Women Entrepreneur | Page 2

Born in the heart of Dubai in 1980, Kibsons has today grown into a market leader in the fresh fruits, vegetables and produce industry. But behind the success of its pioneering efforts in affordable pricing, sustainability and quality has been a very simple notion that CEO Halima Jumani has empowered the family business' core culture with: put people first.

"What sets our designs apart is a balance of restraint and richness: silhouettes that are powerful yet feminine, details that whisper luxury rather than shout it."

This year we put the spotlight on six women who reflect on those who stood beside them, walking hand in hand and supporting their path to success in both business and life.

"The journey isn't about knowing everything from the start, but about seeking, learning, and discovering the right answers along the way."

"Knowing that I have a foundation of love and trust allows me to move forward with strength and grace."

"Hand in Hand' to me means being present through every milestone to offer guidance, support, and the right tools to ensure someone's journey stays on track."

"This nation has been built by the strength of both Emirati women and men, together, we unite in precision, purpose, and excellence."

"As we mark a decade since the inception of Emirati Women's Day, I can't help but reflect on how far we, as women, have come and continue to grow —and I attribute so much of where we stand today to the vision of our leaders and the unwavering guidance of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation."

"From encouraging me to aim higher as a student, to offering emotional support as a wife and mother, and providing guidance and trust in my abilities as a banker — I'm truly grateful for the support that has shaped the person I am today."

'The Page Doctor' was built by Amina Dr. Yonis to help PhD students receive tailored guidance on their academic research through a model that combines human experts and ethical AI. The startup now makes its way into the UAE –the hub of AI innovation and edtech– with hopes to deepen its impact.

This year's theme is 'All In: Career, Money, and Life.' The WE Convention 2025 will discuss how financial independence influences women's lives and explore the paths to achieving it.

The brand operates with sustainability at its core and follows a conscious approach to fabric consumption to minimize the impact on the environment.

"For me, the virtual world is not a replacement but an extension—a natural continuation and complement to my creative process."

"The momentum came from real reactions and genuine word of mouth, and I think that's exactly why it resonated. We didn't have a structured marketing plan or budget. It was all about people connecting with the product and sharing it because they truly believed in it."

Ashley Aquilina, founder of Ashley Aquilina Academy, on how an unshakeable belief in her craft became the foundation of a remarkable business journey.

Selected women-led startups will have access to up to 550,000 AED (US$ 150,000) in equity-free funding from the Standard Chartered Foundation.

Mika Brzezinski and Huma Abedin advise women to own their worth, unapologetically.

In this candid conversation, Layla challenges the myths surrounding conservatism and religious values, arguing that modern culture often distorts the essence of faith and morality.

As the quest for more inclusivity in literary publications continues, here's how four Arab female authors -Najwa Zebian, Sara Hamdan, Zoulfa Katouh, and Noura Alkhoori- are pushing the envelope in enabling wider acceptance for uniquely diverse stories.

Yamuna and Ayesha embody the truth that "age is nothing but a number," proving that wisdom has no age limit.

Mona Kattan, will now partner with General Atlantic, a leading global growth equity firm.

"My vision for the brand goes beyond fashion- it's a philosophy that elevates women's confidence and self-esteem."

Research shows that while women in the UAE are eager to lead and innovate, many remain confined to local markets.

"It's easy to push people, but love is what inspires them to work from the heart. I'm proud of the people I work with; they have a strong bond with me, and they know I have their backs."

"I believe that a company at the leading edge globally for school design and school furniture design should be based in the UAE."

"My biggest source of happiness is not the exponential growth we have achieved over the last ten years, but rather the fact that we still maintain the key pillars upon which we built Aisha Jewels, but only in a bigger way."