1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m originally from Yemen, but I grew up in Abu Dhabi and studied in the UK. My husband is Australian, and we live in Saudi Arabia with our two boys. I’m a human rights lawyer by trait, and I recently founded Al-Multaqa Consultancy, an advisory firm focused on fostering effective intercultural communication and leadership development. Because of my multicultural background, I’m passionate about bridging cultural gaps, particularly in the business world, and advocating for change through understanding and collaboration. My career has led me to work globally, always driven by the desire to bring people together and create sustainable solutions.
2. Can you share a pivotal moment in your life where you defied traditional societal norms and challenged the status quo? What are the values and beliefs you were representing at this moment?
As a human rights lawyer, one pivotal moment was during my work on human trafficking reforms in Australia, specifically advocating for legal changes around forced marriages. This challenged deep-seated cultural norms and legal precedents. I was representing values of justice, equality, and the belief that everyone has the right to autonomy and dignity. By speaking out against an ingrained cultural issue, I was not only defying expectations but also championing the idea that we must advocate for those who are silenced.
3. How do you define being a "rebel" in the context of your industry, and how does Al-Multaqa Consultancy embody this?
Being a rebel, to me, means breaking away from traditional methods of leadership development and cultural management. At Al-Multaqa Consultancy, we focus on nurturing emotional intelligence and cross-cultural understanding, which challenges the industry’s tendency to emphasise technical or operational efficiency over human connection. We defy the norms by placing communication and empathy at the heart of leadership.
4. Operating between Dubai and Riyadh, and traveling the world, you are often "on the road." How do you maintain your skincare regime while you are traveling? What are your go-to products?
Travel can be demanding on my skin, so I prioritise a skincare routine that keeps it hydrated and balanced. I never go without a good cleanser, a hydrating serum, and, most importantly, sunscreen. Clean Rebel’s products have been a game-changer for me, especially their Essence Active Serum. It’s lightweight and keeps my skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated, even after long flights or hectic schedules. I also love their All-In-One Essence Cleanser for its simplicity and effectiveness. Plus, I can’t board a plane without the Essence Toner, which comes in a convenient spray bottle. Just a quick spritz, and my skin feels instantly hydrated and refreshed!
5. What motivated you to adopt a clean beauty lifestyle, and what attracted you to Clean Rebel?
I began adopting a clean beauty lifestyle as I became more aware of the harmful chemicals present in mainstream skincare products. My motivation was driven by both health and environmental concerns, as I wanted to ensure that what I was putting on my skin was safe, effective, and aligned with my values. Clean Rebel caught my attention because of their commitment to sustainability and the use of non-toxic, cruelty-free ingredients. Their transparency in sourcing and formulation really resonated with me.
6. Can you share which Clean Rebel product is your favourite?
It is hard to pick just one, but I would say the Clean Rebel Active Serum is my absolute favourite. It is perfect for my lifestyle, providing deep hydration without feeling heavy, and it is a lifesaver during my frequent travels.
7. What is a myth about clean beauty that you would like to see busted?
One of the biggest myths about clean beauty is that it does not perform as well as conventional products. People often think that to see results, they need harsh chemicals, but that is simply not the case. Clean Rebel is proof that clean beauty can deliver powerful results without compromising on ingredients. Effective skincare can be clean, and it does not need to rely on potentially harmful additives to work.
8. What advice would you give to others aspiring to make a real difference in their industry? And why do you believe that each one of us should express ourselves as the individuals that we are?
My advice is to stay true to your vision, even when others might not immediately see its value. Real change happens when you combine authenticity with perseverance. Expressing your individuality not only helps you differentiate yourself in a crowded marketplace but also encourages others to embrace their uniqueness. It is this authenticity that fosters innovation and creates lasting impact.
9. Anything else you would like to add?
I would just like to remind everyone that making choices, whether in beauty, business, or life should always reflect your values. Clean beauty is not just about what is good for you, but also about what is good for the world. I am proud to support a brand like Clean Rebel that champions sustainability and ethical practices in everything they do.
