womanthismonth.com | OCTOBER 2025 MOTORING 61 Her career began in 2011 while studying at university, where she led LEADco, an AIESEC project aimed at helping students develop interpersonal skills. “As Organising Committee President, I wore many hats, from planning and execution to branding and communications,” she explains. Later, as Vice President of Incoming Exchange, she welcomed international talent to Bahrain, gaining invaluable crosscultural experience. Alongside her studies, she freelanced with agencies and event firms, contributing to activations for brands such as Porsche, Mercedes, Samsung, Rolls-Royce and BMW. “What drew me to marketing was its creative dimension and the ability to craft brand stories and watch them come to life,” she says. In 2018 she transitioned full-time into automotive marketing with Audi Bahrain and has since thrived in an industry traditionally dominated by men. “Though automotive has been male-dominated, I’ve seen women become powerful drivers of change, both as employees and consumers,” she says. “Today women influence over 60 percent of car-buying decisions. For me, the key was realising I didn’t need to fit in. By bringing empathy, creativity and storytelling to the forefront, I’ve been able to highlight lifestyle, experience and emotional connection. Being a woman in this field is about showing the value diversity brings.” According to Ms. Ahmed, customer engagement is more important than simply campaigns. She explains: “It’s really about bringing the brand to life through experiences. Drive events, track days and lifestyle collaborations allow clients to feel Porsche’s performance first-hand, creating emotional connections that last. Personalisation ensures every touchpoint is meaningful, while community-building through Porsche Club fosters loyalty and belonging.” A passionate traveller, she draws inspiration from her adventures: “Travelling challenges me to step out of my comfort zone,” she reveals. Climbing mountains and exploring off-thebeaten-path destinations expose me to new ways of living and thinking, which spark creativity and fresh ideas.” She credits curiosity, resilience and discipline as key traits that fuel her success. “I actively seek experiences that push my boundaries, whether climbing high-altitude mountains, exploring new places or learning new skills.” Furthermore, continuous learning is central to her philosophy. “My experience across luxury brands, combined with creative exploration, helps me adapt strategies to evolving markets. I invest in personal development through courses in neuroscience in marketing, progressive meditation, cold exposure and breathwork, alongside a Master’s-level Marketing and CRM certification from Lamborghini Academy. Being a lifelong student is key; there’s always more to learn!” As for advice to young women beginning to forge their careers, Ms. Ahmed’s advice is to “Embrace your individuality, stay curious and never stop learning. Seek experiences that push you beyond your comfort zone and surround yourself with mentors who inspire you.” Away from work, she finds balance through fitness, adventure and quiet reflection. “I train regularly, enjoy ice baths and breathwork, and love adrenaline-filled experiences like climbing mountains. At the same time, I cherish quiet evenings with family or a good book. Balancing adventure and rest helps me stay focused and creative.” Woman This Month speaks to Head of Marketing and PR for Porsche Centre Bahrain, Semreen Ahmed, who is one of the automotive industry’s brightest marketers having previously managed marketing and PR for Bentley and Lamborghini. Driven by Passion and Perspective I actively seek experiences that push my boundaries, whether climbing high-altitude mountains, exploring new places or learning new skills.” -Semreen Ahmed
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==