Author: admin
The 10 Most Innovative Business Leaders to Follow in 2023
The 8 Most Entrepreneur-Friendly Cities in the World
Are you an entrepreneur looking for the perfect place to launch your next big business venture?
Finding the right city can be a challenge, but with so many great options out there, it’s possible to find one that fits your needs.
From tech hubs in America and Europe to up-and-coming cities in Asia and South America, there are plenty of places around the world where entrepreneurs can thrive.
Here is a list of some of the most entrepreneur-friendly cities in the world.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin, Germany offers a low cost of living compared to other major European cities, and its vibrant startup culture makes it an attractive location for aspiring business owners.
There are many government incentives available for startups, including grants and tax breaks that make the city an ideal place to launch a new business.
Berlin is home to numerous accelerator programs, coworking spaces and venture capital firms that provide resources and support to entrepreneurs.
The city also boasts an impressive talent pool of professionals from all over the world, making it easy to connect with like-minded people who can collaborate on projects and help take ideas forward.
Berlin’s excellent public transportation system makes it simple for entrepreneurs to get around and access all the city has to offer.
All in all, Berlin’s combination of affordability, resources, networking opportunities and talent make it one of the most entrepreneur-friendly cities in the world.
Hong Kong SAR, China
Hong Kong SAR, China is an ideal location for entrepreneurs looking to start and grow their businesses.
Thanks to its vibrant and unique culture, Hong Kong has become one of the most attractive destinations for startups and small business owners.
The city offers a number of incentives to encourage entrepreneurial growth, such as tax breaks, grants, and easy access to capital.
The economic and political stability of Hong Kong creates a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs.
The low costs of living, excellent transportation system, and highly efficient legal system also make it easy to establish and operate a business in Hong Kong SAR, China.
With its strategic location in Asia, entrepreneurs can enjoy access to several markets around the world.
Given this impressive environment for entrepreneurial growth, it’s easy to see why Hong Kong SAR, China has become one of the most entrepreneur-friendly cities in the world.
With its supportive government policies and access to capital, it provides a great opportunity for businesses to thrive and grow.
Hong Kong’s vibrant culture and unique atmosphere make it a desirable location for startups and entrepreneurs.
And with access to markets around the globe, it is an ideal place to launch new projects or services.
Singapore
This city-state boasts a strong and diverse economy, as well as low taxes and a pro-business government.
Singapore also has a well-educated population, making it one of the most attractive places in the world to launch a new venture.
With close proximity to other nations in the region, it is easy to secure the resources needed for success.
Singapore’s advanced infrastructure and thriving startup ecosystem provide an incomparable support system for entrepreneurs.
The country has a vibrant cultural scene with plenty of events and activities to take part in, making it an inspiring place for anyone looking to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
New York City, USA
New York City has a vibrant and diverse economy, a wealth of resources and opportunities, and an abundance of networking possibilities.
The city is home to many major businesses such as JP Morgan Chase & Co., Goldman Sachs, Blackrock, Reuters, Bloomberg LP and more.
There are also numerous financial institutions and venture capital firms located in the city, making it an ideal place to launch a business.
New York City provides access to countless professionals and entrepreneurs as well as plenty of support for those just starting out.
The city also boasts one of the most educated populations in the world, which can be helpful when networking or finding employees to hire.
Finally, the sheer size and presence of New York City means that it can provide a global platform for entrepreneurs to launch their businesses on.
Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv is often referred to as the “startup nation.” Located in the Middle East, this city has become a hotbed for entrepreneurs and innovators.
Boasting a highly educated population and access to venture capital, Tel Aviv provides an ideal atmosphere for startups looking to launch their business.
The Israeli government has implemented several initiatives specifically designed to foster innovation and growth in the city.
Tel Aviv is home to a variety of world-renowned universities, providing entrepreneurs with access to cutting-edge research and development opportunities.
From its thriving business environment to its vibrant culture, there’s no doubt that Tel Aviv is one of the most entrepreneur-friendly cities in the world.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco, California is home to some of the most innovative companies in the world, including Apple, Twitter, Uber, and Airbnb.
With its bustling tech industry, San Francisco has become a hotbed for aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to make their mark on the world.
The city also boasts a supportive and collaborative atmosphere with plenty of networking events, incubators, accelerators and venture capitalists.
The Bay Area’s diverse population also provides entrepreneurs with a range of resources from around the world.
San Francisco is an excellent place to start or grow your business due to its cosmopolitan atmosphere, access to capital and unique culture.
It’s no wonder that many successful entrepreneurs have made their mark in San Francisco.
From tech giants to aspiring entrepreneurs, everyone is welcomed in San Francisco and its diverse communities.
London, UK
With a population of over 8 million people, London boasts one of the largest and most diverse populations in the world.
This diverse population provides entrepreneurs with a wealth of different customers to market their products or services to, increasing their chances at success.
The city has also become a hub for venture capitalists, providing startups with access to capital and mentorship.
The UK’s tax system is beneficial to entrepreneurs as it helps them keep more of their profits and easily access grants from the government.
The city is also home to a host of co-working spaces and accelerators that provide entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, Netherlands’ central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for expanding internationally.
It’s also known for its strong support system that encourages startups and new ventures, both financial and social.
Companies based in Amsterdam can access generous tax breaks, specialized programs to help them grow, and a range of networking events that help entrepreneurs make valuable connections.
The city also boasts an open economy which helps to foster innovation, research and development.
Amsterdam is a major center for creative industries such as design, fashion, gaming and digital media, providing countless opportunities for entrepreneurs.
The city is home to many co-working spaces, incubators and accelerators that are dedicated to helping entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life.
Amsterdam is also an incredibly international city, with over 180 different nationalities living in the city. This makes it a great option for anyone looking to expand their business worldwide.
Final Word
In conclusion, the cities mentioned in this article are some of the most entrepreneur-friendly places on earth.
Each city offers something unique and has its own advantages when it comes to launching a business venture.
Whether you’re looking for an inspiring atmosphere or access to resources that can help your startup succeed, these cities have what entrepreneurs need.
With so many great options available, there is sure to be one that appeals to you and meets your needs perfectly.
So why not take advantage of all they have to offer by starting up your next big idea? You may just find yourself living in one of these incredible entrepreneurial hubs!
How To Prepare For Medical Emergencies In The Workplace
No matter what industry you work in, medical emergencies can happen at any time.
It is important that both employers and employees are prepared to handle these situations quickly and appropriately in order to minimize the potential harm of an incident.
Being aware of the risks associated with workplace medical emergencies and having a plan for how to respond can help keep everyone safe and secure
We will discuss how to prepare for medical emergencies in the workplace so that you are ready if an emergency arises.
We will look at steps employers should take to ensure their workplaces are safe, as well as tips for employees on how they can be prepared for a possible emergency situation.
By following these guidelines, you can help make sure your workplace is ready when it comes to handling medical issues or accidents.
Steps Employers Should Take To Prepare For Medical Emergencies
It is essential for employers to take proactive measures to ensure that their employees are safe and able to respond effectively in the event of a medical emergency.
Employers should conduct risk assessments, develop a medical emergency response plan, communicate the policies and procedures with staff members, and designate a team that is trained and equipped to handle emergencies.
Medical emergencies can take many forms. Common medical emergencies include cardiac arrest, stroke, allergic reactions, head or neck injuries, and broken bones.
Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest is one of the most serious medical emergencies that can occur in the workplace. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing it to stop beating.
This results in an immediate loss of consciousness and cessation of breathing.
Without prompt medical attention, cardiac arrest can lead to death in a matter of minutes. The response to this type of emergency should be rapid and decisive.
Stroke
A stroke is another serious medical emergency that can occur in the workplace. It occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted, depriving it of oxygen and causing cells to die.
There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
Ischemic strokes occur when an artery carrying oxygen-rich blood to the brain is blocked or narrowed.
Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain tissue.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions are a common type of medical emergency that can occur in the workplace.
An allergic reaction is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, food, or medicine.
Symptoms may include hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and anaphylaxis, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction.
Injuries
Head or neck injuries are another type of medical emergency that can occur in the workplace.
These types of injuries often occur due to falls, slips, and trips on uneven surfaces or due to being struck by a falling object.
Symptoms may include dizziness, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and paralysis.
Broken bones are a medical emergency that can occur in the workplace due to falls from heights or other accidents.
Symptoms may include severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity of the bone, and inability to move the affected area.
Tips For Employees On How To Prepare
Employees should take proactive measures to ensure they are prepared for any medical emergency in the workplace.
One way to prepare is to understand the warning signs associated with cardiac arrest, stroke, allergic reactions, head or neck injuries, and broken bones.
Knowing what to look for in each of these medical emergencies can help employees respond quickly and correctly when an emergency arises.
Employees should also familiarize themselves with the medical emergency response plan at their workplace so that they know how to respond in the event of an emergency.
Training is an important part of preparing for medical emergencies in the workplace.
Employees should be trained in first aid and CPR so that they are able to provide immediate care if someone experiences a medical emergency.
This training should include hands-on practice for procedures such as resuscitation and stabilization so that employees can have a better understanding of how to perform these life-saving measures.
Finally, employees should have access to an emergency response kit that includes an automated external defibrillator (AED), first aid supplies, and other necessary items for responding to medical emergencies.
Having this equipment readily available can help ensure that urgent care is provided if a medical emergency occurs in the workplace.
Additionally, if the injury occurs due to the employee’s negligence, it’s essential to seek the help of a personal injury lawyer. This is important because you may be eligible for compensation. You can Visit Site and know how a lawyer can assist you. They can guide you through the personal injury claim process and handle other legal matters related to your case.
The Benefits Of Being Prepared
Being prepared for medical emergencies in the workplace is essential for protecting both employees and employers.
Not only does being prepared help ensure that employees receive immediate and appropriate care in an emergency, but it also helps to reduce potential liability for employers.
Having a comprehensive plan in place for responding to medical emergencies can help to minimize disruption and confusion during an emergency situation.
This plan should include clear steps for responding to different types of medical emergencies and assign specific roles and responsibilities to ensure that all employees are aware of how to respond appropriately.
When employees are provided with proper training and supplies, they can be better equipped to provide life-saving care in an emergency.
What To Do During A Medical Emergency
When a medical emergency occurs in the workplace, it is essential that employees take immediate action to provide help and care.
In order to do this effectively, employees must be trained in appropriate response techniques for different types of medical emergencies.
This includes basic first aid and CPR certification so that they can respond appropriately to common medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest and strokes.
When responding to a medical emergency, employees should call 911 as soon as possible and provide clear information about the situation.
Employees should also begin providing basic first aid care while waiting for emergency personnel to arrive.
This may include performing CPR or using an AED if necessary.
Final Word
Medical emergencies can happen suddenly and without warning, making it essential for employees to be prepared.
By understanding the warning signs of common medical emergencies, familiarizing themselves with the workplace response plan, receiving proper training in first aid and CPR, and having access to an emergency response kit, employees can be better equipped to respond quickly and effectively when a medical emergency occurs.
Taking these proactive steps will help ensure that both employees and employers are protected in case of a medical emergency.
Ola Hesselroth: A Dynamic Leader, Spearheading Euvic’s Global Business and Taking It to New Heights
Presenting Mr. Ola Hesselroth, Vice President of International Business at Euvic! His charismatic persona, passion, and excellent leadership style highly inspired us and made us feature him in our exclusive edition, ‘Successful Business Leaders Making a Difference 2023’.
Ola is a highly skilled CXO, digital strategist and consultant, enabling numerous businesses to digitize and transform their operations using top-notch tools and frameworks. To develop innovative and scalable solutions, he used his skills in technology to found numerous companies.
The inspiring leader, Ola, holds a crucial position at Euvic as the Vice President of International Business, where he manages the business’s ongoing international expansion. He oversees Euvics international CEOs and collaborates closely with them to forge strategic alliances, assemble teams, foster leadership, spur global sales, and formulate business plans. Ola continues to fuel Euvic’s development on a global scale thanks to his extensive IT sector expertise and knowledge, which have proven helpful in his new position.
The Visionary Leader towards a Victorious Journey
Ola Hesselroth has always had a deep love for innovation and technology. He has worked with numerous firms throughout his career, assisting them in using cutting-edge procedures and technology to grow their operations. One day, he found an opportunity to work with Euvic, one of Europe’s most successful IT companies. It seemed like the perfect fit.
Ola was employed by a Swedish multinational company in 2010. He looked for IT partners worldwide and found Poland to have some of the most outstanding IT engineers. He discovered Euvic in Poland and began working with them as a partner on several of Ola’s initiatives. “I wanted to be a member of Euvic based on the culture, ideals, and flat hierarchy”, quoted the visionary leader. Ola and Euvic combined their operations in Sweden in 2017 as a result. He was thrilled to have the chance to work for a business that valued innovation and expansion as much as he did. Although he knew this would be a formidable undertaking, he was ready for it.
Ola had held positions as CEO, CIO, and IT Development Manager before joining Euvic, gaining a lot of expertise and experience that would benefit his new position. Ola played a critical role in Lärarförmedlarna’s digital transformation as the company’s chief information officer, spearheading cloud transformation initiatives, developing excellent architecture, and developing cutting-edge digital goods. Also, he established an outsourcing division that assisted the business in lowering costs and raising the quality of its services.
At SBAB Bank AB, where he served as the acting IT operations manager, he was in charge of overseeing personnel matters, making sure projects were finished on time and under budget, and creating new infrastructure designs that would boost productivity.
Ola also served as the CEO of Knowit Cloud Innovation in Stockholm, which specialized in assisting companies in leveraging cloud services to boost creativity and efficiency. Ola was the Chief IT Architect and Infrastructure Manager at HL Display AB, where he was entrusted with transferring all of the company’s IT to the cloud and coming up with creative ways to satisfy the company’s global needs while keeping costs to a minimum. As Easypark’s CIO and IT Manager, he oversaw a team that completely rebuilt the IT infrastructure, deploying an open-source SOA platform based on SpringSource, Open MQ, PostgreSQL, and Google Apps as a collaboration tool. Ola joined Euvic as a Business Development and Partner in 2018 and is now in charge of Scandinavia and the company’s connection with AWS. He helped the company grow tremendously and develop values for the customers. Ola’s dedication and hard work paid off, and in 2021 he was promoted to Chief Executive Officer of Euvic in the United Arab Emirates.
Ola’s responsibilities as CEO included overseeing the business operations in the United Arab Emirates and making sure they maintained a high level of customer service. He put in place fresh tactics and procedures that raised output and revenue for the business. His selection as the Vice President of International Business in 2022 was the result of his achievement in the CEO position in the United Arab Emirates.
Euvic: Making Businesses More Efficient and Effective
A healthy workplace is the key to unlocking the full potential of a team!
A leading IT service provider in Poland, Euvic, can assist you in increasing the cost-effectiveness and agility of your company. It helps customers with their current IT infrastructure and helps them locate areas where cost savings can be made, like through server consolidation, cloud adoption, or digitalization. Additionally, EUVIC may cooperate with the customer to put in place workflows and business processes that are more effective, which can simplify operations and lower expenses. This can entail implementing new software tools or automating routine processes. When it comes to agility, EUVIC could assist the customer in implementing more adaptable IT systems that can swiftly change to meet evolving business needs and introduce innovations.
Euvic’s Key Focus: A Happy and Healthy Work Environment
A healthy workplace is the key to unlocking the full potential of a team! Euvic is a team of enthusiastic professionals who are passionate about various initiatives such as sports, education, and sociocultural events. The leadership team at Euvic exemplifies a small business culture that places a strong emphasis on employee and customer connections and has values that go beyond business. They work to foster a climate of cooperation and trust in which everyone feels free to express their ideas and opinions. Additionally, they provide the staff with the materials and tools they need to develop their talents and keep up with the most recent trends.
The Revolutionary Impact of COVID on Euvic
The COVID-19 epidemic has accelerated digitization and increased the significance of e-commerce, leading Euvic Group to decide to broaden its services by launching a new business pillar called Commerce Transformation. With this addition, Euvic will be able to increase the scope of services it offers by supplying solutions and providing advice for digital transformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it more difficult for hospitals both big and small, public and private to keep doctors and nurses on staff. One of Euvic’s supported start-ups, Medishift, has developed a solution to improve the current situation.
Future Plans at a Glance
While spearheading his company’s victorious path, Euvic has plans to broaden its clientele and market share in current international markets as well as look into ways to enter new ones through the creation of new alliances and collaborations, the introduction of brand-new goods or services designed for particular markets, or the enhancement of customer support to boost client loyalty. Additionally, he wants to increase revenue, set growth goals for the next five years, create plans to hit those goals, and promote an innovative culture within the company.
Ola sets personal goals around continuous learning and self improvement. This may involve pursuing further education or certifications and attending industry conferences and events. In order to provide the team with the drive and concentration they need to thrive in their jobs, he also places a high priority on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. He also places a high priority on his own leadership growth, actively seeking out opportunities for coaching or mentoring.
Words of Wisdom from an Industry Veteran, Ola Hesselroth
- Surround yourself with a talented team that shares your vision and values. Look for individuals with complementary skills, experience, and perspectives who can help you bring your vision to life.
- Make customer satisfaction a top priority in all aspects of your business.
- The best businesses are built around solving a real problem or meeting a genuine need. Start by identifying a problem that you are passionate about solving and that has market demand.
- The business world is constantly changing, and it’s important to be adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in your industry to ensure you are providing cutting edge solutions and remaining competitive.
- Conduct thorough research on your target market and competitors to understand their needs, preferences, and pain points. This will help you develop a unique value proposition and differentiate yourself from the competition.
- A well-thought-out business plan is essential for any new venture. It should include a detailed description of your business, a market analysis, marketing, etc.
Hisham Hammoud: Leading the Way to Economic Success
Backed by an eminent and respected group of shareholders, Aafaq Islamic Finance was established in 2006 to provide innovative Islamic financial services and products that comply with Islamic Sharia across the UAE and the Region. Headed by its CEO, Hisham Hammoud, Aafaq stands on the list of many prominent financial organizations delivering high-quality financial services for a wide range of institutions.
Hisham is a business leader and a banking professional with over two decades of experience in business execution strategies, consumer banking, investment and wealth management, treasury and capital markets, operations, technology, risk management, business process re-engineering, profit, and cost optimization.
Over the years, Hisham has worked in Senior Executive roles across organizations like Citi Bank, Dubai Bank, Dubai Tadawul Brokerage, Dubai Resources, Al Tagdeer Company, Bank Islami Pakistan Limited, Network International Group, and Ajman Bank.
Hisham also holds a Risk Management and Advanced Leadership Skills certification from the state-of-the-art International Leadership Programs in the US, EMEA & AP regions. Besides that, he has an in-depth understanding of auditing and the associated regulatory issues in both local & global banks.
As the Group Chief Executive Officer at Aafaq Islamic Finance, Hisham drives the group strategy to maximize shareholder value and achieve market-leading business growth while building customer relationships and loyalty. Hisham’s relentless ambition and energy have driven him to achieve and exceed targets, goals and attain objectives.
A Key Player in the Financial Services Industry
With a proven track record of delivering innovative and Shariah-compliant financial solutions to its customers, Aafaq Islamic Finance has established itself as a strong player in the UAE.
Aafaq Islamic Finance recognizes that today’s youth are the leaders of tomorrow, and it is committed to empowering them through its products and services. By providing exceptional financial education and support, Aafaq aims to help the younger generation achieve their goals and contribute to the growth and development of the UAE.
On the other hand, SMEs play a crucial role in UAE’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and economic growth. However, these SMEs often struggle to access financing due to their size and lack of collateral. So, by supporting SMEs, Aafaq Islamic Finance aligns with the UAE government’s effort to promote economic growth and diversification through supporting small businesses.
“We are also exploring new market segments traditionally underserved by the financial industry. Through our innovative solutions, we aim to bring financial inclusion to these segments and help them realize their full potential,”- explains Hisham. “Digital transformation and innovation are also key elements of our new vision. We recognize that the world is changing rapidly, and we must adapt and evolve to stay ahead of the curve. By embracing technology and innovation, we aim to transform how financial services are delivered and revolutionize the industry.”
Due to its commitment to innovation, Aafaq Islamic Finance strongly focuses on AI and its potential to transform the financial services industry. Through its investment in digitalization, Aafaq Islamic Finance aims to offer its customers personalized and intelligent financial solutions. The organization’s digitalpowered solutions will better understand its customers’ needs and preferences and tailor its products and services accordingly.
Hisham and his team at Aafaq Islamic Finance also believe it can help the organization improve its risk management and compliance process, leading to a more secure and transparent financial system.
Creating a Diversified and Sustainable Economy
Being a leading Islamic financial institution, Aafaq is extremely proud to contribute to the UAE’s efforts to create a diversified and sustainable economy. The organization’s initiatives are aligned with the UAE’s vision of promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion, and it is committed to supporting the government’s efforts in achieving these objectives.
Through its products, partnerships, and services, Aafaq aims to support UAE’s vision of becoming a hub for innovation, a leader in sustainability, and a model for economic growth and development.
With the contribution of Aafaq’s customers, employees, and partners, Hisham is hugely excited about the organization’s new vision and looks forward to working together to create a better future for all.
“Our focus on digitalization is key to our new vision and initiatives. We are excited about the potential of this technology to revolutionize the financial services industry, and we are committed to being at the forefront of this transformation,” – states Hisham.
A Leading Provider of Islamic Financial Services
Founded with the goal of providing innovative and customer-focused financial solutions in accordance with the principles of Islamic finance, Dubai-based Aafaq Islamic Finance is now a leading provider of Islamic financial services.
Some of the products and services offered by Aafaq Islamic Finance include:
- Corporate finance: Aafaq Islamic Finance provides various corporate finance services, including project and trade financing.
- Retail finance: The company offers a range of retail financial products and services, including personal loans, credit cards, and deposit products.
- Investment deposits: Aafaq Islamic Finance provides Shari’a compliant Wakala investments. On maturity, Corporates can enjoy several renewal options, from rolling over the principal amount & profit to rolling over the principal amount and collecting the profit.
- Corporate guarantees: The company offers several types of corporate guarantees with flexible margin options and simple & fast processing. Aafaq provides the following types of Corporate Guarantees:
-
- Bank Guarantees
- Labor Guarantees
- Establishment Guarantees
- Financial Guarantees
- Bid Bonds
- Advance Guarantees
- Performance Bonds
- Retention and Maintenance Guarantees
Motivating Innovation and Creativity in the Workplace
In today’s dynamic and fiercely competitive business world, the key to success lies in being creative and innovative. Hisham recognizes this fact and is determined to cultivate a culture of creativity and innovation at Aafaq Islamic Finance to keep the organization ahead of the game in the financial industry.
Promoting creativity and innovation in the workplace can also help Aafaq Islamic Finance attract and retain exceptional talent while creating a conducive and positive work environment that inspires employees to generate fresh and inventive ideas constantly. Hisham firmly believes that this is an indispensable aspect of the organization’s success and continues to work towards enhancing it. After all, creativity and innovation are essential for any company striving to excel in today’s competitive landscape.
Tackling the Pandemic
The global financial industry, including Aafaq Islamic Finance, has been greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has resulted in significant economic disruptions, creating various challenges for financial institutions.
To overcome these challenges, Aafaq Islamic Finance, along with other financial institutions, had to adapt its business model to ensure the safety of its employees and customers. This involved adopting digital and remote services, reducing branch operations, and implementing health and safety protocols. Additionally, the company has prioritized supporting its customers during these unprecedented times by providing flexible repayment options, offering financial education and advice, and implementing measures to alleviate the pandemic’s impact on the communities it serves. Despite these challenges, Aafaq Islamic Finance remains committed to providing the highest level of service to its customers while ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees.
The Gender-Pay Gap Challenge
The gender pay gap is a persistent issue that continues to plague societies worldwide, representing a sobering reminder of the disparities that still exist between genders. Despite concerted efforts to promote equality and fairness, women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for the same work, with the gap sometimes widening. This insidious form of discrimination erodes women’s financial independence and reinforces negative gender stereotypes, perpetuating a cycle of inequality that undermines progress and undermines the potential of half the population.
Being an organization committed to empowering and encouraging women, Aafaq Islamic Finance believes the pay disparity can have long-term effects on women’s financial condition.
“Unfortunately, despite advances in equality and anti-discrimination laws, the gender pay gap persists in many countries and industries. Women often earn less than men for doing the same work. This disparity can have long-term effects on women’s financial stability and economic independence,”- explains Hisham. “But one thing is for sure, that we at Aafaq Islamic Finance do not have a gender pay gap, but on the contrary, we always encourage and empower women while we also have an internal equal pay policy set in place to ensure that women working in Aafaq receive equal rights.”
Preparing for a Better Future
As Aafaq Islamic Finance enters 2023, the company has set its sights on enhancing the customer experience, embracing digital transformation, and fostering greater financial inclusion, all while promoting sustainable and responsible investment practices. The year 2022 was dedicated to building a sturdy foundation enabling Aafaq to navigate new challenges and seize emerging opportunities, thereby securing a leading position in the industry.
The 10 Most Successful Business Leaders Making a Difference, 2023
Elena Schildgen: An Iconic Business Woman, Offering Core Legal Solutions at Meyer-Reumann & Partners
Dream big: “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” Walt Disney
When more and more women concentrate on strategic business areas, they motivate other women to shatter the glass ceiling and grow. To ensure that women receive the equal opportunity, career development, and advancement, businesses are attempting to promote and profit from their potential. In the past ten years, there have been a number of incredible female entrepreneurs who are not just transforming their industries but also the globe as a whole. Elena Schildgen, the managing partner of Meyer-Reumann & Partners, is a leader with such biblical qualities.
A highly educated and driven lawyer with over 30 years of experience practising law in the GCC region, the leading lady focuses on Wills & Probate, Family Law, Labor Law, Company Creation and Structuring, as well as managing a successful law firm. Setting her sails in 1995, Elena has played a crucial role in strategically expanding Meyer-Reumann & Partners, ensuring that it is now sized to provide advice on complex corporate legal issues, such as multijurisdictional corporate restructurings like carve-outs and mergers and acquisitions, without sacrificing the level of individualized attention provided by the attorneys working on the cases. She has developed into more than simply a successful businesswoman; she is now a role model for others and a seasoned professional in the field of international law.
Meyer-Reumann & Partners at a Glance
“We are a renowned name in the legal industry for delivering personalized legal assistance!” Elena Schildgen
Meyer-Reumann & Partners is a boutique legal company founded in 1989 that handles the majority of corporate and commercial business law issues. It was created by Mr. Rolf Meyer-Reumann, a maritime law expert who began his career in Saudi Arabia. He spent a few years working there in the 1980s before relocating to Dubai in 1989.
Meyer-Reumann & Partners acts as a legal partner and handles matters on a very individual basis, with the client always having direct access to the lawyer in charge. The firm has a small number of highly skilled and devoted lawyers who respond to the very particular needs of the client.
Clients mainly approach them if they wish to establish a legal entity, and following this, they assist them with all day-to-day legal issues such as the drafting and revision of contracts, handling employment matters, registering IP, and making sure they fulfil all the local compliance regulations. Also, they support private individuals in a variety of family, real estate, inheritance, drafting, and registration related problem.
Elena and her team’s primary focus is to ensure that clients leave their offices smiling, and this is how they measure success. In the future, they intend to diversify their clientele by adding markets like Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar.
Elena’s Begining: Towards a Victorious Endvour
Elena first arrived in Dubai in May 1990. She had initially applied for a position as a law trainee with Mr. Rolf Meyer-Reumann, the firm’s founder, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She received a response from Dubai, where he had moved the office in the interim in September 1989.
Elena applied for the internship because she had a strong interest in international private law, a subject she had always prioritized in her legal training and education because it presents a challenge in determining which law would apply when different nationalities are involved, assets are held in different countries, etc. Elena also applied for the internship because she wanted to learn more about how to become a lawyer. She was assigned a task to complete that involved an international family and inheritance as early as the first week.
From the beginning, Mr. MR and Elena got along well. He even left the office in Elena’s care while she was on an internship in 1990, and when he came back, he offered her the position to come work for him as a lawyer. A few years later, he proposed a partnership to the aspiring lady. Over the years, Mr. MR mentored Elena and also grew to be a close friend. The support that she has received from him at all times later on, including being able to combine business and family, has been amazing and invaluable.
Elena has recently taken on the role of Managing Partner, continuing to manage her own caseload while focusing on Wills & Probate. She also works to strengthen the firm’s footprint throughout the GCC region so that the team is capable of supporting local courts with their Shariah law specialists.
Diversity and Inclusion in the Company
Meyer-Reumann & Partners present a team of 11 legal professionals, where they have 6 different nationalities and 6 women; of the 7 lawyers working for M&P, there are 5 women. The firm can serve customers of all nationalities and religious backgrounds thanks to this. The firm also specializes in inheritance and family law cases where women and children need extra protection and assistance.
Jewels in the Crown
While moving along her path, the magnificent woman has helped several successful firms get started, de-registered an agency in the UAE, which was a difficult process, and won favorable outcomes for her clients in an ICC arbitration.
“I had a terrific team, and everyone was really helpful in guiding the workplace through this trying time. We got closer as a family rather than just as coworkers at the office. We worked hard on our web marketing strategy and visibility, and we established ourselves in the market”, Elena quoted.
Elena’s Take on Woman Leadership in the Male-Dominated Industry
I was able to rise in my legal career far more rapidly as a woman than I would have in Europe since I was given early responsibility for my own clients and cases.
I have always cherished Dubai’s diversity, the worldwide nature of the clientele, my involvement in a wide range of legal issues, and my interactions with people of many racial and ethnic backgrounds.
I was already a member of a group of friends when I first moved to Dubai. We were all lawyers from various nations, including Germany, Lebanon, Russia, South Africa, and Denmark. During that time, women already held in-house legal positions with national and local law companies, as well as owning their own firms. Once more, I think that Dubai’s major advantage is the fact that it offers opportunities in all spheres and industries.
Working as a lawyer, especially in Dubai, presents a challenge but also the chance to participate in what I called a “work in progress.” You are constantly involved in new legislation being introduced, new plans, new developments, and new goals, which gives you the sense that you are advancing the legal system and the community.
Iqra Khan: Creating Unforgettable Experiences, One Event at a Time
Meet Iqra Khan, the CEO of Talkingly, a Dubai-based Event Management company. With a wealth of experience and a passion for creating positive change, Iqra has not only succeeded in building a successful business but has also become an advocate for women’s empowerment. Iqra’s leadership style fosters collaboration and encourages her team members to think outside the box. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and determination to overcome challenges have earned her respect and admiration in the industry. Iqra inspires women worldwide to pursue their dreams and break barriers in their respective fields through her work. She is a true testament to the power of female leadership and a role model for the next generation of women entrepreneurs.
Recently, we had an opportunity to sit down with Iqra and learn how she is changing the world of events with Talkingly.
Below are the highlights of the interview .
Q) Please tell me your story. Or How did you get your start?
Iqra) Thank you for considering Me for such an Amazing ‘magazine! I have been living and making life in Dubai, UAE, since 2015. I started my career here in Marketing with an Events Company and then moved into my own business in 2020, during the Covid times.
I felt that I was stuck in the Corporate world and wanted to start something of my own, through which I could challenge myself and support other young women entrepreneurs in UAE too, and Talkingly began.
Q) Please tell us about Talkingly and how it serves its clients.
Iqra) Talkingly is a Business Events Company that helps the business community and individuals coming to Dubai to learn about the market Norms and Business Terms. We Assist them in Connecting with Right Partners, Colleagues, and Business Aquantices through Events. We also assist our clients in establishing their business in Dubai from scratch through Events.
Q) What distinguishes Talkingly from its competitors?
Iqra) As I said, Talkingly assists New Businesses in Dubai through Events, which is unique. We provide a platform for the clients to join and get the business running through events, which no one else in the marketing is offering for now. We have successfully connected and educated many businesses so far, while many found partners through our network and community.
Q) How do you motivate creativity and innovation in the workspace while maintaining a healthy work environment?
Iqra) Talkingly believes in new ideas and listens to everyone who has something to share regarding business, we always welcome new Collabs that can support both sides, but one thing we make sure of is to execute.
Q) How do you focus on Diversity and Inclusion in your organization for success?
Iqra) Well, Dubai is a very diversified market itself, and it’s not very difficult to bring on multiple nationals to work together, so even in our company, you will find 4-5 different regions’ resources working together; that’s the beauty of UAE. We focus on having the best resources no matter which region or nation they are coming from
Q) Please explain the pandemic’s effect on Talkingly. And how you tackled it?
Iqra) That’s a funny story, during covid when talkingly was started, it was EXPO2020 time, the WORLD BIGGEST Show of Businesses, and luckily Covid was not a problem for us, as Dubai was doing the work of bringing the world together and the business in that time in Dubai was High. Lots of events were happening, and we were able to get good action in that period of time.
Q) What does success look like for you?
Iqra) Success is a never-ending journey. You make and achieve goals, and these small achievements make you successful. Never giving up is success too. I think it’s a journey, and not one thing can confirm that now I am successful cause the meaning of success will keep on changing.
Q) What are your plans for 2023 and beyond?
Iqra) In 2023, we are planning to focus on one-to-one events and big conferences in ‘Business Expansion in Dubai to capture New Businesses.
Q) What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?
Iqra) Teamwork.
Pulling The Crowds- How To Maximize Event Attendance
Business events are the way to go in the competitive landscape. Did you know that 97% of B2B marketers believe in-person events go a long way in achieving business outcomes? But pulling the crowds can be a big challenge.
If you’re planning a business event and want to ensure it’s a smash hit, you’ve got to promote it like there’s no tomorrow. It’s the only way to get people to notice your program in a crowded space, right? And you’ll surely want to max the attendance after putting in a ton of effort to plan everything out.
We’ve got some surefire promotion tips to help you get more attendees flocking than you ever thought possible. Here you go, business owners!
Get Social
Guys, if you aren’t promoting your business event on social media, you’re doing it all wrong. Who doesn’t spend hours scrolling through Facebook or Instagram these days? Missing out on these platforms means you may never reach the crowd.
So leverage them for free promotions by creating eye-catching visuals and compelling posts to create a buzz around your event. And think beyond just posting once and calling it a day. Keep the hype up by sharing repeat updates and behind-the-scenes peeks to keep the excitement on.
Go old school with flyers and posters
Well, you cannot forget the value of good old-fashioned flyers and posters when it comes to event promotions. Of course, online promotion is a popular option these days, but not everyone in your target audience may be a social media enthusiast, right?
Display your banners in high-traffic areas to maximize visibility. And ensure they are eye-catching and have clear messaging.
Ease the registration process
An easy registration process is another way to get more attendees to the venue. People are short of time, and you can’t expect them to struggle with a complicated process to register for your event.
Lucky for you- online signup forms make an ideal solution to reach out to a broader audience without breaking the bank. But remember to keep the forms simple with only the necessary fields. Also, ensure they are mobile responsive so that users can fill them up on the go.
Partner up
Don’t be a lone wolf in your promotion efforts. Collaborating with other businesses and organizations can be a great way to reach more people. Look for companies that complement your business and ask them cross-promote your event.
Try strategies like sharing each other’s social media posts and offering special discounts to each other’s customers. The possibilities are endless when you find the right partners!
Give attendees a reason to be there
People are pressed for time, so they should see a compelling reason to attend your event. Unless they have one, they might skip it altogether. Give them a good reason to be there beyond just making a noise about the program.
Well, there’s a lot you can do, from offering exclusive VIP access, early bird pricing, or a killer swag bag. Get creative and think of ideas to bring in more people.
What Next
So you’re all set to host a crowded business event with these easy tips. But remember, promoting it is only part of the equation. Ensure you’ve also got a great experience to engage and excite tour attendees. Good luck!