27 WOTYA 2025 womanthismonth.com | JANUARY 2026 Winner of the Rising Star in the Orange Economy, presented by UNIDO, at the Woman of the Year Awards 2025, Eman Sharif is a traveller and changemaker who transforms her passion for adventure and volunteering into meaningful global impact. Through purpose-led initiatives and community-driven projects, she inspires women to explore beyond boundaries, contribute with intention and create lasting change, using each journey as a platform for personal and collective transformation. What was a moment during the ceremony that felt most meaningful to you? The most meaningful moment for me was standing on stage and realising that this recognition was never just about me. It carried the weight of years shaped by doubt, courage and difficult choices, leaving comfort behind and choosing purpose over certainty. In that moment, I felt humbled, grateful and deeply connected to every challenge that has shaped who I am today. Were there any reactions from family, team, or community that surprised you? What touched me most was the response from the wider community. Messages from women I had never met, sharing how my journey gave them the courage to take their first step, reminded me that real impact lives in human connection, not in titles or recognition. How has winning informed your priorities or plans since the awards night? Winning reaffirmed that leadership comes with responsibility. It reminded me to be even more intentional with my platform, to think beyond growth, and to focus on creating meaningful and lasting impact for women and communities who need access, opportunity and belief in their own potential. How will you use the prize, platform, or network that came with this award? I intend to use this platform to amplify stories that often go unheard, to build deeper collaborations around adventure, volunteering and social impact, and to create spaces where women feel seen, supported and brave enough to step into what once felt impossible. What concrete next steps or milestones are you committing to in the next 12 months? Over the next 12 months, I am committed to expanding Campfire Adventures internationally, launching new volunteering initiatives, and developing purpose-driven programmes that empower women through experience, leadership and meaningful connection. What is one piece of advice you would give to young women looking up to you now that you have won? Do not wait to feel ready. No one ever truly is. Fear does not disappear before growth; it walks beside it. Trust your values, honour your journey, and remember that choosing yourself is not selfish. It is where everything begins.
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