Embracing Leadership: Empowering Women in Finance

For years, finance professionals have been known for working diligently behind the scenes, dealing with numbers and data, quietly driving the financial world forward. But times are changing, and so are the expectations in the finance industry.

Well, in this blog, I, along with my amazing friends, Saba Wahaj, Rabia Shaukat and Saba Iqbal we started our CA journey together years back, will be sharing our personal experiences from being finance professionals to dynamic leaders.

My aim is to inspire and empower aspiring women finance professionals to embrace their true potential and make a lasting impact.

Embracing a Dynamic Leadership Role:

As women leaders in finance, we have embraced a more dynamic leadership role, and it has been an incredible journey of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. Below are some key insights on how we made this transformation:

1. Effective Communication is Key:

As finance professionals turned leaders, we understand the significance of effective communication. Breaking down complex financial jargon into simple language makes it easier for everyone in the organization to grasp the implications of financial decisions.

2. Embrace Technological Advancements:

The modern finance leader is not afraid to embrace cutting-edge technologies. From automation and AI-driven analytics to blockchain solutions, we leverage these tools to streamline processes, gain deeper insights, and enhance overall efficiency.

3. Becoming Agents of Change:

We are no longer just number-crunchers; we are change agents, driving transformation and adapting to the ever-evolving business landscape. Our ability to navigate uncertainty and guide the organization through challenges makes us invaluable assets.

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Inspiring Stories of Transformation

Let's now delve into our personal stories of transformation, where we broke free from the conventional mold and embraced dynamic leadership roles.

1. Saba Wahaj - Tax Manager, ALEC Engineering and Contracting L.LC.

Saba's journey as a finance professional has been nothing short of an incredible rollercoaster, filled with growth, challenges, and profound transformations. It all began when she started her career as an Auditor at Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, where she delved into financial reports, honing her skills with precision. Little did she know that this was just the beginning of an extraordinary adventure that would shape her career in ways beyond her wildest imagination.

A pivotal turn came when she joined PwC as a Manager of Taxation and Legal. While excelling in her financial expertise and supporting decision-making processes, Saba felt a yearning for more – a desire to step into leadership roles and create a real impact on organizations and individuals.

The defining moment arrived when she moved to the UAE and became a Tax Manager for the Etisalat Services Holding group. On her very first day, her CFO surprised her with an unexpected challenge - leading a crucial management committee meeting. Despite the nerves, Saba knew deep down that this was the moment she had been waiting for - a chance to step into leadership shoes and make a real difference.

Stepping out of her comfort zone was daunting, but Saba was determined to grow and excel. Her career soared to new heights as she took on roles as a Tax Manager at SHUAA Capital and ALEC, continuously building on her leadership abilities. Leading teams, making crucial decisions, and structuring strategies became second nature to her.

But Saba's journey didn't stop at personal growth and success. It led her to a profound mission - to empower and inspire the next generation of finance professionals. Today, she finds immense joy in mentoring and guiding young enthusiasts, igniting the same fire that drove her to become a dynamic leader.

2. Rabia Shaukat - Founder, ADSA Hospitality Finance Consultants

Rabia’s journey from a finance professional to a dynamic leader has been an incredible odyssey of growth, resilience, and unwavering determination. It all began with her humble beginnings as an Auditor at A.F. Ferguson & Co. (PwC), where she immersed herself in the world of numbers and financial analysis.

As Rabia progressed in her career, she realized that being a finance professional was not just about crunching numbers; it was about making a lasting impact on the organizations she served. Stepping into the role of a Corporate Internal Auditor at Engro Polymer & Chemicals Ltd. This shift demanded not only technical expertise but also the ability to lead and influence others.

Rabia embraced every challenge that came her way, from being a Director of Finance at prestigious hotels like Ajman Saray and Westin & Le Meridien Bahrain City Center to taking a maternity break for a year and a half. Her unwavering determination to excel as a leader pushed her to return to the corporate world, rejoining as the Corporate Financial Controller at the Landmark Group and climbing the ladder to become Senior Financial Controller (Group) at RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.

Despite facing hurdles and doubts along the way, she discovered her true calling in entrepreneurship and consulting. Embracing her entrepreneurial spirit, Rabia ventured into self-employment, establishing herself as a Finance Director and Consultant through her firm, ADSA Hospitality Finance Consultants.

As Rabia continues to make her mark in the finance industry as a dynamic leader, her story serves as an inspiration to women in finance, showing them the power of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of passion in creating a lasting impact in their careers and beyond. Through her remarkable journey, Rabia proves that with determination, women can rise to leadership positions and make a meaningful difference in their chosen fields.

3. Saba Iqbal - Finance Manager, Illusion Online

Saba Iqbal's journey in the finance profession began with humble origins and a determination to defy the odds. Growing up in a conservative household, she faced numerous challenges in pursuing her dreams. Her family's strict rules and regulations presented a significant barrier, especially as she aspired to enter the male-dominated world of finance. However, undeterred by these constraints, Saba found the inner strength to forge ahead, driven by a passion for numbers and an unyielding desire to make her mark in the financial industry.

Saba started her career as an Auditor at A.F. Ferguson & Co. (PwC). Though the initial phase was daunting, she embraced the challenges head-on. As she navigated the intricacies of finance and cleared her professional hurdles, Saba's determination only grew stronger. With an eagerness for personal and professional growth, she decided to embark on a new chapter in her life by moving to UAE. The change of scenery brought fresh opportunities and challenges, which she embraced with open arms. Saba's willingness to take calculated risks and explore uncharted territories proved instrumental in her journey to success.

She assumed the role of finance manager in an insurance brokerage. From the very first day, she was met with a deluge of responsibilities and challenges. Saba's ability to adapt quickly, coupled with her sharp financial acumen, earned her a position on various committees and put her at the forefront of decision-making.

Throughout here inspiring career, she faced significant personal challenges, including maternity leave and the unexpected disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she exemplified the art of balance, managing her professional responsibilities with utmost dedication while prioritizing her family's needs.

According to her, the crux of her leadership skills is to discover that being a leader went beyond number crunching and financial expertise. She realized the power of empathizing with her team, delving into the root problems faced by her colleagues, and offering solutions that addressed their concerns. This revelation marked a turning point in her leadership journey, as she transformed into a true mentor and nurturer of talent and today, she works by my side in creating job opportunities for other finance female professionals.

4. Khushboo Mushtaq - Co-Founder & Director, athGADLANG

Well, my journey from a finance professional to an inspirational leader has been a tale of consistent growth, resilience, and taking a leap of faith. It all began with my role as an Auditor Ernst & Young, where I dived into the world of financial audits and analysis, learning the ropes of the corporate world.

As I progressed in my career, I joined BDO at a Managerial position, I realized that my potential extended far beyond the confines of a conventional role. There was a spark within me, a desire to lead, mentor, and create an impact beyond the spreadsheets and financial statements.

The turning point of my journey came when I took a bold step to venture into the world of startup. Alongside other visionary minds, I co-founded athGADLANG, an endeavor that marked a significant departure from my corporate job. It was a thrilling, nerve-wracking, and life-changing decision.

Being one of the founding members of athGADLANG allowed me to embrace challenges like never before. I had to step out of my comfort zone, leaving behind the familiarity of the corporate world, and embrace the uncertainty of a startup. But with an amazing team by my side, we turned challenges into opportunities, nurtured our strengths, and fueled our passion for success.

The journey of nurturing a startup has been nothing short of amazing. Together, we faced obstacles head-on, turned setbacks into stepping stones, and celebrated every milestone with joy and pride. My team supported and inspired me, helping me discover my true potential as a leader.

Today, as the Regional Director of Advisory at athGADLANG, I not only manage financial matters but also empower and mentor a talented team. Every day brings new opportunities to inspire, innovate, and make a difference in the lives of our clients and colleagues.

This transformation from a finance professional to an inspirational leader has enriched my career and outlook profoundly. I have learned that leadership goes beyond managing numbers; it is about empowering others, fostering a positive work environment, and creating a lasting impact.

Your Time to Rise and Shine

To all aspiring women finance professionals, we want to say: don't be afraid to embrace your leadership potential, explore uncharted territories, and surround yourself with a supportive team. You have the power to conquer new heights and make a difference in the world. Embrace the changing expectations of the finance industry, and let your brilliance shine as a dynamic woman leader in finance!

Calling All Inspirational Female Leaders!

If you're a trailblazing female leader with a story to tell, I would be glad to feature your inspiring journey in my upcoming blogs. Your experiences and insights have the power to uplift, motivate, and empower others on their paths to success.

You can connect with me directly through LinkedIn messages. Together, let's illuminate the path for the leaders of tomorrow and create a community of support and inspiration.