May 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 12 showcase MERCHANT PARTNERS Four women who work closely with Imtiaz For Her share their thoughts on business opportunities and the road to success Hosts What inspired you to go into this field? My passion for beauty and art. I love to be part of people’s lives and happy occasions; therefore, my aim is to be successful in a field which I love and by spreading joy and beauty. Did you encounter any particularly female-specific challenges? I wouldn’t say that I have encountered specific challenges because of my gender, but I had some difficulties “at some points” in dealing with people who underestimate me, specially in a masculine environment. At the end, a woman’s personality and her faith in herself win the situation. If yes, how did you deal with them? In every difficult situation in life, regardless of whether in business or otherwise, a person should evaluate the situation and him/herself then decide either to try again and gain or to choose another direction. What is the most rewarding part of your business? Gaining knowledge and experience in different aspects in life, developing a mature and aware personality and getting to know different kinds of people; some have developed into friendships. Would you encourage other women to seek careers in this field? I encourage women to search and experience their passion and interest in life. Each person has different capabilities and potential. Keeping yourself updated and aware and living different experiences will guide you to discover what path in life you should follow. If yes, what would you say are three things they will need to succeed? In my field, I would say: knowledge, innovation and attitude, including patience. SHAIKHA TAHER ALI ALORRAYEDH Creative director at Sokola Chocolates What inspired you to go into this field? I have always loved weddings and event organising. Supplying chocolate is within the same category. Did you encounter any particularly female-specific challenges? Being a mother. If yes, how did you deal with them? I decided to take a step further and go for better management of my daily family commitments against my business objectives. I must say, it is a hard task to manage, but I have to be persistent towards my goals. What is the most rewarding part of your business? When your products are recognised by the top experienced chefs in town! Would you encourage other women to seek careers in this field? Yes, if they’re passionate about it If yes, what would you say are three things they will need to succeed? • Never give up. • Identify the opportunities and challenges. • Never compare yourself to others. It’s a dead end. Do what YOU are passionate about and work hard for it. FATIMA RASHED Entrepreneur and managing director at Bloomings Flowers
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