Navigating Business as Women: Insights on Bias, Balance and Inclusive Leadership
The journey of women in business today is shaped by unique challenges and opportunities that call for resilience, authenticity and intentional leadership. In conversations with several of our team members at Nomadic Middle East, we explored their personal strategies for overcoming gender-based biases, maintaining work-life balance and building inclusive workplace cultures.
Redefining Stereotypes and Remaining Authentic
Women often face preconceived notions in professional spaces, and Assistant Manager Youstina Ailabouni knows this challenge firsthand throughout her career. Reflecting on her previous experience, she observed that women are sometimes “boxed into one of two categories – seen either as a knowledgeable professional based on merit or, unfairly, with their abilities questioned due to appearance or age.” Her approach? A commitment to staying authentic and addressing biases head-on.
“In this day and age, prejudices of any nature should be disregarded,” Youstina states, urging women to “take up the space afforded to them without fear” and to draw boundaries that support respect and self-worth.
Balancing Professional and Personal Priorities
Work-life balance is an ongoing conversation in business, and for Immigration Consultant Khadija Lawal, this balance is achieved through strategic planning and intentional focus. She notes, “A successful strategy I practice is to pencil in some ‘focus time’ to power through high-priority tasks,” allowing her to transition smoothly to personal life and relationships by the end of each workday.
Khadija also credits her success to qualities like perseverance and dedication. She views obstacles as “learning experiences,” reinforcing the importance of setting clear goals and continuously seeking growth.
Creating a Culture of Inclusion and Empowerment
Assistant Manager Minu Joseph believes an inclusive work culture, rooted in merit, is essential for empowering all team members. Growing up with access to equal opportunities, Minu has carried this approach into her professional life, focusing on merit and positive attitudes in team evaluations.
"Leading by example, I actively avoid and discourage gender-related discussions, cultivating an environment where everyone is treated with respect and equality." - Minu Joseph, Nomadic Assistant Manager
Minu's approach includes open communication, flexible schedules and an inclusivity-focused hiring process—all of which help create a supportive environment for her team.
At Nomadic, the insights and experiences of women like Youstina, Khadija and Minu reveal how authenticity, balance and inclusivity can guide anyone striving for success in the corporate world.
Minu captures the essence of this journey, saying, “Having worked at Fragomen and Nomadic for many years, I've never felt overlooked as a woman; instead, I've felt empowered. I'm committed to continuing this legacy by ensuring all team members feel equally valued and respected.”
Their stories serve as a testament to the resilience and innovation that women bring to the global business landscape.
Connect with Youstina, Khadija and Minu on LinkedIn.