Sima Ganwani Ved’s story is one of empowerment, resilience, and dedication to making a difference. As the Founder and Chairwoman of the Apparel Group, a retail powerhouse based in the UAE, Sima has not only shattered glass ceilings but has also become a beacon of hope for women in business across the globe.
Born into a family with a rich entrepreneurial legacy, Sima was raised in Dubai, where she looked up to her father, Mr. Lal Ganwani, the owner of Lal’s Group, with admiration and awe. After completing her studies in business management at King’s College London, Sima decided to follow in her father’s footsteps and join the family business.
Her early experiences working at her father’s mall in the UAE provided Sima with invaluable sales experience and the confidence to pursue her own entrepreneurial ventures. Teaming up with her husband Nilesh Ved, Sima embarked on a journey to establish her own retail empire.
Today, as the Vice Chairperson of the Apparel Group, Sima oversees a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate with over 80 international brands and more than 2025 stores across 14 countries. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to innovation have propelled the Apparel Group to new heights, making it one of the largest retailers in the Middle East.
But Sima’s influence extends far beyond the boardroom. A true philanthropist at heart, she has dedicated herself to giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives. Sima’s passion for supporting underprivileged children led her to volunteer with the Children’s Hope Foundation (CHF) for several years, where she worked tirelessly to create opportunities for those in need.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to society, Sima was honored with The Global Gift Philantropreneur Award by Eva Longoria in 2016. This prestigious award not only celebrated Sima’s philanthropic endeavors but also highlighted her unwavering commitment to changing lives on a global scale.
Inspired by trailblazing women such as Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Malala Yousafzai, Sima continues to advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality in all aspects of her life. Her dedication to becoming a role model for future generations is evident in her tireless pursuit of excellence and her unwavering determination to make a difference.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sima’s greatest joy lies in spending time with her family – her husband Nilesh, daughters Selina and Sarisha, and son Nayaan. Her ability to balance her successful career with her devotion to her loved ones is a testament to her strength of character and resilience.
In a world where barriers still exist for women in business, Sima Ganwani Ved stands as a shining example of what is possible with determination, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. As she continues to inspire others with her remarkable journey, Sima remains a true champion of empowerment and a beacon of hope for future generations.
