We usually lose motivation to work and build something meaningful when faced with adversities. But sometimes, we come across stories of people who used those obstacles as their main source of inspiration and motivation. Sabrina Benalia’s life story is a perfect example of this as she epitomizes resilience, determination, and the indomitable spirit of a woman who transformed adversity into opportunity. In this interview, we had the opportunity to talk with Sabrina, lovingly referred to as Sabreen in the UAE who, At the age of 32, is a Women Entrepreneur, who has not only triumphed over a challenging battle with breast cancer but has also emerged as a successful businesswoman making waves in the dynamic landscape of Dubai.
A Triumph Over Adversity: The Breast Cancer Journey
Through the arduous battle, Sabreen not only conquered cancer but also discovered an entrepreneurial spirit within herself. The experience became the catalyst for her metamorphosis from a cancer survivor to a businesswoman, driven by a vision to build an empire for her family.
“At 24, with a young family and financial challenges, my life changed drastically with a breast cancer diagnosis in 2016. Refusing to succumb to the echoes of ‘death,’ I fought for my son, who was just 11 months old at the time.” Sabrina shared when talking about the impact learning about her cancer diagnoses had in her life.
“As I left the clinic with the diagnosis, tears streamed down my face in the taxi. But I denied the illness, convincing myself I wasn’t sick because I felt physically fine, it was just the doctors saying otherwise. Then it hit me: ‘Stop your tears!’ If I had to face mortality, what legacy would I leave for my son? Nothing! Absolutely nothing!
From that moment, I vowed not to leave without securing his future, without fighting to heal, and without becoming a true businesswoman. Unbeknownst to me, I was burying the old Sabrina to make way for a new one, ready to conquer everything in the World.” Sabrina shared with us.
“Enduring a challenging two-year journey juggling cancer, business, and life, I’ll share the highs and lows in my upcoming book. Recently, surpassing the 5-year remission mark, I am now completely cured by God’s grace.” Sabrina added.
Entrepreneurial Success: Building a Business Empire in Dubai
“During my chemotherapy, supported by my family, I launched my first company in France. With two phones, a notebook, and a pen, I signed contracts on WhatsApp between vomits. The medical team dubbed me ‘Batman the superhero’ as I showed up to treatments in makeup, a black suit, and a black cape, declaring that I came for the treatment but wasn’t sick.
After each chemo session, the next 48 hours were tough. Physically weakened, but mentally stronger, I stayed in my room, working. None of my clients suspected anything; I closed even bigger deals.”
Today, Sabreen is the founder and CEO of Hollysmile Dubai which offers affordable aesthetic dental care and leads MZ BusinessCom, a venture that seamlessly blends influencer marketing and e-commerce. As International Director of Strategic Relations, she fosters business ties between Europe and the UAE, contributing to international development.
Revolutionizing Smiles By Offering Affordable Aesthetic Dental Care
Sabrina discusses with us about the significance of affordable aesthetic dental care, particularly in contrast to the high costs in France and Europe in general. Emphasizing the Hollysmile Dubai commitment to quality work, Sabrina highlighted the substantial reduction in prices, efficient procedures, and the resulting success in attracting a higher number of patients. She also mentioned the marketing efforts by the associated company, “MZ BusinessCom,” showcasing a strategic approach to filling schedules and increasing patient intake.
“I believe, and I need to verify, that we are the number 1 French-speaking clinic in Dubai for Hollywood smiles. Dubai exudes safety, automatically reassuring the patient in a city like this. It’s a delight for our European patients to achieve their new smiles while enjoying the sea, desert, and a modern, safe, fantastic city that is tolerant, with buildings and a skyline like nowhere else. Dubai is, for me, the best place in the world!” Sabrina Shared when talking about her main goal with her clinic.
The clinic is becoming a reference in the field and has been awarded several significant trophies, representing a major honor for her. Hollysmile Dubai By BeautifyMe has also been the top choice for over 65 international footballers in 2023 for their dental care.
A Vision for Strategic Partnerships in Europe and the Middle East
Sabrina has also a role and responsibilities as the International Director of Strategic Relations for the private office of H.H Sheikh Ali Al Saeed Al Maktoum in the European sector.
“As the International Director of Strategic Relations for H.H Sheikh Ali Al Saeed Al Maktoum’s private office in Europe, I’m honored by the trust placed in me. My commitment involves navigating cultural and economic differences, opening new markets, and fostering partnerships between our office and European companies. Looking ahead, I aim to deepen mutual understanding and identify sectors for joint innovation, serving as a bridge for international expansion and collaboration in 2024.”
The Crypto Enthusiast: A New Dimension to Success
Sabreen’s success story takes a modern twist with her involvement in the world of cryptocurrency. Financial investments in cryptocurrency have become a significant turning point in her life, showcasing her adaptability to emerging trends and technologies in the financial landscape.
“Investing in cryptocurrency has been a true revelation. Cryptocurrency presents future financial potential with opportunities for rapid growth. My advice to prospective investors is to prioritize staying informed and remain attentive to market trends. My own experience in cryptocurrencies has enhanced my business flexibility.”
“Women hesitant to enter the cryptocurrency space may be deterred by the lack of female representation and the perceived complexity of blockchain technology. However, this perception changes when one decides to learn. Encouraging women to overcome these fears involves creating learning spaces. Highlighting successful women in the crypto industry can inspire and demonstrate that this sphere is not exclusively reserved for men.” she added.
Sabrana’s journey is an inspiring narrative of triumph over adversity, embodying resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of success.
From facing a daunting breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 24 to emerging as a thriving entrepreneur in Dubai, Sabreen has not only conquered personal challenges but has also made significant strides in the business world.
The future, as she anticipates with enthusiasm, holds even more promise with numerous projects in the pipeline. Her highly anticipated book will be for all the women around the world going through cancer or other illnesses and, according to her, “it serves as an additional motivation for this fighting. I want to help, I want to share, I want to inspire, and most importantly, I want to support these women in believing in hope.”
