31 WOTYA 2025 womanthismonth.com | JANUARY 2026 Winner of the Woman in Finance category at the Woman of the Year Awards 2025, Fajer Saleh Al Pachachi brings more than 16 years of experience in investment management, strategic operations and business development. She has led major growth initiatives across Bahrain’s public and private sectors, including the establishment of Hope Ventures and the facilitation of investments in 19 start-ups. Her work is defined by a commitment to building sustainable impact. What was the moment during the ceremony that felt most meaningful to you? The most meaningful moment was realising that the journey itself, with its challenges, sacrifices and steady perseverance, was being recognised. It reflected the unseen moments: late nights, difficult decisions and a quiet commitment to continuous learning and improvement. As a woman in this sector, the path is not always straightforward. Balancing ambition with responsibility, and professional growth with personal commitments, requires resilience and determination. This recognition felt bigger than a personal achievement. It acknowledged the discipline, consistency and belief required to persevere. Were there any reactions that surprised you? What stayed with me most were the reactions from people who knew me in very different ways. Some through brief encounters, others through years of working together. Regardless of the depth of the relationship, the pride and genuine support were the same. Those responses reaffirmed that leadership is not about being seen, but about making others feel supported and respected. I was equally moved by the support of my family and the knowledge that the choices and effort along the way made them proud. How has winning informed your priorities or plans since the awards night? This award has deepened my sense of responsibility and purpose. It reinforced that success is not defined solely by personal milestones, but by the impact you create and the opportunities you help unlock for others. It has strengthened my commitment to lead with intention, invest in people, support the growth of women in finance, and contribute to a sector in Bahrain that values integrity, inclusion and longterm impact. How will you use the prize, platform or network that came with this award? I intend to use this visibility to support women at different stages of their careers and contribute to a culture where ambition is encouraged. If this platform helps even one woman feel more confident about her path, it will have served its purpose. What concrete next steps or milestones are you committing to in the next 12 months? Over the next year, I am committed to being more intentional about both impact and growth. Professionally, this means strengthening my role and the initiatives I am involved in, with a focus on long-term value, strong governance and sustained performance. On a leadership level, I aim to work more closely with women through mentoring and guidance, supporting them as they navigate their career paths and build confidence on their own terms. What is one piece of advice you would give to young women looking up to you now? Do not be afraid to start, even when you do not feel ready. Work hard, stay consistent and trust that progress comes from showing up again and again. Failure is not an endpoint but an experience. What sets people apart is perseverance. Believe in yourself, keep going when it is difficult, and do not give up on goals that matter to you.
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