Sheikha
The Trailblazing Entrepreneur Implemen ng Her Vision in the Food and Beverage Industry
Sheikha Abdulla Alnuaimi Owner of Interna onal Brands in F&B Smallcakes A Cupcakery & Koub Cafe
,, ,,
The most significant barrier to female leadership is the actual lack of females in leadership. The best advice I can give to women is to go out and start something, ideally their own businesses. If you can’t see a path for leadership within your own company, go blaze a trail of your own.
- Safra Catz
Editor’s Note
You are never too small to make a difference.
—Greta Thunberg
ithincreasingrecognitionoftheunique Wperspectivesandapproacheswomenbringto thetable,womenleadersaretransforming businessesacrossindustries.However,apertinentquestion arises:Canleadershipbedefinedbygender,orisitamatter ofperspectiveandapproach?
Historically,leadershiphasbeenpredominantlyassociated withmasculinity.Theimageofastrong,assertiveleader hasoftenbeenportrayedasmale.However,thistraditional viewisgraduallybeingchallengedasmorewomenassume leadershiprolesanddemonstratetheircapabilitiesin drivingorganizationalsuccess.Onefundamentalaspectto consideristhatleadershipisnotinherentlytiedtogender Instead,itencompassesadiverserangeofqualities,skills, andbehaviorsthatarenotexclusivetoanyparticular gender.Effectiveleadershipisaboutvision,integrity, empathy,resilience,andtheabilitytoinspireandmotivate others—qualitiesthattranscendgenderboundaries.
Finally,leadershipisdefinedbythetraits,talents,and behaviorsdisplayedbyindividualsintheirleadership responsibilities,ratherthanbygender.Womenexecutives
provideadistinctperspectiveandapproachtoleadership, alteringthebusinessenvironmentandgeneratingpositive change.Organizationsthatencouragediversityand inclusionmaymaximizethepotentialoffemaleleaders, resultinginmoreequalandprosperousworkplaces.
Highlightingsuchinfluentialwomenleaders,TheCIO Worldbringsforthaneditiontitled "Middle East's Most Successful Women Leaders Transforming the Business."
Thiseditioncelebratestheachievementsandcontributions ofwomenleaderswhoarealteringthebusinesssector acrossindustriesintheMiddleEast,recognizingtheir uniqueperspectives,innovativeapproaches,and transformativeimpactonorganizations.Byshowcasing thesetrailblazingwomen,TheCIOWorldaimstoinspire othersandpromotegreatergenderdiversityandinclusionin leadershiproles.Throughtheirstoriesand accomplishments,thesewomenexemplifythenotionthat effectiveleadershiptranscendsgenderandisdefinedby qualitiessuchasvision,integrity,andempathy
Haveagreatreadahead!
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Middle the
Descrip on Featuring
Dr. Akshaya Pandian Consultant Orthodon st
Glorianne Montefrio Co-founder Najia Qazi Founder and CEO
Ocean Medical Centre www.oceanmedical care.com Company Name
Innoverse Global Media www.innoverse global.com
With a transforma ve impact on over a thousand pa ents and a thriving base of 1500+ orthodon c pa ents, Dr. A con nues to excel in the realm of cosme c den stry. She is the visionary founder of her proprietary clear aligner system, Dr A-Ligner CAT, revolu onizing the way smiles are cra ed.
With over 25 years of experience spanning various management roles in world-class organiza ons, Glorianne brings a wealth of exper se to her mission. Her journey has taken her through project management, strategic planning, financial market investments, sales, media, HR, and much more.
Samia Bouazza Group CEO and Managing Director
Sheikha Abdulla Alnuaimi Owner of Interna onal Brands in F&B
Sustainable Narra ve www.sustainable narra ve.net Mul ply Group www.mul ply.ae
Smallcakes a Cupcakery & Koub Café www.smallcakescup cakery.com
With a background in design, her journey into sustainability was fueled by a desire to harmonize People, Planet, and Profit. Najia's mission is to create las ng posi ve impacts through innova ve business prac ces.
Samia leads the strategic development of Mul ply Group, growing organically and inorganically a diversified por olio of businesses. She is commi ed to growth through tech infusion, efficiencies, synergy, acquisi ons, and driving sustainable growth within the group’s subsidiaries to ensure maximum shareholder returns.
With a fiery passion and an unbreakable will, she has established the first interna onal branch of Smallcakes, a renowned American cupcakery brand. Her convic on and unrelen ng dedica on have firmly secured her spot as a true industry leader, inspiring countless others to follow in her footsteps.
Shkha
Alnuaimi
The Trailblazing Entrepreneur Implementing Her Vision in the Food and Beverage Industry
Complete each other to compete! UAE is an international hub to welcome brands and Export brands.
Sheikha Abdulla Alnuaimi Owner of Interna onal Brands in F&B Smallcakes a Cupcakery & Koub Café
Inspiringchangeandtakingboldactionwithfortitudeis ataskthathaslongbeentakenupbythosewhorefuse tobeheldbackbythestatusquo.Fromgrassroots activiststocourageousentrepreneurs,thosewhohave pushedtheboundariesofwhatisconsideredpossiblehave creatednewpathsforotherstofollow
MeettheunstoppableSheikhaAlnuaimi,Ownerof InternationalbrandsinF&BatSmallcakesaCupcakery& KoubCaféandatruetrailblazerintheworldofbusiness. Fueledbyafierypassionandanunbreakablewill,shehas establishedthefirstinternationalbranchofSmallcakes.Her convictionandunwaveringdedicationhavefirmlysecured herspotasatrueindustryleader,inspiringcountlessothers tofollowinherfootsteps.
Today,Sheikha,aversatileentrepreneurwithremarkable expertiseinFoodandBeverages,haspartneredwithJeff Martin,theowneroftherenownedAmericancupcakery brandSmallcakes,tobringArabianhospitalityand exceptionaltastestoherhomecountry Thispartnershiphas resultedinthefirstinternationalbranchofSmallcakesafter over90branchesintheUSA.
Consequently,sheisaproponentofhumancontact, particularlyforfunctionsthathumaninteractiontakestothe nextlevel,suchascake-makingorhelpingcustomersto chooseproductsandattendingtopatronsatdiningand events.Thiscommunicationhelpsthemsustaintheir customersandbuildloyaltyandrelationships.
So go ahead, take a bite of success, and join the sweet revolution brought to you by her!
ClimbingtheCorporateLadder
Sheikhahasbeenapartofthecorporateworldforover15 years,steadilyworkingherwayupthecareerladder.In 2014,shedecidedtotaketheleapandbecomean entrepreneurwhilemaintainingherfull-timejob.Soon after,sheattendedanexhibitionhostedbytheAjman ChamberofCommercefocusingonfranchising,which furthersolidifiedherdecisiontopursueherownbusiness.
Shewasinspiredbytheconceptofpushingboundariesand takingactionwhereothersstopped,especiallyinafieldthat wasoutsideherbackgroundinF&B.Withthe encouragementofherfather,sheandherbrotherdecidedto taketheplungeandbegintheirbusinessventure.Withtheir passionanddedicationtothecause,theyaresureto succeed.
Shewithherbrother,andMr.JeffMartin,thefounderof “Smallcakes A Cupcakery” intheUSA,havemetand initiatedanagreementtoestablishthefirstinternational branchoftheirbusinessafterhavingover90branchesin theUSA.
ASweetMissiontoBrightenYourDay
SheikharedefinedSmallcakesCupcakerywiththeintention ofprovidingadeliciousassortmentoffreshlybaked cupcakesin14distinctflavorsthatareoffereddaily With Martin’sinnovativeandenthusiasticapproachtobaking, Smallcakeshasbecomeapopularspotforcupcake enthusiastsworldwide.
SmallcakesCupcakeryandCreameryarerenownedforits gourmetfreshlybakedcupcakesandsignaturemilkshake.It hasbeenfeaturedontheFoodNetwork’s“CupcakeWars” seasonsone,two,andseven,aswellasthehitdaytimetalk show“TheView.”Ithasbecomeasought-aftertreat,with celebritiesincludingitintheireventsandweddings.USA TODAYlisteditasoneoftheTopTenCupcakePlacesto tryinthecountry,andSLURRPYhasrecommendeditfor threeyearsintheUAE.
Smallcakesisallabouttheideathat“MaybeaCupcake WillHelp!”andithasseenitsneighborhoodcupcakery expandworldwide.Theirmissionstatementisto “Deliver the best cupcake experience through creative flavors, premium ingredients, and warm service that make customers come back and recommend us.”
ExperiencetheTransformativePowerofDeliciously CraftedDesserts
UnderSheikha’sleadership,Smallcakesisdevotedtothe artofbaking,believinginthetransformativepowerthat greattastescanbringtolife.Theyarepassionateabout craftingunique,deliciousflavorsanddesignstomakeevery occasionspecial.Witheachproductandservice,customers canexperiencethesuperiorqualitythatSmallcakes provides.Itisthiscommitmenttocreatingthebestdesserts thatmakethemstandout.
Renownedforitsinnovativeanddelectablemilkshakes,this establishmentblendsthemostpopularcupcakeflavors directlyfromitsfreshlystockeddisplaycaseintoa refreshingandairyshakethatpatronscan’tgetenoughof.
Smallcakes has a strategic plan to focus on its partnerships with cafes, as well as offering a destination to enjoy free time with Art workshops for a variety of ages and interests.
Deliver the best cupcake experience through creative flavors, premium ingredients, and warm service that make customers come back and recommend us.
DelightYourTasteBudswiththeLatestCraze
Settingtrendsandstayingaheadofthecompetition,her newestcreations–CakeinaCupandMilkshakeCupcakes –areperfectfortoday’sbusylifestyles.Withtheircreative touches,thesesnacksandtreatsaresuretodelight.Enjoy themasasnackorasweettreat!
IndulgeinDeliciousTreatsandCelebrateSpecial Occasions
AdesserthavenlocatedintheheartofAjman.Itsprime locationofferseasyaccessviathehighwayfordelivery servicestoallemirates,makingitago-tospotforthose withasweettooth.Butthat’snotall.Smallcakesalsoboasts acozydine-inarea,perfectforcelebratingspecial occasionslikebirthdays.Whetheryou’relookingfora quicksugarfixoraplacetoindulgeinsomesweettreats withyourlovedones,Smallcakeshasgotyoucovered.
UniqueandDeliciousFlavors
AccordingtoSheikha,Smallcakesisaninternationalbrand thatoperatesinboththeUSandtheUnitedArabEmirates. TocatertothepreferencesofUAEcustomers,theyhave tailoredtheirproducts,packaging,andflavors.Theyoffer signaturecupcakesinvarioussizes,featuringintriguing flavorssuchasredvelvet,saffron,dates,andchocolate, amongothers.
Sheikha
HighlightsEqualityandDiversityinUAE
BusinessSector
Whileconversingaboutwomeninthebusinessfield, Sheikhastressedthesignificanceoffemalerepresentation inthissector.Shehighlightedthatwiththestrongsupport oftheUAEgovernment,theratioofwomeninbusinessis almostequaltothatofmen.Thereisalsoadiverserangeof businessesrepresentedbywomen.TheUAEgovernmentis determinedtopromotetheglobalmediapresenceofUAE businesses.Toaccomplishthisgoal,Sheikhaemphasized theimportanceofentrepreneursjoininghandsand supportingeachothertoachieveindividualandcollective businessandnationalobjectives.
PowerofTechnologyandHumanInteraction
Comingfromatechbackground,asacomputerscience bachelorgraduateandhavingworkedintransformation fieldstodevelopservices,Sheikhabelievesinthepositive
impacttechnologycanhaveoninternalsystemsand servicesforcustomers.
Atthesametime,sheisanadvocateforhumaninteraction, especiallywhenitcomestofunctionssuchascreatingcake ideasorhelpingcustomerstoselectacustomizeddesign andservingclientsindine-inandoccasions.This interactionhelpsthemmaintaintheircustomersand increaseloyaltyandrelationships.
AdviceforStartups
Accordingtoher,startupsoughttocultivateacultureof cooperationandcollaborationinordertofostermutual growth.Apartfromsharingtipsandguidance,theyshould alsocollaboratewhenfacinghighdemand,supplementing
eachotherratherthancompetingandexpressingtheir individualitythroughinnovation.Toachievesuccess, entrepreneursshouldfocusonbuildingstrongrelationships withpartners,customers,andteammembers.
Bycultivatingcooperationandcollaboration,startupscan capitalizeoneachother’sstrengths.Thiscancreateawinwinsituationwhereallpartiesbenefitfromeachother’s knowledge,expertiseandresources,whichcanresultin improvedefficiencyandcostsavings.
Strongrelationshipswithpartners,customers,andteam membersareessentialforlong-termsuccess.Partnerships withotherstartupscanhelpcreateeconomiesofscale, whilecustomerrelationshipscanprovidevaluablefeedback andinsights.Meanwhile,teamsmustworktogetherto developinnovativesolutions,identifyopportunities,and createvalue.
Ultimately,cooperationandcollaborationarekeyfor startupstorealizetheirpotential.Byworkingtogetherand leveragingthestrengthsofeachother,startupscancreatean environmentofgrowthandsuccess.Throughstrong partnershipsandcustomerrelationships,startupscancreate anenvironmentoftrustandmutualbenefit.Withcreative solutionsandinnovativeapproaches,startupscancreatea competitiveadvantageandachievetheirgoals.
UnveilingStrategicPlantoCreateUniqueExperiences
Sheikha’svisionforSmallcakesiscenteredonestablishing ahubwherethecommunitycanunwindandengageinart workshopstailoredtodiverseagegroupsandinterests. Smallcakesinitiateditsventurebyprovidingchildrenwith anentertainingactivityofdecoratingcupcakes,whichhas gainedpopularityforoccasionssuchasbirthdays,schools, andcorporateevents.Byadoptingthisstrategy,Smallcakes canofferadistinctiveandpleasurableencounterforits clients.Thisideologyisrootedinthenotionthatbeing adaptabletomeetthecustomers’demandsisparamount.
SheikhamakessureSmallcakesadherestoastrategicplan thatemphasizestheimportanceofcollaborationamong businessestoanticipateandaddressfutureneeds.This involvestakingaproactiveapproachthroughthe diversificationofservicesandproducts,suchassupplying cafestoreducetheiroperatingcosts.Asatestamenttothis philosophy,SmallcakesparticipatedinEXPO2020asa cafesupplier,offeringuniquetreatsthatshowcaseEmirati flavors.Presently,Smallcakescaterstocafesthroughoutthe UnitedArabEmirates.
TastetheDifference
Sheikhaemphasizestheimportanceofcustomerfeedback asthedrivingforcebehindtheirsuccess.Theyproactively requestfeedbackfromcustomersaftereveryorderand servicetoensurethattheirproductsandservicesmaintain thehighestlevelofquality.Sheikhaandherteamare passionateaboutthetasteoftheircakes,notonlytheir design,andtheyuseonlythefinestqualityfondanttogive theircakesadelightfultextureandflavorthatissureto pleasetheircustomers.Itistheirmeticulousattentionto detailthatsetstheircustomcakesapartandmakesthem trulyexceptional.
Smallcakeshasbeenactivelyparticipatinginanumberof exhibitionsandCorporateSocialResponsibility(CSR) initiativesandhasbeenrecognizedandrewardedfordoing sobyvariousorganizations.Foranimpressivethreeyears inarow,Smallcakeshasbeenawardedthecovetedtitleof RecommendedCakeShoponSLUURPY–anendorsement thatspeakstothequalityofthecakesandthecommitment toexcellencethatSmallcakesembodies.
It is important for entrepreneurs to join hands and support each other to achieve individual and collective business and national objectives.
A Close Look at Her and Personal Professional Achievements
I have been awarded by different government and private corporates in my journey; lately, I was awarded:
“In honor and recognition of valuable contribution- Sheikha AlNuaimi was awarded as “The Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2022” at “Global Women Entrepreneurship Conference and Awards 2022 - Dubai” hosted by Berkeleyme & MS (Voice of Global Women), on 26th of March 2022.”
This award represents the hard work and dedication that Sheikha Abdulla Alnuaimi places in each and every step to reach success and excellence. We are proud to have her as one of our Legacy Awardees 2020 for her passion and drive that she places in her work.
I love to contribute to society by volunteering socially and professionally; on a professional level, I’m an assessor of number of business and service excellence awards which enable me to share experience and impact business development, I do public speaking to share knowledge and I have been a board of directors for 3 years at PMI UAE.
Smallcakes has won 3 middles at Salon du Chocolate 2023 in different competitions. The bronze medal for the best chocolate center piece and the best cheese cake, and the golden medal for the best 3D design cake.
The Amazing Strength of Wom Entrepreneurs
Womenwhostartbusinesseshaveaspecialpowerthat helpsthemsucceed.It'snotjustaboutmaking money;it'saboutchangingtheworldinapositive way Thispowercomesfromtheircaringnature,smartinstincts, andstrongdetermination.
Let's take a closer look at how women entrepreneurs use these qualities to make a big difference.
CaringaboutOthers:
Womenwhorunbusinessescaredeeplyaboutpeopleand communities.Theydon'tjustwanttomakeprofits;theywantto solveproblemsandmakelifebetterforothers.Forexample, theymightstartcompaniesthathelptheenvironmentorsupport fairtreatmentforworkers.Thesebusinessesshowthatsuccess isn'tjustaboutmoney;it'saboutmakingapositiveimpacton theworld.
UsingSmartIdeas:
Womenentrepreneursarereallygoodatcomingupwithsmart ideas.Theycansensewhatpeopleneedandfindcreativeways tomeetthoseneeds.Theydon'talwaysrelyonnumbersand data;instead,theytrusttheirgutfeelings.Thishelpsthemadapt tochallengesandthinkoutsidethebox.Bylisteningtotheir instincts,theycreateproductsandservicesthatpeopleloveand connectwith.
NeverGivingUp:
Startingabusinessishard,especiallyforwomenwhoface extraobstacles.Butwomenentrepreneursaretoughand nevergiveup.Theykeepgoing,evenwhenthingsget tough,turningproblemsintoopportunities.Their determinationinspiresothersandhelpsbreakdownbarriers forwomeninbusiness.Bystickingtogetherandsupporting eachother,womenentrepreneursshowthatanythingis possible.
HowWeCanHelp:
Wecanalldoourparttosupportwomenentrepreneurs. Governmentscanmakelawsthattreatwomenandmen equallyinbusiness.Companiesandinvestorscangive womenafairchanceandinvestintheirideas.As consumers,wecanchoosetobuyfromwomen-owned businessesandspreadthewordabouttheirwork.Together, wecancreateaworldwhereeveryonehasachanceto succeed.
Collectively,womenentrepreneurshaveaspecialpower thatcomesfromtheircaringnature,smartideas,and determination.Theyusethesequalitiestomaketheworlda betterplaceandinspireotherstodothesame.By supportingwomeninbusiness,wecancreateamore inclusiveandequalfutureforeveryone.
DeterminationintheFaceofAdversity
Thejourneyofentrepreneurshipisfraughtwithchallenges, fromfundingconstraintsandmarketvolatilitytogender biasandsystemicbarriers.Yet,itispreciselyinthefaceof adversitythatthetrueresilienceoffemaleentrepreneurs shinesthrough.Drivenbyunwaveringdeterminationand resolve,womenentrepreneursdefytheodds,turning obstaclesintoopportunitiesandsetbacksintostepping stonestowardssuccess.
Historicallymarginalizedandunderestimated,female entrepreneurshavehadtoforgetheirpathsamidsta landscaperifewithskepticismandbiases.Yet,ratherthan succumbtolimitations,theyharnesstheirdeterminationto challengestereotypes,dismantlebarriers,andcarveout spaceswheretheirvoicesarenotjustheardbutcelebrated. Indoingso,theypavethewayforfuturegenerationsof women,inspiringthemtodreamboldlyandpursuetheir aspirationswithouthesitationorcompromise.
Moreover,theresilienceoffemaleentrepreneursreverberates acrossentireecosystems,fosteringculturesofresilienceand collaboration.Womenentrepreneursoftenserveasmentors, allies,andadvocates,offeringsupportnetworksand resourcestoempowerfellowentrepreneurs,especiallythose fromunderrepresentedbackgrounds.
Throughcollectiveactionandsolidarity,theycatalyze movementsthatamplifydiversevoices,fosterinclusivity, anddrivesystemicchangewithintheentrepreneurial landscape.
HarnessingthePowerofFemaleEntrepreneurship
Aswereflectonthesecretpoweroffemaleentrepreneurs,it becomesevidentthattheircontributionsextendfarbeyond therealmsofbusinessandcommerce.Theyarearchitectsof change,catalystsforprogress,andchampionsofamore inclusiveandequitablefuture.Yet,unlockingthefull potentialoffemaleentrepreneurshiprequirescollectiveeffort andsustainedcommitmentfromallstakeholders.
Policymakersmustenactlegislationandimplementpolicies thatdismantlesystemicbarriersandpromotegenderequality inentrepreneurship,ensuringequalaccesstoresources, opportunities,andsupportnetworks.Corporationsand investorsmustprioritizediversityandinclusion,recognizing theimmensevaluethatwomenentrepreneursbringtothe tableandactivelyinvestingintheirventures.
Moreover,asconsumersandcommunitymembers,wehave thepowertosupportandupliftfemaleentrepreneursby choosingtopatronizetheirbusinesses,amplifyingtheir voices,andadvocatingforgender-inclusivepracticesinthe marketplace.Byharnessingthecollectivepowerofour voicesandactions,wecancreateamoreequitableand inclusiveentrepreneurialecosystemwhereallindividuals, regardlessofgender,havetheopportunitytothriveand succeed.
Inconclusion,thesecretpoweroffemaleentrepreneurslies notinasingularattributeortraitbutintheconvergenceof empathy,intuition,anddeterminationthatfuelstheir venturesanddrivestransformativechange.Aswecelebrate theirachievementsandcontributions,letuscontinueto championtheircause,amplifytheirvoices,andpavetheway forafuturewheretheentrepreneuriallandscapeistruly reflectiveofthediversity,resilience,andpotentialofall individuals.
- Alaya Brown
Middle East's Most Successful Women Leaders Transforming the Business
Dr. P
A N D I A N
Cra ing Smiles, Transforming Lives
The Orthodontic Virtuoso Redefining Dentofacial Excellence!
Asmile is the best makeup that can change your looks and your heart.” –Asimpleyetprofound statement.We'veallexperiencedthemagneticpull ofawarm,genuinesmile.Ithasthepowertolightupa room,makeastranger'sday,andeventransformhowwe feelaboutourselves.Theactofsmilingisaninnate, universallanguagethattranscendsculturesandborders, connectingusonafundamentalhumanlevel.Butwhat happenswhenyou'rereluctanttoshareyoursmilewiththe world?Perhapsit'sbecauseofcrookedteeth,misaligned bites,orotherdentalimperfections.Whenourdental aestheticsholdusback,it'seasytomissoutonthemagic thatsmilescreate.Thisiswhereorthodonticscomesinto play,offeringarangeofsolutionstocorrectmisaligned teeth,irregularbites,andjawissues.Thesetreatmentsaren't justaboutaesthetics;they'reaboutenhancingyourselfesteemandoverallwell-being.
Inthisworldoforthodontics,thereisanamethatechoes excellenceandacommitmenttotransforminglives,one smileatatime.MeetDr.AkshayaPandian,aConsultant Orthodontistwithoveradecadeofexperienceinthefield ofDentofacialOrthopedics.
Hernameissynonymouswithexcellenceintheworldof orthodontics.Herimpressivequalifications,includingBDS, MDSOrthodontics,MFDSRCPSG,PGCOI,M.Ortho RCPSG,andM.OrthoRCSEd,paintapictureofa professionaldedicatedtomasteringhercraft.Withover15 yearsofexperience,shehastouchedthelivesofcountless patients,leavingalastingimpactwithherexpertise.
I believe women have a diverse perspective with a broader range of ideas and solutions. They utilize different life experiences, backgrounds, and viewpoints through which decisions can be more inclusive, innovative, and effective.
,, ,,
Dr A'sjourneyindentistrybeganwhensheobtainedher Bachelor'sdegreefromtheprestigiousTamilnaduDr. M.G.R.MedicalUniversity,Chennai,India.Herrelentless pursuitofknowledgeledhertotherenownedSri RamachandraUniversity,Chennai,whereshepursuedher postgraduateeducationinOrthodonticsandDentofacial Orthopedics.Here,herjourneytowardsbecomingan orthodonticvirtuosotookflight.Dr A'sexpertiseand knowledgehaveearnedrecognitionfromworld-class institutions,includingtheRoyalCollegeofPhysiciansand SurgeonsofEdinburghandGlasgow.Herunquenchable thirstforknowledgepromptedhertoobtainadditional certificationsinAdvancedOralImplantology,expanding herskillsetandreinforcinghercommitmenttothefield.
Withatransformativeimpactonoverathousandpatients andathrivingbaseof1500+orthodonticpatients,Dr A continuestoexcelintherealmofcosmeticdentistry.Sheis thevisionaryfounderofherproprietaryclearaligner system,
Dr.A-LignerCAT,revolutionizingthewaysmilesare crafted.Herentrepreneurialspirittrulyshinesasshe embarksonaninnovativepartnershipwithinathriving medicalcenter.Herdedicationandpioneering contributionshavenotgoneunnoticed.Shewas awardedtheprestigious"YOUNGORTHODONTIST OFTHEYEAR"bytheWorldDentalAssociationata recentconferenceheldinBangkok,Thailand.This esteemedrecognitionservesasatestamenttoher unwaveringpursuitofexceptionalpatientcareand groundbreakingadvancementsinorthodontics.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Couldyoupleasetellaboutyourselfandwhat motivatedyoutoembarkonthissector?
Well,Iwoulddescribemyselfasafriendly,funlovingpersonandapassionateorthodontistby profession.Duringmyearlyyears,Iwasalways interestedinacareerthatwouldhaveapositive impactonanindividual'slife.AsIgrewup,I understoodthatdentistry,specifically orthodontics,enhancedaperson'ssmile,instilling positivityandconfidence.Irealizedthe transformativepoweroforthodontictreatment,not justintermsofaestheticsbutalsoinimproving dentalfunctionandpreventingoralhealthissues.
Thisledmetopursueextensivetrainingand educationinthisfieldwhileconstantlystaying updatedwithrecentadvancements.Today,Iam privilegedtoleadateamofdedicated professionalswhostrivetodeliverexceptional dentalcareandcreatelastingsmiles.Ialso feelveryfortunatetopracticeinQatar, whereIcanhelppeoplefromdifferent continents.
Couldyoupleasebriefaboutyour companyanditsinceptionstory?
Dr.A-LignerCAT(ClearAligner Therapy)wasbornoutofapassionfor transformingsmilesandimprovingthe livesofpatients.Withadeep understandingoftheimpactthata confidentsmilecanhaveonan individual'sself-esteem,overall well-being,andinaccessibility duetofinancialrestrictions,Iset
February, 2024
Dr. Akshaya Pandian Consultant Orthodon st Ocean Medical Center, Doha
outtocreateasolutionthatwould revolutionizethefieldoforthodontics. Myjourneybeganwithavision:to developaclearalignersystemthat wouldcombinecutting-edge technologywithexceptionalpatient careandaffordabilitywithout compromisingontheeffectivenessof thetreatment.Drawinguponmy collectiveexpertiseandyearsof experienceinorthodontics,I meticulouslyresearchedanddeveloped myproprietaryclearalignersystem. Myteamworkedtirelesslytodesigna productthatwouldprovideprecise toothmovementwhileensuring optimalcomfortandconveniencefor ourpatients.
Myentrepreneurialjourneybegan whenIdecidedtoinvestinamedical centerthathasarichhistoryanda commitmenttoexcellence. Recognizingtheimmensepotentialfor transforminghealthcareservices,I seizedtheopportunitytomakea meaningfulimpact.Fromthevery beginning,Iunderstoodthatmyroleas anentrepreneurwasnotjustabout financialinvestmentsandbeinga partner,butaboutenvisioningabetter futureforourpatientsandthe communityweserve.
Whatchallengeshaveyoupersonally facedasawomanleaderinthe businessworld,andhowdidyou overcomethem?
Ihavealwayscherishedbeinga woman,andofcourse,whenitcomes tothebusinessworld,likeanywoman leader,Itoooftenfacestereotypesand biasesthatcanundermineone's abilities.Toovercomethischallenge,I hadtoprovemycapabilitiesthrough consistentperformance,showcasing myexpertise,andchallenginggender biasesthrougheducationand awareness.Itwasalsohardtofinda mentorwhocouldguidemethrough
mycareer.Ihadtofindmywayoutandswimagainstthe tide,buttheconstantmoralsupportfrommyhusband, Dr.Paul,whoisanEmergencyPhysician,keptmegoing. Hisdemandingspecialtyencouragedmenottolookatthe clock.
Mymother-in-law,Dr.CynthiaPandian,hasbeenandwill alwaysbemyrolemodel.ByobservingherasaViceChancellorofareputeduniversity,Iwasabletodevelop leadershipqualities.
Achievingwork-lifebalancewasanotherchallenge,butby settingclearboundaries,delegatingtasks,andprioritizing self-care,Icouldhandleit.Additionally,Iestablisheda supportsystematworkandhometocreateabalancethat allowedmetoexcelinbothareas.WhenIbeganmy journey,Ialwayshadself-doubtandimpostersyndrome.I wasfortunatetohaveafamilythatcelebratedmysuccesses andwassurroundedbyasupportivenetworkthatbelieved inmyabilities.Ihadtopracticeself-compassionand remindmyselfofmyworthandcapabilities.
Howdoyouseewomencontributingtothe transformationofbusinesses?Canyouprovideany specificexamplesorcasestudies?
Womenhaveuniqueperspectivesandexperiences,which canleadtomoreinnovativeandcreativesolutions.Women leadersoftenexcelatcreatinginclusiveandcollaborative workenvironments.Womeninleadershiprolesserveas rolemodelsandmentorsforaspiringprofessionals.Many femaleleadersarepassionateaboutsocialissuesand corporatesocialresponsibility.Thisfocusonsocialimpact notonlybenefitscommunitiesbutalsoenhancesthe reputationandbrandimageofbusinesses.
IwouldliketomentionMs.MaryBarra,whobecamethe CEOofGeneralMotorsin2014,makingherthefirst womantoleadamajorglobalautomaker.Underher leadership,GeneralMotorshasundergoneamajor transformation,focusingonelectricandautonomous vehiclesandinvestinginnewtechnologies.
Whatadvicewouldyougivetoaspiringwomenleaders whoarelookingtomakeapositiveimpactanddrive transformationintheirrespectiveindustries?
Mymotheralwaystellsme,"BeHumbleandBelievein Yourself!"
Myadvicetoaspiringwomenwouldbe,"Embraceyour
strengths,acknowledgeyourworth,andcultivateapositive mindset"thatempowersyoutotakeonchallengesand overcomeobstacles.Alwaysseekgrowthopportunities. Thismayinvolvetakingonchallengingprojects,seeking outmentorsorcoaches,attendingindustryconferencesor workshops,orpursuingrelevanteducationalorprofessional developmentprograms.
Remembertobuildanetwork.Cultivateastrong professionalnetworkbothwithinandoutsideofyour industry.Seekoutmentorsandrolemodelswhocan provideguidance,support,andinspiration.Beacontinuous learnerandadvocateforyourself.Don'tshyawayfrom promotingyourachievementsandshowcasingyourskills. Developyourbrandandensurethatothersareawareof yourcapabilitiesandpotential.
Finally,themostimportantoneistoberesilient.Leadership journeysoftencomewithchallengesandsetbacks.Develop resilienceandlearntobouncebackfromfailuresor disappointments.Usesetbacksasopportunitiesforlearning andgrowth,anddon'tletthemdeteryoufromyourgoals. Staytruetoyourvalues,leadwithintegrity,andembrace youruniquestrengthsandperspectivesasafemaleleader.
Lookingahead,whatdoyouenvisionforthefutureof womenleadersindrivingbusinesstransformation,and whatstepsdoyoubelieveneedtobetakentofurther empowerandsupportthem?
Thefutureofwomenindrivingbusinesstransformation lookspromising.Aswecontinuetoprogresstowards genderequalityandrecognizethevaluethatdiverse leadershipbringstoorganizations,moreopportunitiesare openingupforwomentotakeonleadershiprolesanddrive change.Hereareafewstepsthatcanfurtherempowerand supportwomenleadersinthispursuit:
• FosterInclusiveWorkEnvironments
• ProvideMentorshipandSponsorshipPrograms
• FocusonSkillsDevelopment
• PromoteVisibilityandRecognition
• SupportNetworkingOpportunities
• EncourageDiversityinBoardrooms
• AdvocateforEqualPayandOpportunities
Byimplementingthesestepsandcontinuingtobreakdown barriers,wecancreateafuturewherewomenleadersplaya pivotalroleindrivingbusinesstransformationandfostering inclusiveandsuccessfulorganizations.
Glorianne Montefrio Co-founder
Innoverse Global Media
Middle East's Most Successful Women Leaders
Montefrio Glorianne
Bridging
People, Ideas, and Prot through Sustainability and Innovation
A Visionary Strategist and Sustainability Leader Pioneering Change through Cross-Functional Collaboration!
Lifeisajourneyfilledwithendlessopportunitiesfor
growthandself-discovery,andalongthispath,a persistentquestionarises:Whatisourpurpose?For many,theanswerliesinthepursuitofinnovation—driving meaningfulchangethroughfearlessdedicationandstrategic thinking.Inaworldthatoftenmovestoofast,where conceptslikethesedominateconversations,thereare individualswhostandoutaspioneers,truegame-changers.
GlorianneMontefrio,theCo-founderofInnoverse GlobalMedia,isundoubtedlyoneoftheseremarkable individuals.
Glorianneisavisionaryonamission.Hergoal?Tocreatea worldwheresustainabilityisnotjustaconceptbutawayof life.She'snotjustastrategist;she'saninnovatorwho thrivesinthediverse,multiculturalworldofcrossfunctionalteams.Hermessageisclear:makingthe impossiblepossiblethroughinnovationisthepathtoa betterfuture.
Withover25yearsofexperiencespanningvarious managementrolesinworld-classorganizations,Glorianne bringsawealthofexpertisetohermission.Herjourneyhas takenherthroughprojectmanagement,strategicplanning, financialmarketinvestments,sales,media,HR,andmuch more.Thisdiversebackgroundhasprovidedherwitha uniqueperspectiveonhowsustainabilitycanbeintegrated intoeveryfacetofourlives.
Glorianne'sworkethicandphilosophyarerootedina profoundbeliefinthepowerofpeopleandtheirpotentialto
Women leaders are quick learners with strong empathy towards diverse viewpoints, needs, and concerns of their colleagues, customers, and stakeholders that tend to be more risk-averse.
createpositivechange.Sheisadynamicleader,aproblem solver,andarisk-taker.Herhighemotionalintelligence allowshertoconnectwithpeopleandcreatetransformative experiences.
ButGlorianneisnotjustadreamer;she'sadoer.Her reputationforimplementingpoliciesandproceduresthat boostcorporateprofitabilityspeaksvolumesabouther commitmenttoturninghervisionintoreality.She's passionateandethicalandpossessesa"can-do"attitude that'sinfectious.
Herdedicationtosustainabilityisnotjusttalk;it'saction. She'stakentheSDGS17pledgeselectedbyICANandis activelyinvolvedinyouthempowermentinitiativeslike GitexYouthXandMarineSustainabilityHackathons.Her workwithInnoverseGlobalMediaandArivoissettingnew standardsinsustainabilityanddiversity.
Glorianneisnotjustaname;she'saforceforgood.Her journeyisaninspirationforanyonelookingtomakea
differenceintheworld.Withher,theimpossiblebecomes possible,andtheworldbecomesabetterplace.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Couldyoupleasetellmeaboutyourselfandwhat motivatedyoutoembarkonthissector?
MynameisGlorianneMontefrio.IamthePresidentand Co-founderofInnoverseGlobalMedia(IGM).Asa believerinIkigaileadership,mypurposeinlifehasbeento innovatefearlessly,demandingdedicationandstrategic thinkinginordertosucceedinadoptingmeaningfulchange.
Couldyoupleasebriefaboutyourcompanyandits inceptionstory?
Ihavebeenmanagingteamsandprojectsforthepast20 years,butmyinnovativeideaswerehardtorealizeuntilI metPaulLee,ourCEOandfounder Together,wecreated IGM3monthsagoasthefirst-of-its-kindmetaland transparentglassOLEDtouchscreenTV,designedtobring familiesaroundtheTVtoexperiencetheMetaverse together.TheworldstillassociatestheMetaversewith VirtualReality(VR)headsetsandmobilephones,butthe Metaverseisallaboutcommunityandsharedengagement. VRandmobiledevicesaredrivinguserstowards
isolationismandindividualexperiences.Whenwasthelast timeyouwantedtowearsomeoneelse'ssweatyheadsetor crowdaroundamobilephoneforprolongedperiodsof time?
Lastmonth,welaunchedournewproductattheGlobal EducationalSuppliesandSolutions(GESSDubai) ConferenceattheWorldTradeCenter,togetherwithour manufacturer,ShenzenOKViewTechnologyCo.,Limited. Itwasanamazingchancetoconnectwitheducators, suppliers,andbusinessesonhowourinnovationwouldbe abletohelpwiththeirSustainabilitygoalsthroughourown SDGs(4,9,10,12,17).Comecheckusourat innoverseglobal.com.
Whatchallengeshaveyoupersonallyfacedasawoman leaderinthebusinessworld,andhowdidyouovercome them?
Myjourneywasadifficultone.Ioftensoughtsupportand mentorshipfrommaleleadersbutfoundthatwomenin leadershiprolesweresucceedingingainingavoiceinthe areasofsustainabilityandeducation.Innovationand technology,however,werestillprimarilymale-dominated sectors.Drawingonthemotivationsandinspirationsofmy femalementors,IdecidedtopartnerwithourCEO,awellrespectedinnovatorwhobelievedinfemalediversityin technology Together,we'reovercomingthestereotypethat awomanco-founderofatechnologyinnovationcompanyis notfit.
Howdoyouseewomencontributingtothe transformationofbusinesses?Canyouprovideany specificexamplesorcasestudies?
Iseewomengrowinginleadershiprolesthatwilltransform businessesallovertheworld.Ourabilitytoinspireand manifestideasintorealityhasalwaysbeenourstrongsuit. Howmanyworldleaderswouldn'tpointtotheirspouses, sisters,ormothersastheirdrivinginspiration?
InSeptember,Ibroughttogether20womenin SustainabilityLeadershiprolesattheFirstAll-Women LeadersRoundtableSessiononSustainability-Pioneering thePathtoNetZeroatCenturyFinancial.Throughoutmy careerIhavealwaysbeenconnectedwithwomenin Sustainabilityroles,asImyselfamdeeplymotivatedby Sustainability
Lastmonth,weparticipatedinanInnovationHackathon whereIservedastheonlywomanmentortoover50young innovators.Itwasinspiringtoseesomanyyoungwomen takingupthemantleoftechnologicalinnovation.I encouragedthemtopersevere,asIhaddone.AtGITEX thisyear,thesamegroupofstudentsshoweduptoseea panelofwomenleadersintheareasofaerospace,marine, aviation,andeducation.Ihaveseenthefirewithinthem growsincethehackathon,astheywereverypassionately engagedintheGITEXpanel.
Inyourexperience,whataresomeoftheunique perspectivesandstrengthsthatwomenbringtothe table,andhowdotheyimpactdecision-makingand problem-solving?
Womenleadersarequicklearnerswithstrongempathy towardsthediverseviewpoints,needs,andconcernsoftheir colleagues,customers,andstakeholders,whotendtobe morerisk-averse.Wearenaturallybigrisk-takersandlearn fromourexperiencestoensureeveryexperienceisa meaningfulonethatleadsustowardachievingourgoals. Coretoinnovationisauser-centereddesignapproach,and empathyhelpsusdivedeepintounderstandingpainpoints andcustomerneeds.
Howcanorganizationsfosteramoreinclusiveand supportiveenvironmentforwomentothriveandmake adifference?
SinceIGMwasfoundedbyawomanentrepreneur,wehave walkedthetalk,believingthatdiversebackgroundsfostera strongerenvironmentforwomentothrive.Thebestwayto makeadifferenceistobeauthentic,andwhiletherearea lotofdiversityinitiativesatsomecompanies,ourcompany isfoundedontheprinciplethatdiversityandinclusionare theonlywayforward.Oureducationplatformexistsin ordertobringdiversegroupstogetheranddrivemore communalengagementinclassroomsandbusinesses,as wellasinthehome.MobilephonesandVRheadsetsdrive ustoseparateourselvesasweexplorethemetaverse.Don't youthinkit'sironictowanttobealonewhilewantingto meetmorepeople?
Whatadvicewouldyougivetoaspiringwomenleaders whoarelookingtomakeapositiveimpactanddrive transformationintheirrespectiveindustries?
Don'tbeafraidtotakerisks.Findyourguidingstar,choose yourmentorswisely,andworkwithexpertswhovalueand
supportyourgoalstowardmakingameaningfulimpact. Ourfounder'soldcompany,Amazon,wasfoundedbyJeff Bezos,whofamouslysaid,"Becomfortablewithbeing misunderstood."In2006,whenhestartedAmazonWeb Services,Forbesmagazinepubliclylaughedathimandsaid heshouldsticktosellingbooks.Littledidtheyknowthat AWSwouldgoontoown40%ofthecloudmarketshare. Hisperseveranceagainstallthecriticsledtohissuccess.
SteveJobs,founderofApple,wasquestionedabouttaking auser-centeredapproachvs.aprofit-basedapproachwhen hestarted.Theirmottowas"ThinkDifferent."Thatvery approachledtohissuccess,whichexplainswhyApple customersarestilldelightedwiththeirproductstoday AtIGM,ourmottoisThinkBig,LearnBetter,andMakea Difference.Ichallengeeveryaspiringyoungwomanleader to"MakeaDifference."
Canyoudiscussanyspecificinitiativesorprojectsthat youhaveledorbeenapartof,whichhavehada significantimpactonthebusinessorindustry?
IbelievemycontributiontoIGMTVandtheMetaverse On-DemandApplication,whichfocusesontheeducationof sustainabilityandinnovationwithabuilt-inWeb3rewards program,willforeverchangethewaywelearnand experiencetheMetaverse.Whileothertechnologieslike VRandmobilearegoingtoofferindividualMetaverse experiences,theywon'tdeliverasharedexperience,which iswhatthefutureoftheMetaversewillbebytheendof thisdecade.Othersfocusonthegamingaspectsofitbut failtoseethemassmarketadoptionofspectatingand engagingasagroup.
Imagineaclassroomofstudentstakingturnsnavigatingthe classmascotavatarinavirtualworldwheretheycanlearn aboutsustainabilityinitiativesandwhatsustainabilityeven is.Thesearethestudentsthatwillsaveusinthefuturefrom ourownclimatecrisis.BoyanSlat,theCEOofanon-profit groupcalledOceanCleanup,wasjust16whenhestarted theorganizationthroughaschoolproject.Schoolprojects willtakeonthenextlevelwhenkidsareabletopresentin theMetaverseandgaininvestmentintereststomaketheir amazingideasareality
Whatroledoyoubelievementorshipandnetworking playinempoweringwomenleadersandfacilitatingtheir professionalgrowthanddevelopment?
Byservingasawomanintechnologyleadershipmentor,I havebeenabletoseeameaningfulstepinlocalyouth innovatorstakinganinterestinachievingtheirgoalsagainst thedifficultoddstheyface.TheyshowedupatGITEXto seeotherwomenleadersinspirethem.Ibelieveit'sessential foraspiringyoungwomenleaderstoseeexamplesof success.There'salotofdoubtthatstillexiststhatwecan makeittothetop,butwhentheyareabletoseethe successesofothers,Ibelievethatmakesameaningful difference.
Howdoyoubalancethedemandsofleadershipwith otheraspectsofyourlife,suchasfamilyandpersonal well-being?Whatstrategieshaveworkedforyouin maintainingthisbalance?
Ihavelearnedtodrawclearboundariesandamfirmenough toenforcetheminordertobalanceleadershipwithother aspectsofmylife.IlearnedthatIcannotandshouldnot takeoneverythingifitcanbedelegatedtothoseItrust.All toooften,womeninleadershipfeelliketheyhavetodo everything,whichmeanstakingworkhomeandlivingand breathingwork24/7.Iknowthatwewantto,inorderto overcompensate,appearassuperwoman,buttherealityis thatwe'remoreeffectiveifwedon'tburnourselvesout. Burnoutisseriousandcanreallysetusbackfromreaching ourgoals.It'sbettertokeepmovingatyourownpacethan todriveyourselfaccordingtosomeoneelse'sexpectations.
Lookingahead,whatdoyouenvisionforthefutureof womenleadersindrivingbusinesstransformation,and whatstepsdoyoubelieveneedtobetakentofurther empowerandsupportthem?
Ienvisionwomenperseveringasothershavebeforethem.I believethatfearisoneofthebiggestattributesholdingus back.Fearofrejection,fearoffailure,andfearofexisting leadershipchallengesButIbelievethebiggeststeptowards empoweringwomenanddrivingbusinesstransformationsis forustoputourselvesinrolesthatmakeadifference.We shouldpursuerolesasCEOs,founders,co-founders,CTOs, CFOs,andotherexecutiveleadershiproles,butmost importantly,nevergiveup.Manyofthegreatestleadersand inventorsofalltimehadmultiplefailures.It'stheir adversityandperseverancethatmadethemsucceed.
TheRiseof WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS in the U.S.
Womenentrepreneursareshapingthebusiness
landscapeintheUnitedStateslikenever before.Didyouknowthat,onaverage,849 newbusinessesarelaunchedbywomeneverysingle day?That'sastaggeringnumber,andit'sonlygrowing. Infact,4outofevery10businessesintheU.S.arenow ownedbywomen.Butwhatarethestoriesbehindthese remarkablewomenwhoaremakingwavesintheworld ofentrepreneurship?Everywomanentrepreneurhasher ownuniquejourney,filledwithchallenges,triumphs,and lessonslearnedalongtheway
However,despitethethrillofstartingtheirownbusiness, thereareimportanttacticsandmethodsthatwomenneed tobeawareofinordertosuccessfullynegotiatethis environment.
Here, we'll explore what not to do if you aspire to become a women entrepreneur:
• UnderestimatingYourPotential:Oneofthegravest mistakesawomanentrepreneurcanmakeis underestimatingherownpotential.It'svitalto believeinyourselfandyourcapabilities.Self-doubt canhinderprogressandlimityourwillingnessto takerisks.Embraceyourstrengthsandacknowledge yourachievements.Confidenceiskeyinthe entrepreneurialjourney
• NeglectingNetworkingOpportunities:Buildinga strongnetworkisfundamentalforanyentrepreneur, yetsomewomenoverlooktheimportanceof
networking.Networkingprovidesaccesstovaluable resources,mentorship,andpotentialpartnerships. Attendindustryevents,joinprofessionalassociations, andactivelyengagewithotherentrepreneurs.Your networkcanopendoorstoopportunitiesyoumaynot haveencounteredotherwise.
• AvoidingFinancialLiteracy:Understandingfinancesis paramountforthesuccessofanybusiness.However, somewomenentrepreneursshyawayfromdelvinginto financialmatters,relyingsolelyonotherstomanage theirfinances.Takethetimetolearnaboutbudgeting, cashflowmanagement,andfinancialforecasting. Familiarizeyourselfwithfinancialtermsandconcepts tomakeinformeddecisionsaboutyourbusiness's financialhealth.
• IgnoringMarketResearch:Launchingabusiness withoutconductingthoroughmarketresearchisakinto sailingblindfolded.Yet,manywomenentrepreneurs neglectthiscrucialstep.Marketresearchhelpsyou understandyourtargetaudience,identifycompetitors, andassessmarketdemandforyourproductsor services.Investtimeandresourcesinmarketresearch togaininsightsthatwillguideyourbusinessstrategy andpositioning.
• FearingFailure:Fearoffailurecanparalyzeaspiring entrepreneurs,preventingthemfrompursuingtheir entrepreneurialdreams.However,failureisan inevitablepartoftheentrepreneurialjourney.Insteadof fearingfailure,embraceitasalearningopportunity. Acceptthatsetbacksandchallengeswillarise,butthey serveassteppingstonestowardgrowthandinnovation. Cultivateresilienceandperseverancetoovercome obstaclesalongtheway
• LackingaClearVisionandStrategy:Withoutaclear visionandstrategy,navigatingthecomplexitiesof entrepreneurshipbecomesarduous.Somewomen entrepreneursdiveintobusinesswithoutasolidplanin place,leadingtodirectionlesseffortsandwasted resources.Takethetimetodefineyourbusiness objectives,identifyyourtargetmarket,andoutline actionablestepstoachieveyourgoals.Awell-defined strategyservesasaroadmapforguidingyour entrepreneurialendeavors.
• NeglectingSelf-care:Theentrepreneurialjourneycan bedemanding,oftenblurringthelinesbetweenwork andpersonallife.Neglectingself-careisacommon
pitfallamongwomenentrepreneurs.It'sessentialto prioritizeyourphysicalandmentalwell-beingamidst thedemandsofentrepreneurship.Allocatetimeforrest, relaxation,andactivitiesthatrejuvenateyourmindand body.Remember,maintainingahealthywork-life balanceisessentialforlong-termsuccessand fulfillment.
• OverlookingMentorshipOpportunities:Mentorship playsapivotalroleinthegrowthanddevelopmentof womenentrepreneurs.Yet,somewomenoverlookthe valueofmentorship,optingtonavigatethe entrepreneurialjourneyalone.Seekoutmentorswho canofferguidance,shareinsights,andprovidesupport alongtheway Amentor'sperspectivecanoffer invaluablewisdomandhelpnavigatechallengeswith clarityandconfidence.
• FailingtoAdapttoChange:Inthedynamiclandscape ofentrepreneurship,adaptabilityisaprizedtrait. However,somewomenentrepreneursresistchange, clingingtooutdatedstrategiesorresistinginnovation. Embracechangeasacatalystforgrowthandevolution. Stayabreastofindustrytrends,technological advancements,andshiftingconsumerpreferences. Adaptyourbusinessmodelandstrategiesaccordingly toremaincompetitiveandrelevantinthemarket.
• IsolatingYourself:Entrepreneurshipcanbeasolitary journey,butisolationcanimpedeyourgrowthand success.Somewomenentrepreneursisolatethemselves frompeers,colleagues,andsupportnetworks, believingtheymustnavigatethejourneyalone.Foster connectionswithfellowentrepreneurs,seek collaborationopportunities,andparticipatein communitiesthatshareyourpassionfor entrepreneurship.Surroundyourselfwithasupportive networkthatencouragesgrowth,collaboration,and sharedsuccess.
Inconclusion,whilethepathtobecomingasuccessful womanentrepreneurisfilledwithchallengesand uncertainties,avoidingthesecommonpitfallscanpavethe wayforsuccess.Bybelievinginyourself,embracing opportunitiesforgrowth,andcultivatingasupportive network,youcannavigatetheentrepreneurialjourneywith confidenceandresilience.Remember,eachchallengeisan opportunityforgrowth,andperseveranceiskeyto achievingyourentrepreneurialdreams.
- Alaya Brown
Subscription CIO
You create opportuni es by performing, not complaining.
– Muriel Siebert
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