Aspiring

Bhavna Nihalani’s journey with the International Apparel & Textile Fair (IATF) began with a vision to reduce the Middle East’s reliance on distant markets for textiles and apparel. Alongside her late husband, Dilip, she saw an opportunity to create a regional sourcing hub in Dubai where international suppliers could connect directly with local businesses. This…

Rania A. Al-Mashat has been an influential figure in Egypt's government since 2018, serving as the Minister of Planning, Economic Development & International Cooperation. Previously, she held the positions of Minister of International Cooperation and Minister of Tourism, showcasing her diverse expertise in economic development and international relations. With a robust background in economics,…

Dr. Kasia Sterriker stands out as a pioneer at the intersection of art and environmental science. Originally from Poland and driven by her dual passions as both artist and scientist, she has earned two PhDs in environmental engineering and landscape architecture. Early in her career, she served as a university lecturer, developed patented materials, and…

Claudia Pinto’s journey is one of resilience, compassion, and innovation. Known for her penetrating gaze and no-nonsense approach, Claudia is deeply driven by her commitment to "make the world better than I found it." Her impact in Dubai has been profound: during a global crisis, she led a non-profit initiative to feed over 10,000 workers,…

Yasmine Afifi’s journey in finance is marked by ambition, resilience, and innovation. Growing up in a family immersed in financial conversations, she developed an early curiosity for finance, inspired by her father’s and brother’s careers. With a Master’s in International Business Management, Yasmine has dedicated nearly 22 years to the financial services sector, excelling as…

Captain Aysha Alhameli, appointed as the Director General of the Air Accident Investigation Sector (ADG-AAIS) in April 2021, has made significant strides in positioning the AAIS as a globally recognized organization. Under her leadership, she has introduced strategies to enhance the authority’s standing within the global aviation community. Alhameli made history at 16 by…

Ahood Alenezi is a force to be reckoned with in the beauty industry, known for her passion, hard work, and unwavering focus on her dreams. She believes that there is an unmatched power in a woman’s confidence, and that this energy fuels her journey from an idea’s conception to its realization. In 2020, Ahood…

Lilit Avetikyan is the Founder & CEO of VOYEX, the first female-founded Private Jet and 360-Luxury Solutions company in the MENA region. As a trailblazer in an industry often dominated by men, Lilit is championing diversity and empowering women to soar to new heights in both aviation and executive leadership roles. A mother of two,…

Eng. Nermeen El Embaby, a 1993-born chemical engineering graduate, has spent over six years shaping the future of Egypt’s agribusiness sector. Since graduating in 2014, she has become a key figure in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, specializing in the innovative field of hydroponic farming. Recognizing its potential to revolutionize fresh produce farming, she has focused…

Yasmine Medhat is a passionate entrepreneur committed to supporting and empowering Egypt's local industry, with a particular focus on women and youth. As the founder of Bazarna Pop-Up Society, Egypt's leading marketplace and pop-up platform since 2010, Yasmine has been a driving force in fostering local talent and entrepreneurship. Her platform has become a dynamic…