersonal connection. Our approach balances AI’s capabilities with the irreplaceable value of human connection, fostering a positive and engaged workplace culture.
What are your long-term objectives for your career and your organization, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Consistency is my greatest asset. Success requires us to be what most others are not—innovative and committed. My goal is to maintain a consistent effort, reinforcing positive habits and momentum. By staying attuned to my physical and emotional well-being, I can remain dedicated to my dream. Within just nine months, we have impacted 300 participants in five Middle Eastern countries. I am immensely grateful to my partners who have joined this journey of growth, while others observe from the platform. I live by my slogan: “Dance with Passion to the Rhythm of Growth!”
Nathalie P. Nehme offers invaluable insights into navigating challenges, embracing innovation, and maintaining consistency in a competitive field. Her journey exemplifies agility , self-awareness, and a passion for impactful learning, leaving us inspired to pursue our own paths with equal dedication and commitment.
To know more about Nathalie P. Nehme; http://www.linkedin.com/in/nathalienehme
To know more about HueZ; http://www.linkedin.com/company/huezworld/
