1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am Mahra Al Yaqoobi(@mediastone.uae), an Emirati entrepreneur, media consultant, and trainer. My career began as the first Emirati sports presenter on Abu Dhabi TV in 2006, and later I joined Sky News Arabia as a presenter, where I achieved the milestone of launching the Sky News Arabia Academy and served as its Director. Today, I lead Media Stone, a company dedicated to media training, consulting, and personal branding. What drives me is creating platforms where voices are heard, stories are told authentically, and individuals feel empowered to show up with confidence and integrity.
2. Can you share a pivotal moment when you defied traditional societal norms and challenged the status quo?
One pivotal moment was stepping into male-dominated spaces early in my career—particularly in sports media—where few Emirati women were visible. I learned to let my presence and work speak louder than any stereotype. What I represented in that moment was quiet confidence, respect for tradition, and the belief that ambition and identity can coexist without compromise.
3. How do you define being a "rebel" in the context of your industry, and how does your business embody this?
For me, being a rebel isn’t about confrontation but creating new paths where none exist. Media and training mean breaking away from outdated methods and introducing bold, authentic, and innovative approaches. Media Stone embodies this by tailoring every service to the individual’s voice, instead of forcing people into rigid, one-size-fits-all molds.
4. As a busy professional, you probably spend a lot of time going from meeting to meeting and traveling. How do you maintain your skincare routine on the go and what are your go-to products?
Consistency is key. I keep my routine simple yet effective so I can stick to it while traveling. Hydration is my number one rule—whether through a nourishing moisturizer or a clean serum. I also never skip sunscreen. On hectic days, a refreshing face mist is my go-to for feeling awake and polished between meetings.
5. What motivated you to adopt a clean beauty lifestyle, and what attracted you to Clean Rebel?
I’ve always believed that what we put on our skin should be as thoughtful as what we put into our bodies. The shift to clean beauty was about respecting myself and my health. What drew me to Clean Rebel is their philosophy of purposeful rebellion—challenging an industry often filled with toxins, and instead creating safe, sustainable, and empowering beauty.
6. Can you share which Clean Rebel product is your favourite?
I love the Essence Cleanser and Essence Face Oil because they’re practical for my busy lifestyle and give me a sense of self-care wherever I am. It feels like a small ritual that keeps me grounded.
7. What is a myth about clean beauty that you would like to see busted?
That clean beauty is less effective than conventional products. On the contrary, I’ve found that clean products respect the skin’s natural balance, leading to healthier long-term results rather than short-term fixes.
8. What advice would you give to others aspiring to make a real difference in their industry?
My advice: stay authentic, even when the easier road is imitation. Actual impact comes from embracing your individuality and values, not blending in. Each of us carries a unique perspective, and when we express it unapologetically, we push our industries forward.
9. Anything else you would like to add?
Emirati Women’s Day reminds me that identity is strength. To the next generation of women: don’t wait for permission to step forward. Write your own story, and let your success be your voice and legacy.
