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Sima Ganwani Ved’s story is one of inspiration and achievement. She hails from a family of business-minded individuals and grew up in Dubai. Her father, Mr. Lal Ganwani, is the owner of Lal’s Group, a well-known retail company. Sima’s journey is a testament to her determination and entrepreneurial spirit.
After graduating with a degree in Business Management from Kings College London, Sima decided to follow in her father’s footsteps and join the family business. She gained valuable experience by working at her father’s mall in the UAE. This experience gave her the confidence to start her own retail business with her husband, Nilesh Ved.
Together, Sima and Nilesh embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure, breaking stereotypes and defying expectations. Sima is now the Vice Chairperson of Apparel Group, a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate. This group proudly represents more than 75 international brands and operates over 1,750 stores in 14 countries.
Sima’s influence goes beyond the boardroom. She pursued a career in journalism, explored her love for acting with local theatre groups, and even hosted her own lifestyle TV chat show called “Hi Tea with Sima Ved.” In this show, she interviewed celebrities like His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Boman Irani, and Raahat Fateh Ali Khan, who shared their favourite recipes in her kitchen in front of an audience.
Sima is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She dedicated several years to voluntary work with the Children’s Hope Foundation (CHF) and various charity initiatives. Her efforts have focused on helping underprivileged children and advocating for women’s empowerment.
In 2016, Sima received The Global Gift Philanthropreneur Award from Eva Longoria. This award recognized her outstanding dedication to philanthropy and her significant contributions to changing lives on an international level. Sima’s partnership with the Al Jalila Foundation through the Apparel Group reflects her commitment to transforming lives through medical education and research.
Sima draws inspiration from influential figures like Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Malala Yousafzai. She aspires to be a relevant example of inspirational female power, embodying energy, passion, and persistence.
Family is at the heart of Sima’s life, and she cherishes every moment spent with her husband Nilesh and their children, Selina, Sarisha, and Nayaan. Her remarkable can-do attitude and her commitment to family and work are the cornerstones of her success.
Sima Ganwani Ved’s entrepreneurial journey has left an indelible mark on the retail industry. As the founder and Chairwoman of the Apparel Group, one of the largest retailers in the Middle East, she has shown that with determination and a visionary spirit, one can build a multibillion-dollar empire. Her commitment to female empowerment and philanthropy serves as an inspiration to all, making her a true visionary in the business world.
