DUBAI, UAE — Women’s advancement in leadership roles can motivate the next generation to work toward a more sustainable future, Maryam Al-Mansoori, General Manager of Rebound Plastic Exchange, told TRENDS in an interview.
Businesswomen should use their emotional intelligence and soft power to their advantage and learn to voice their opinions and participate in relevant debates, added the 25-year-old Emirati woman.
Maryam, a finance graduate, had launched her startup, Rebound Plastic Exchange (RPX), during the lockdown in 2020. The goal was to promote sustainable living by providing eco-friendly alternatives to disposable plastic items. RPX’s focus is to inspire customers to be more environmentally conscious with their purchasing decisions and reduce their carbon footprint.
Maryam’s inspiration came from the prevalent issue of plastic pollution and the commodity’s economic viability. “In the environmental sector, numerous startups are established by women. The journey of women in technology and leadership begins in the heart, as they lead with passion and care for their teams and organizations,” she said.
RPX’s staff is comprised of over 50 percent women. “Having women make up half of my team has given me great strength and support. Moreover, women’s advancement in leadership roles can motivate the next generation to work toward a more sustainable future”, said Maryam.
Maryam claimed that their dedication to diversity and inclusion has allowed them to draw from a larger talent pool and generate more creative and successful solutions for clients. However, Maryam has faced challenges in male-dominated rooms, primarily due to her gender.
“We’re all dedicated to each other’s continued success. Because of our dedication to diversity and inclusion, RPX can draw from a larger talent pool and generate more creative and successful solutions for our clients. In addition to helping our staff, this strategy will help make the future more sustainable and fair for everyone”, she said.
Yet, one of the significant challenges for Maryam was getting to speak in rooms where men were the majority. She clarified: “This was mostly because of my gender, not my nationality.”
Maryam remained thankful for the substantial support that women receive from GCC governments, especially in education and employment. GCC countries are establishing initiatives, such as mentorship programs and opportunities for women-owned enterprises, to promote gender equality and encourage women to take on leadership roles in various fields.
Maryam’s message to all women was to not be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. She encouraged women to invest in themselves and pursue their goals, stating that the skills they learn will set them apart from the competition more than any degree or job could.
“Don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes, as they are opportunities for growth and learning. Remember that your unique perspective and ideas have value, and can positively impact the world,” she said.“Women in the region need to be patient, attentive, and teachable to succeed at building a business. The skills women learn here will set them apart from the competition more than any degree or job could. Women can get a head start on their career by picking the brains of successful businesspeople and getting their feet wet at a young age. Don’t let doubt prevent you from investing in yourself and pursuing your goals”, Maryam concluded.