Growing up across three distinct cultures—the UAE, Oman, and Canada—has profoundly shaped who I am and how I lead. Today, as the President of Noor Machinery, I find myself constantly drawing on the lessons I learned from my multicultural upbringing and diverse work experiences. The world is growing smaller every day, and the ability to adapt and thrive in various cultural landscapes is now one of the most valuable assets a leader can have. Being a “global entrepreneur” means more than just doing business internationally; it’s about building bridges, understanding others deeply, and leading with an open mind.
Embracing Cultural Diversity from an Early Age
My journey began in a UN refugee camp, and soon after, I was raised in the UAE and Oman. In those countries, I was exposed to rich traditions, diverse languages, and a deep respect for community values. As I moved to Canada in my teenage years, I found myself in an environment that was entirely different yet equally fascinating. Canada is a mosaic of cultures, where acceptance and inclusivity are woven into everyday life. My transition from the Middle East to North America was challenging at times, but it was also rewarding. Every place taught me something unique, and today, I see those experiences as invaluable assets.
In the business world, having this multicultural background has helped me build stronger relationships with people from all walks of life. I can relate to people on different levels and understand their perspectives in a way that wouldn’t have been possible if I had grown up in just one country. The exposure to various cultures has given me an intuitive understanding of what it means to be adaptable and respectful of others, which I bring into every interaction I have.
The Power of Language and Communication
Speaking five languages has been one of the most transformative tools in my professional life. Language isn’t just a method of communication—it’s a doorway into someone else’s world. When you speak to someone in their native language, there’s an immediate sense of trust and respect. It shows you’re willing to make the effort to understand where they’re coming from. Each language I’ve learned has allowed me to see the world through a different lens and has given me insights into the values, humor, and expressions that shape each culture.
In business, this has been incredibly valuable. Communication is the heart of leadership, and being able to connect with people in multiple languages has allowed me to build relationships with clients, partners, and employees around the globe. It’s more than just speaking words; it’s about understanding cultural nuances and bridging gaps that might otherwise hinder mutual understanding. When you understand how to communicate effectively across cultures, you create an environment where people feel valued and respected. This trust is crucial in any business, but it’s especially important when leading a diverse team or working on international projects.
Adaptability: The Key to Thriving in a Global Market
Being an entrepreneur means being flexible, open to change, and willing to step outside your comfort zone. In my work as a contractor with the Department of Defense, I often found myself in challenging and unfamiliar situations. Working alongside various special forces and military units, I quickly learned that adaptability was the difference between success and failure. That lesson is just as relevant in the boardroom as it was in the field.
Running a business that operates in a global market requires the same level of adaptability. The world doesn’t operate on one set of rules, and what works in one country may not work in another. By embracing adaptability, I’ve been able to navigate different business environments and meet the needs of a diverse clientele. Whether it’s understanding legal regulations, respecting cultural norms, or adapting marketing strategies to fit a particular market, adaptability is what allows a business to not only survive but thrive internationally.
Leading with Empathy and Respect
One of the biggest takeaways from my multicultural background is the importance of empathy in leadership. Living in different countries, each with its own set of values and beliefs, has taught me to see things from multiple perspectives. When you’ve been an outsider in a new place, you develop an appreciation for the challenges others might face when they step into unfamiliar territory. This awareness has shaped the way I lead my team, approach my clients, and interact with business partners.
In today’s diverse workplace, empathy and respect are essential qualities for any leader. People want to feel understood and valued, regardless of their background. I make it a priority to create a culture at Noor Machinery where everyone’s voice is heard, and everyone feels they belong. This inclusive approach has helped us build a strong, cohesive team that’s committed to our mission. When people feel respected, they’re more engaged, more innovative, and more willing to go above and beyond for the company.
Building a Global Mindset
In a world that’s increasingly interconnected, having a global mindset is no longer optional—it’s essential. A global mindset isn’t just about knowing geography or speaking multiple languages; it’s about having a deep curiosity and openness to learn from different perspectives. It’s about recognizing that there’s always something to learn from others, no matter where they come from.
In my experience, building a global mindset has helped me stay ahead in business. It keeps me open to new ideas and new ways of doing things. As the world changes and new markets emerge, those who can think globally will be the ones who thrive. By staying curious and embracing a learning mindset, I’ve been able to adapt to new challenges and seize new opportunities, which has been crucial for our growth at Noor Machinery.
Multicultural Leadership for a Diverse World
My experiences across different cultures have not only shaped me as a person but also as a leader. In the business world, diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strength. Teams that are diverse in background, language, and experience bring unique insights and creative solutions to the table. By leading with an appreciation for diversity, I’ve been able to foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best.
Being a global entrepreneur means being able to connect with people from all backgrounds and create value that transcends borders. My multicultural experiences have given me the tools to do that, and they continue to inspire me every day. As the world becomes more interconnected, I believe that the ability to lead with an open mind and a respect for diversity will be one of the most valuable qualities any leader can have.
In the end, my journey has taught me that the world is full of lessons if we’re willing to learn from them. Whether we’re working across continents or building teams from different cultures, we’re all connected in ways that make us stronger together. And as a global entrepreneur, I’ve found that the path to success is one that embraces this diversity and builds on it, creating something greater than the sum of its parts.
