womanthismonth.com | DECEMBER 2025 WOTYA 4 The Woman of the Year Awards 2025 is entering its defining moment as the top contenders in each category come into focus. Across business, culture, community and sport, these finalists reflect the calibre guiding Bahrain’s future. In this special spread, we present the leading three in every category, women whose influence is already reshaping the narrative long before the awards night begins. Fajer Saleh Al Pachachi A purpose-driven entrepreneur and Chairperson known for advancing sustainable innovation through ventures such as Biolights. An ICF-certified business coach and community leader who champions ethical finance, empowerment and impact-driven leadership. Recognised among Business Elite’s “40 Under 40.” Alaa Busheri Head of Global Emerging Markets Fixed Income at BNP Paribas Asset Management, leading investment teams across London, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. With extensive expertise in global markets and portfolio strategy, she holds an MBA from Imperial College London and is recognised for her leadership in international finance. A purpose-driven entrepreneur and Chairperson known for advancing sustainable innovation through ventures An award-winning pioneer in Ocha and Japanese culture, serving as Bahrain’s Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador. Serves as Head of Strategies at a leading group holding company and sits on multiple boards, including affiliated Founder of Azza Jewelry, a visionary Bahraini entrepreneur redefining fine jewelry and pioneering the nation’s first luxury A politician, businesswoman and author serving on the Shura Council since 2010. Widely known for work in A long-term Bahrain resident who helps lead an inclusive and forwardthinking educational community as Tanima Chakravorty Budoor Steele Jehan Mohamed Jamel Mansoor Azza Hujairi Nancy Khedouri Shanee Puri such as Biolights. An ICF-certified business coach and community leader who champions ethical finance, empowerment and impact-driven leadership. Recognised among Business Elite’s “40 Under 40.” Founder of a traditional Japanese teahouse and certified Urasenke tea ceremony instructor, with a master’s degree in Japanese Humanities. Promotes cultural appreciation through tea traditions and arts. non-profit organisations. Holds an MA from SOAS and is the first Bahraini woman to serve as Deputy Chief of Staff to the UN General Assembly President. piercing studio. A mother of four, she blends heritage with innovation, empowering women, preserving culture, and shaping a bold regional future for creative entrepreneurship. intercultural dialogue, community engagement and national development, and a strong advocate for social cohesion and public service. Executive Chair and Ambassador of a wellestablished family-run school, continuing a legacy of innovation and student-centred learning. WOMAN IN FINANCE WOMAN IN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP WOMAN IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP WITH INNOVATION
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