Stories

As a native of the UAE, my journey into the professional world began immediately after completing my college exams. Armed with cultural insight and local know-how, I secured a position in FMCG within a week. Little did I know that this initial step would not only define my career trajectory, but also shape my work ethic and approach to business for years to come.

They say that the habits and work ethic formed early in one’s career become ingrained, setting the tone for how tasks, deadlines and responsibilities are approached throughout one’s professional life. This certainly held true in my case as I found myself immersed in the world of P&G for first 4 years, where the language spoken was a unique one – that of the Customer Business Development (CBD) Manager as a role.

The term might not be widely used, but at P&G, it represented a crucial role: developing the business of the customer, often a retailer. As a supplier, my initial confusion was understandable – why focus on the retailer’s business development when the primary goal is to sell our company’s products and foster our business? However, it was during these formative years that I learned the paradigm of thinking ‘customer-first’. This approach involved offering products in a way that enhanced the customer’s sales, creating marketing collateral and integrating ‘our products’ into advertising efforts to boost the customer’s business, ultimately benefiting both parties.

After five years of adopting this mindset, I found myself transitioning to the telecom industry in 2005 as Sales Manager, just as mobile phones were becoming a ubiquitous commodity. The shift was drastic. The industry mantra was to “move the box as if there is no tomorrow,” emphasizing relentless selling. This clashed with my ingrained customer-centric philosophy, leading to a period of adaptation and finding a balance. Fortunately, having bosses from major FMCG companies helped bridge the gap, allowing us to challenge the status quo and pioneer a customer business development approach within the telecom sector. The result was a revolutionary channel that annually sold billions AED worth of mobile phones, defying conventional industry practices.

Fast forward a decade with Virgin Mobile, Redington and in my current role with TCL as Regional Manager, managing operations & Distributors across GCC and Pakistan, the principle of an end-to-end business development has remained my guiding philosophy. Whether working with distributors or operators, I firmly believe that the movement of our products at customer premises determines our market share and the future of our company. Thinking ‘business development’ rather than merely selling products has become the cornerstone of my approach – a simple concept that, when executed effectively, works like magic. Yes, it is important that companies develop marketing strategies and products/services to standout, but ‘partner focus’ is parallelly important part when it comes to long term distribution strategy and ultimately ensuring availability on a global scale.

In conclusion, my journey from FMCG to the telecoms industry has been an adventure of adaptation, innovation and a steadfast commitment to customer business development. It reaffirms the belief that a customer-centric mindset, coupled with strategic thinking and a commitment to partnership, can lead to unprecedented success in any industry.

Preeti is a marketing and E-commerce specialist – but her journey revolves around people and making a difference. Here is Preeti.  

Growing up in a modest setting, I encountered challenges that ignited my determination to create a better future. Born into a family that emphasized hard work and education, I recognised the importance of both from an early age. I took on odd jobs and taught kids in my community. As a young adult, the world outside Delhi seemed like an unattainable dream. Fate, however, had a different plan. An incredible opportunity led me to Qatar, a place filled with boundless possibilities.

In Qatar, I discovered a world of opportunities. I had the privilege to work in advertising and marketing with prestigious organisations like Qatar Airways and on projects like the FIFA World Cup Qatar, contributing to endeavours that celebrated global moments.

This experience expanded my horizons, exposed me to diverse cultures, and humbled me in countless ways. It served as a reminder that determination and seizing opportunities could lead to extraordinary adventures.

But my journey is not just about personal success; it’s about extending a helping hand to those facing similar challenges. I was able to help students in Delhi from underprivileged backgrounds – their parents were typically working as cleaners, drivers etc. Most had reached out to my parents and I was keen to support. One such student was a recent graduate who I am helping with experience locally before applying for roles in UAE. I’ve embraced the role of a coach and mentor for people from these humble backgrounds, by trying to guide them towards brighter educational and career prospects with utmost humility and kindness. I simply want to help people to help their kids so their kids feel a better like and better prospects are achievable.

My story is a testament that no dream is too ambitious, and no background can restrict ones potential. It’s a tale of resilience, empowerment, and the joy of assisting others. The challenges I faced in my youth became stepping stones to uplift others, creating a ripple effect of positive transformation, all while I remained grounded and compassionate.

I live my life with the belief that everyone deserves a chance to shine, irrespective of their background. By empowering others, I remain a part of their journeys, just as others played a vital role in mine. It’s a circle of support and inspiration that transcends boundaries, embodying the spirit of the Connection Revolution.

As I share this story, my hope is that it inspires others to believe in their capabilities and encourages them to lend a helping hand to those in need, fostering a world where opportunities are accessible to all, and dreams are realised with humility and kindness.

I’m here as a breast cancer survivor to share my journey – a tale of resilience and hope. It was a milestone that changed my life, a rebirth after enduring 18 sessions of chemo, 12 rounds of radiation and 4 major surgeries. Through the storm of a mastectomy, vision loss, ovary removal, countless tests and scans, that I found strength in the blend of faith and science.
In December 2018, a free screening led me to the hospital, initially just for fun. Little did I know that it would be a turning point. Despite my beliefs, cancer became a reality in my life. Pain in my left breast triggered alarms, even though cancer usually isn’t painful. Ultrasound marked the beginning of my cancer journey. The biopsy results shattered my disbelief.
Support from family and friends was my anchor. My insurance shielded me through surgeries, giving me comfort during a challenging time. Chemo, the battle within, made each day a struggle, but the support of loved ones and meditation fuelled my determination. My appearance changed, but I embraced my new self, finding beauty in resilience.
The road was tough, with radiation, surgeries and treatments affecting my eyesight and ovaries. Yet, I pressed on, meditation keeping me centred and surrounded by positivity. My daily routine continued, my job became a healing force, helping me feel normal during a ‘not-so-normal time’.
On November 28, 2019, I emerged from another operation, stronger than before. Radiation followed, as did vision surgeries and the removal of my ovary. Medications and meditations became my daily companions, weaving a tapestry of healing and perseverance.
I urge each one of you to embrace self-examinations and screenings. Cancer touches many lives – 1/8 women to be precise. Let’s stand together in spreading awareness, making early detection a priority. My journey is a testament that strength, support and determination can triumph over adversity.
Through my journey as a breast cancer survivor, I’ve learned that adversity can reveal our strength. Embrace self-care, lean on your support system and maintain positivity. Embracing change and finding beauty in resilience are powerful tools, as is staying mindful and continuing with your normal routine. Advocate for your needs, cherish the protection of insurance, and spread awareness for early detection. Most importantly, celebrate every day as a precious gift. Let’s stand together, finding strength in unity and hope.

Let’s hear powerful story from Anum Khaleeq – a modern day woman balancing both work and family time. I have been an extremely driven and