In a region where innovation, resilience, and leadership are reshaping industries, the Clean Middle East Women’s Power List 2026 celebrates the remarkable women driving excellence in cleaning, hygiene, facilities management, and environmental solutions. These leaders are not just breaking barriers—they are setting new standards, redefining professionalism, and inspiring transformative change across the Middle East. 

From visionary executives and technical experts to pioneers of sustainability and advocates for inclusion, the women featured on this list exemplify strength, integrity, and impact. Their contributions elevate industry performance, influence policy and perception, and create healthier, safer spaces for communities and businesses alike. 

As we highlight these exceptional achievers (in alphabetical order), we honour both their individual accomplishments and their collective power to shape the future of the sector. The Women’s Power List 2026 is more than a recognition—it’s a testament to leadership that inspires others to rise, lead, and make lasting impact. 

Aishwarya Ranjith, Head of Marketing, Berkeley Services 

Your Journey 

My journey into the Facilities Management industry was not conventional. Early experiences in operations quickly evolved into a deeper understanding of how infrastructure, people, and purpose intersect. Over time, stepping into leadership roles allowed me to shape narratives, strengthen positioning, and contribute strategically to business growth. What has kept me motivated is the opportunity to modernize perception, showing that FM is not just operational, but intelligent, tech-driven, and impact oriented. 

Defining Moments 
One of the proudest milestones has been contributing to initiatives that created measurable impact and helped shape the organization’s growth and direction. It has been rewarding to see strategies translate into tangible outcomes that strengthen both teams and business objectives. The most defining experiences came from participating in leadership discussions early in my career, where perspective, preparation, and clarity mattered. Those moments shaped a leadership approach rooted in confidence, composure, and strategic thinking, focused on driving sustainable progress and fostering positive change. 

Paying It Forward 

To young women entering this industry, step forward with confidence and clarity of purpose. Do not wait for permission to contribute. Preparation, consistency, and integrity will always build lasting credibility. I strongly believe growth multiplies when shared. I actively champion other women by creating opportunities for visibility, encouraging ownership of projects, and fostering a culture where ideas are heard and potential is nurtured. Empowerment is not a statement, it is a practice, beginning with ensuring that every capable voice has the space to rise. 

Akshi Singh, Cluster Director of Housekeeping, IHG Kuwait 

Your Journey 

In today’s dynamic landscape of business, I have been orchestrating housekeeping operations with a strategic vision and a hands-on approach. Growing up as a daughter of an Army Officer, my journey started at a renowned Catering College at Mumbai and later becoming a devoted mother of two adorable children. Stepping into the world of Hospitality I discovered the power of ambition and perseverance unfolding with it a series of pivotal chapters each marked by Triumphs and Challenges. My journey was not limited to domestic shores - I ventured into key roles in Hotels of Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka and the Gulf. With over Three decades of experience across 11 esteemed hotels of Oberois / Hyatt and IHG Hotels. 

Defining Moments 

At the heart of my leadership is a profound understanding of people’s needs, coupled with an innate ability to exceed expectations. Today I stand as a testament to the unwavering belief that dreams, fueled by purposeful goals – can indeed become reality. Recipient of multiple Awards – today I Lead one of the biggest and best housekeeping teams in the region- Revolutionizing and Revitalizing with my signature OUT OF BOX thinking. My role demands a unique blend of leadership, operational acumen, and the ability to foster a culture of excellence. with very precise focus on a commitment to empathy, excellence, and tailored experiences.  

Paying it Forward 
In the high-pressure world of Hospitality, burnout is endemic! More so of Women who multi task personally and professionally. To all women I say - My Story is a living testament to the indomitable spirit of women leaders, a reminder that with courage, grit , resilience and unwavering determination – no dream is beyond reach. 

 Alaa Al Boali, Executive Director, MEFMA 
Your journey 
Fourteen years in FM industry have shaped not only my career, but also my perspective on leadership and impact. What began as a transition from a different field quickly became a purposeful journey. Over time, I recognized the true value of this industry: it shapes the spaces where people work, learn, and live. Being part of a sector that directly influences quality, safety, and sustainability has been both motivating and rewarding. 

As Executive Director, I see my role as more than oversight. It is about setting direction, encouraging innovation, and ensuring that our industry continues to evolve. I believe leadership is about clarity, consistency, and empowering others to perform at their best. Bringing people together and turning shared ideas into action remains central to how I lead. 

Defining Moments 

The most meaningful moments in my career were the times when others depended on my guidance. Making challenging decisions, supporting my team through uncertainty, and staying calm during change shaped me as a leader. Those experiences reminded me that leadership is less about position and more about trust, responsibility, and being present for people when it truly matters. What makes those moments meaningful is seeing the difference they made over time individuals gaining confidence, teams working more closely together, and an industry that continues to grow stronger and more valued. 

Paying It Forward

To young women aspiring to join this industry, I would say embrace continuous learning, build confidence in your expertise, and never underestimate the value you bring. I support the growth of women by mentoring, sharing experience, and helping create opportunities where their voices can be heard and their leadership potential can grow. 

Alexandra Goman, Training Project Manager, ISSA Pulire 

Your journey 
I entered this sector almost by chance. After moving from a smaller town to Milan, a fast‑paced corporate city, I was simply looking for a new direction. A role focused on growing education across EMEA became an unexpected bridge between my academic background and the global business world, where my curiosity and intercultural mindset could thrive. Over time, I discovered how deeply this industry is tied to public health, safe and clean environments, and sustainability. These are themes I now actively advocate for on international stages, expanding conversations that matter for communities everywhere. 

Defining Moments 

One of the achievements I value most has been building meaningful relationships in regions where our organisation had little presence, such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Becoming a trusted voice in markets where I initially had no visibility has shaped me profoundly. I learned that influence is built not by speaking the loudest, but by listening deeply, connecting the right people, and turning global challenges into shared ambitions. It still feels surreal when professionals across continents reach out for guidance after hearing me speak — a reminder that leadership often begins the moment you translate complex issues into something clear, relevant, and actionable for others. 

Paying it Forward 

To young women, I say: be consistent, trust your intuition, and take up space even when the room wasn’t built for you. I support women by mentoring, amplifying their ideas, and creating environments where they are seen, respected, and encouraged to lead. 

Andrea Yoko, Director, Yoko Excellence Solutions 

Your Journey 

Too short to join the police force, I spent two years at a hotel school, where I discovered I don’t like cooking, which led me into Housekeeping. I arrived in 1987 as an Executive Housekeeper. A directional career change after a career break led me to move into FM in 2007. I have worked for a total of 19 years in hospitality and 18 years in FM. 

Defining Moments 

I would say, the creation of the original Centre of Excellence training centre back in 2007, which has been emulated across the UAE has been a defining moment. 

Paying It Forward 

I strongly believe that it is not where you start but where you finish. I genuinely care about growth pathways, succession planning, and elevating frontline teams, and I have seen countless wonderful success stories. Leading with discipline and heart, combining operational rigour with long-term industry impact. 

Doing it yourself is not leadership. The instinct to fix everything yourself creates dependency, not strength. Leadership isn’t about authority. It’s about holding standards, protecting people, and delivering outcomes, even when it’s uncomfortable. You learn it in moments you get it wrong and choose to improve. 

Carla Beaino, Head of Soft Facilities Management, Cenomi Centers’ Home Office U Walk 

Your Journey 

My path into facilities management grew from luxury hospitality, where premium properties and pre-opening projects taught me that excellence is designed and intentional. Building systems from the ground up sharpened my ability to align teams and deliver under pressure. Transitioning into soft FM allowed me to bring that mindset into Saudi Arabia’s fast-evolving landscape, focusing on structured operations, accountability, and consistently high service standards. 

Defining Moments 

Looking back, my proudest achievement was establishing clear structure and performance standards in complex operations. Facing high-pressure challenges strengthened my resilience and shaped my ability to lead with confidence, make accountable decisions, and ensure teams delivered results even in demanding circumstances. 

Paying It Forward 

I actively mentor and challenge young women to aim higher, sharing practical insights and opportunities that help them lead with confidence. I create spaces where talent is recognized, ambition is supported, and achievements speak for themselves. Watching women step into leadership, exceed expectations, and reshape the industry is the most powerful reward of my work. 

Dhanya Rathish, Division Manager, Intercare 

Your Journey 

My entry into the cleaning and hygiene industry in 2016 was unplanned, but it quickly became purposeful once I recognized the sector’s responsibility—especially in the UAE, where hygiene standards set national benchmarks. 

I began on the frontlines, selling cleaning solutions and learning customer expectations firsthand. That experience shaped my growth, and today I lead the manufacturing division, developing backward-integrated, performance-driven products that are safe and sustainable. Alongside our B2B portfolio, we’ve expanded into private label manufacturing, widening our market reach. 

What drives me is impact. Ethical practices, consistent quality, and reliability build trust. Every eco-conscious solution we deliver contributes to healthier spaces and a more responsible future. 

Defining Moments 

My proudest achievement is sustaining performance while upholding environmental responsibility. Balancing cost and quality is constant pressure, but measurable consistency has earned customer trust. 

Coming from a non-technical background, leading manufacturing required deliberate learning and collaboration. I invested in technical understanding and built strong teams. Leadership, I’ve learned, is about clarity, purpose, and fostering ownership—not micromanagement. 

Paying It Forward 
To young women: approach this industry with curiosity and discipline. Credibility comes from competence and consistency. 

I actively promote female representation, mentorship, and leadership opportunities—because progress happens when we intentionally open doors for one another. 

Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director - HITEK 

Your Journey 

My journey into FM was not conventional — it was transformational. Coming from a technology background, I entered the facilities management sector determined to challenge traditional operating models. At Farnek, I led enterprise-wide ERP and CAFM transformations that repositioned FM from reactive service delivery to data-led strategic management. Recognising the growing convergence of AI and built environments, I went on to establish HITEK AI — a dedicated smart FM technology arm focused on AI governance, predictive analytics, IoT integration, and intelligent automation. What drives me is redefining how the industry thinks — proving that FM can be innovative, measurable, and future-ready. 

Defining Moments 

Launching HITEK AI as a regional leader in digital FM transformation stands as a defining milestone, alongside achieving ISO 42001 certification for AI governance — reinforcing our commitment to responsible innovation. Scaling digital change across complex organisations tested my resilience, sharpened my leadership, and strengthened my ability to align people, process, and technology. 

Paying It Forward 

My advice to young women: step confidently into technology and leadership spaces. Own your ambition and master technology. I actively mentor future leaders, champion women in AI and digital roles, and ensure women are not just present in boardrooms — but shaping decisions and driving transformation. 

Leelavathi Nannuru, Director of Housekeeping, Marriott 

Your Journey  

My career in housekeeping began in 2003 at Le Méridien Sankey Road in India and has grown into more than 22 years of progressive leadership across luxury hotels in the UAE, including Le Royal Méridien, Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Grosvenor House Dubai, and Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Aloft and Element Hotels Almina and Airport. 

What started as a frontline path evolved into a calling: protecting guest trust, well-being, and brand reputation through uncompromising standards, smart systems, and a team-first mindset. 

Defining Moments  

My proudest achievement is leading Le Meridien Dubai Housekeeping and laundry operations  while delivering tangible results, including a 14% lift in cleanliness audit scores, and a 15% improvement in retention. 

High-occupancy peaks, major conferences, VIP delegations, and renovations have shaped me into a calm, standards-first leader who never compromises on quality for speed. 

Paying It Forward  

My advice to young women is to master the fundamentals, learn the numbers, and speak with confidence, as this industry rewards consistency and discipline. Championing growth through career-pathing (boosting internal promotions by 27%), cross-training, daily micro-briefings, and recognition that makes every colleague feel seen and valued. 

Mania Kia, Founder and CEO, SaveFast Training Academy 

Your Journey

My journey into the cleaning and facilities management industry evolved naturally from my passion for training and human development. As Founder and CEO of one of the region’s leading training providers, I recognised that cleaning operatives—often the backbone of our built environment—were underserved in structured skills development. This led me to partner with BICSc, and since then, we have qualified over 6,485 professionals in License to Practice and specialist skills.  

Defining Moments 

One of my proudest achievements is seeing trainees secure meaningful employment after completing our programs. Being recognised with an international BICSc award for regional impact and the SACWFM Women Icon of the Year award affirmed that our work is creating tangible change. The greatest challenge has been shifting perceptions—positioning cleaning and hygiene as a skilled profession deserving recognition and investment. 

Paying It Forward 

My advice to young women is simple: pursue knowledge relentlessly and build expertise with purpose. Passion, resilience, and continuous learning create lasting impact. I actively champion women’s growth through training initiatives and government collaborations, ensuring more women enter and lead within this vital industry. 

Nidhi Raj, Rooms Division Manager, Shaza Hotels 

Your journey 

My journey in hospitality is not merely a professional progression — it is a story of resilience, conviction, and redefining leadership in an industry that was once predominantly male-led. I began my journey with Marriott International more than 22 years ago — at a time when women in operational leadership roles were rare. It was an environment where authority was often equated with masculinity, and proving competence required persistence. 

The Defining Moment 

A pivotal moment in my career came when I was appointed to lead a team that was not accustomed to reporting to a woman. There was hesitation. There was resistance. There were unspoken doubts. 

Instead of confronting ego with ego, I chose performance as my language. 

I focused on operational excellence. I strengthened hygiene audits, streamlined procedures, and improved service scores. I stood firm in my decisions while remaining fair and consistent. Gradually, skepticism transformed into trust. 

That phase taught me one of my most important leadership lessons: authority is not demanded — it is demonstrated through competence, composure, and consistency. 

Paying It Forward 

True leadership is measured not by position, but by impact. 

As I advanced in my career, I made a conscious commitment to support the growth of other women around me. I mentor young associates, particularly in Housekeeping and Front Office, encouraging them to see beyond their current roles. 

I ensure they are: 

• Given visibility in meetings
• Encouraged to present ideas confidently
• Nominated for cross-training opportunities
• Prepared for supervisory and managerial responsibilities

Pallavi Patil, Project Manager - Facility Service Business , ACCIONA  

Your Journey 

My journey wasn't planned; it was an evolution from hospitality, where I first learned that protecting a space is the ultimate form of care. While the industries differ, I embraced this path because I realized my instinct for service could thrive within the complex, vital world of facilities management. I’m motivated by human connection, earning a client’s trust and leading a dedicated team who serve as the architects of safety for the environments where people live and work. 

Defining Moments 

Reflecting on my journey as a Project Manager at ACCIONA, my proudest achievement is maintaining a 98% client satisfaction rate, a testament to the trust we’ve built. This success is rooted in fostering internal growth, ensuring my team evolves alongside the business. While receiving the “Woman Executive of the Year award” by Innovation in Facilities Management was a profound honor, my growth was truly forged in the balance of technical precision and empathy. The real challenge, and, my greatest lesson has been, harmonizing operational efficiency with the diverse human needs of those who inhabit our spaces. 

Paying It Forward 

Be bold, stay curious, and never underestimate the value of your unique perspective. Technical skills are essential, but resilience and emotional intelligence are the true drivers of impactful leadership in this field. 

Pamini Hemaprabha, International Hospitality Consultant 

Your Journey 

My journey into the cleaning and facilities management industry was somewhat unexpected. Having worked in more than 10 countries over a span of 23 years is a humbling experience. Being rewarded with more than 12 international accolades, part of podcast series, articles, panel discussions, etc. have contributed to my growth tremendously.  

Initially, I pursued a career in Catering and Hotel Management, but I discovered my passion for creating clean and sustainable environments while volunteering for a local organization. This experience ignited my commitment to improving hygiene standards and promoting sustainability in our industry.  

Defining Moments 

One of my proudest achievements has been launching books and sharing them with community initiative to train underprivileged women in cleaning and hygiene practices, which not only empowered them but also improved local health standards. The challenges I've faced, particularly in breaking through gender biases in leadership roles, have been pivotal in shaping my approach. 

Paying It Forward 

To young women aspiring to enter this industry, I would advise them to embrace every learning opportunity and seek mentorship. Building a supportive network is crucial. Personally, I champion growth by mentoring young professionals, sharing resources, and promoting initiatives that uplift women in our field. 

Rekha Harikumar, Chief Operating Officer 

Your Journey 

My journey into Facilities Management was unplanned but transformative. With degrees in law and science, I arrived in the UAE unaware that a role in an Engineering Office’s FM department would define my career. Guided by strong mentors, what began as coincidence became purpose. 

FM drew me in for its complexity—where contracts meet operations and strategy meets execution. I thrived in managing multidisciplinary teams, driving technical analysis, and ensuring operational accountability and profit margins. Over two decades, my path evolved from operations to senior leadership, culminating in my role as Chief Operating Officer. 

What keeps me motivated is collective achievement. FM is built on teamwork, trust, and shared responsibility. Watching teams grow, take ownership, and succeed has been my greatest reward. For me, FM is more than an industry—it shapes environments and safeguards experiences. My journey has been about impact, not titles, and that continues to inspire me. 

Defining Moments 

My proudest achievement is earning trust—from teams, clients, and vendors. In operations-heavy environments, women often face a “silent credibility test,” where competence is scrutinized longer. My response has been visible competence and consistency. Data-driven decisions and predictable outcomes build credibility over time. 

Leadership is forged in adversity. Like iron refined by heat and pressure, challenges strengthen resilience, strip away ego, and shape true leaders. 

Paying It Forward 
To young women: be fearless, prepared, and capability-focused. Technical expertise, accountability, and adaptability will set you apart. I champion women by offering opportunities based on merit, mentoring actively, and encouraging visibility in critical projects. I promote cultures where women can experiment, learn, and lead confidently. 

Develop agency—seek knowledge, build networks, and embrace challenges. Leadership is about cultivating credibility and resilience while uplifting others. 

Salome Joubert, Head Of Soft Services - Farnek 

Your Journey 

My journey into the Facilities Management industry was not a carefully mapped decision, it evolved organically from my foundation in hospitality. Early in my career, I was drawn to the discipline behind service excellence — the structure, precision, and people leadership that transform operations into exceptional experiences. Over the past 15+ years, I have progressed from operational roles to senior leadership, opening four 5-star residential hotels within three years and mobilising large-scale, high-footfall theme parks in the UAE — environments where operational excellence is non-negotiable and performance is visible at every level. 

Today, as a leader in Soft Services, I remain deeply motivated by the opportunity to build resilient, high-performing teams, introduce innovation, and reposition cleaning and FM as strategic drivers of safety, brand reputation, and customer satisfaction. For me, leadership in FM is not just about maintaining standards — it is about shaping environments where people thrive and businesses succeed.  

Defining Moments 

My proudest achievements has been leading large-scale mobilisations and transforming underperforming operations into structured, profitable, and client-trusted portfolios. These experiences, built on the same foundation of operational discipline that shaped my early career, have reinforced my belief that Soft Services is both a science and a leadership craft. Navigating workforce diversity, operational complexity, and margin protection has strengthened my resilience and refined my strategic approach to decision-making. 

Paying It Forward 

To young women entering this industry: own your space, master the operational details, and never underestimate your influence. Technical competence builds credibility, but confidence builds presence. I am committed to fostering inclusive teams, advocating for equitable growth opportunities, and creating environments where women feel empowered to step confidently into leadership roles within Facilities Management. 

Sam Emery, CFO, Emrill 

Your Journey 

My journey into facilities management evolved rather than being planned. I began my career in telecommunications, but I was drawn to FM because of its direct impact on the built environment and the communities it supports. The opportunity to contribute to sustainable, well-managed environments that improve quality of life has remained a strong source of motivation. 

Defining Moments 

One of my proudest achievements has been strengthening Emrill’s financial stability while supporting a people-first leadership culture. Building resilience in a traditionally male-dominated sector required confidence and conviction. Rather than seeing challenges as barriers, I viewed them as opportunities to demonstrate capability and lead by example. 

Paying It Forward 

To young women entering this industry, my advice is simple: believe in your ability and speak up. Confidence, collaboration and continuous learning are essential. I actively champion the growth of women by maintaining visibility across the business, supporting mentorship and reinforcing that leadership in FM is defined by performance and integrity, not gender. 

Sarika Saluja, General Manager, World Toilet Organization 

Your journey

My journey is focused on amplifying the voices of underserved communities, especially women and children. In 2013, after my son Vedaant was born in Singapore, our trips to India often ended with him falling sick from diarrhoea. Witnessing the harsh reality of countless children suffering and dying from preventable diarrhoeal diseases due to contaminated water and poor hygiene shook me deeply. Around that time, I met Jack, the Founder of the World Toilet Organisation, who inspired me with his passion for sanitation and public health. Joining the WTO became a calling, allowing me to combine my skills and personal experiences to create a meaningful impact for vulnerable communities. 

Defining Moments 

I established the World Toilet College first in Singapore and then in India in partnership with Reckitt Benckiser. We’ve trained and certified over 150,000 cleaners, professionalising the sanitation workforce and strengthening public health outcomes while providing sustainable livelihoods and dignity. This journey has been both challenging and deeply rewarding for me as a leader.  

Paying It Forward 

I encourage young women to invest in their skills. Continuous improvement opens doors you might never expect. Seek mentors who can guide you, and it shortens the learning curve and builds confidence during challenging times. I actively support other women by creating opportunities and encouraging them to embrace leadership roles. Let’s honour the women who paved the way for us, as it’s our duty to carry their legacy forward. 

Shifa Shaji, Area Supervisor, FMM 

Your Journey 

My journey into the cleaning and Facilities Management industry was not something I originally planned, it happened unexpectedly. However, what started as just a job soon became a meaningful career path. Once I entered the field, I realized how critical cleaning, hygiene, and FM operations are to safety, health, and overall customer experience. It is an industry that works quietly behind the scenes, but its impact is visible everywhere. 

Over time, I developed a strong interest in understanding operations, standards, safety protocols, and team coordination. I saw how maintaining high hygiene standards directly contributes to public health and organizational reputation. What continues to motivate me is the sense of achievement when operations run smoothly, when challenges are solved quickly, and when my team performs with dedication and pride.  

Defining Moments  

As an FM Soft Services Leader, one of the achievements I am proudest of is successfully improving service standards and operational compliance across multiple locations while maintaining strong team morale. Leading cleaning and hygiene operations in a high-demand environment requires constant coordination, follow-up on work orders, KPI monitoring, and ensuring client satisfaction. The challenges that shaped me most as a leader. 

Paying It Forward   

To young women entering this field, my advice is to believe in your capability even before others do and never stop learning. It is also important to maintain professionalism, integrity, and resilience. To support the growth of other women around me, I believe in sharing knowledge openly and mentoring whenever possible. When one woman succeeds, it inspires many others to rise. 

Silke Scheel Joypaul, Senior Manager – Performance Management Cleaning Services- Dubai Airports 

Your journey 

My journey into cleaning and facilities management evolved naturally from my hospitality background. With a professional diploma in Housekeeping and Facility Management from Germany and more than 35 years’ experience across hospitality, healthcare and aviation, I quickly recognised that soft services are not simply operational functions – they are central to the guest experience. Today, as Senior Manager Cleaning Services at Dubai Airports, I oversee complex, performance-based contracts in one of the world’s busiest airport environments. I thrive in multicultural teams and genuinely enjoy the challenge of delivering excellence in fast-paced, high-profile settings.  

Defining Moments 

Relocating from Europe to the Middle East was a defining chapter in my career. Working within a more male-dominated environment tested my resilience and strengthened my leadership approach. By leading from the front, relying on strong technical knowledge and communicating openly, I earned trust and built strong professional relationships.  

Paying It Forward 

My advice to young women is to master the fundamentals, remain open to learning and not shy away from challenges. Growth often lies outside your comfort zone. I actively mentor and encourage women in my teams to take ownership, speak up, and pursue leadership with confidence. 

Sushma Dahal, Executive Housekeeper at Anantara al Jabal al Akhdar 

Your Journey 

My journey into the cleaning industry began unexpectedly as an entry-level team member, learning the fundamentals of cleanliness, hygiene, and organization. What started as a job quickly became a passion as I saw the impact a clean, well-managed environment has on people’s comfort and well-being. Over time, I took on new responsibilities, developed leadership skills, and found satisfaction in mentoring a team toward excellence. The pursuit of high standards and the chance to make a tangible difference have kept me motivated throughout my career. 

Defining Moments 

Among my proudest achievements is leading a diverse team while consistently achieving high guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. I introduced improved Standard Operating Procedures, optimized costs, and mentored supervisors into leadership roles—milestones that shaped my professional journey. Managing large-scale operations while meeting strict brand standards was challenging, but it taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of empowering my team. Each challenge has made me a leader who values precision, empathy, and team growth. 

Paying It Forward 

I would say: embrace every role, no matter how small it seems, and never underestimate the value of learning from every experience. Build your skills, observe, ask questions, and be persistent — growth comes to those who are committed and proactive. I believe that when women support each other and share knowledge, we not only uplift individual careers but also elevate the industry as a whole. 

Tabrikah Mohammed, Founder and Chairperson of Emirates Infection Prevention & Sterilization Society 

Your journey 

My path into infection prevention evolved organically from clinical nursing into a specialized leadership role. With a BSN and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, I became certified in infection control (CIC) and healthcare quality (CPHQ), and today serve as Senior Infection Control Officer at the National Rehabilitation Centre in Abu Dhabi. I founded the Emirates Infection Prevention and Sterilization Society (EIPSS) under the Emirates Nursing Association to advance IPC practice in the UAE, and I lead the IPQ Academy to train professionals. Additionally, I am Co-Founder and Head of the Scientific Committee at MENA FHSS, where I help shape regional standards in hospital sterilization sciences. My motivation comes from protecting patients and elevating care through evidence-based practice and education.  

Defining Moments 

Proudest achievements include launching EIPSS and contributing to MENA FHSS’s mission to standardize sterilization and IPC practices across the Middle East and North Africa. Serving on Infection Control Today’s Editorial Advisory Board and earning recognition such as FAPIC have shaped my leadership through resilience, collaboration, and a commitment to quality.  

Paying It Forward 

To young women in this industry: pursue excellence through continuous learning, seek mentorship, and step into leadership boldly. I champion women by mentoring, advocating for inclusive forums, and creating spaces that support professional growth.   

Tatjana Ahmed, Director of Housekeeping, Grand Hyatt Dubai 

Your Journey 

Very early on I knew that I wanted to work in the hospitality industry. After my apprenticeship in hotel management, I started as a team leader at the front office only to realize, that front office wasn’t my calling. Wanting to venture out of my home town, I applied in a hotel on Lake Constanz in Bavaria. To my luck, the housekeeper did not only teach me housekeeping, me instilled a passion for housekeeping in me. Next I moved to Duesseldoef to work for my first international chain: Inter-Comtinental hotels. And from there I moved to the Middle East.  

 Defining Moments 

Looking back, I am immensely proud that I have been serving 15 years as Chairwoman of the UAE Professional Housekeepers Group, which was founded in May 2003. Two years ago, after an event of the UAE Professional Housekeepers Group, I was lead to a private dining area of the hotel were about 14 of my former assistant managers had been waiting for me to pay tribute to my contribution towards their growth and prosperity. This was a very special moment in my career which I will never forget. 

Paying It Forward 

Never underestimate the power and professionalism of our field. If you master your craft, you become indispensable to any hotel operation. To every young woman entering this industry: Your career is not limited by your starting position. With discipline, courage, and continuous growth, you can rise from operational roles to strategic leadership. Our industry needs strong, skilled women, and there has never been a better time to step forward. 

Trishna Hundal, Executive Housekeeper, Accor 

Your Journey  

My housekeeping journey began triumphantly with my selection at IHG from the outset. What has kept me passionately driven is my deep commitment to leadership, fostering team excellence, and masterfully converting operational challenges into resounding successes. My team's boundless passion, tireless dedication, and rock-solid commitment inspire me every day to consistently champion world-class standards. 

Defining Moments 

My proudest achievement is witnessing my supervisors, assistants, and even room attendants evolve into confident leadership roles across prestigious hotels. True leaders know when to step back, empowering juniors to step forward, make bold decisions, and learn through experience. This mentorship is vital for cultivating the next generation of housekeepers equipped to steer hotels towards lasting excellence. 

Paying It Forward 

My advice to the young aspirants would be: Housekeeping has evolved far beyond a back-of-house role—today, you're a vital pillar of the leadership team, equally indispensable. Pursue your leadership with unwavering boldness, confront challenges head-on, and nurture resilient, high-performing teams. 

I actively champion women's inclusion through targeted hiring, hands-on mentoring, collaborative performance sessions, and shared accountability initiatives—empowering women to rise as transformative housekeeping leaders. Women must embrace their courage, unlock their immense potential, and boldly shape the future of our industry. 

Zhennia Cheng, Director of Housekeeping, In-Charge of Residences Operations, InterContinental® Doha Beach & Spa, InterContinental® Doha Residences 

Your journey 

My journey into housekeeping began over 28 years ago with a simple belief — that excellence lives in the details. What started as a role focused on maintaining standards quickly evolved into a lifelong passion for creating environments where guests feel comforted, valued, and cared for. Over the years, I have grown alongside the industry — adapting to changing guest expectations, new technologies, sustainability practices, and global challenges. After more than 28 years in this profession, I remain proud to call housekeeping my career. It has taught me humility, resilience, compassion, and the value of excellence behind the scenes. 

Defining Moments 

Managing teams during high-occupancy seasons, renovations, and global disruptions taught me resilience. One of my proudest achievements has been mentoring colleagues who started in entry-level roles and grew into supervisors and managers. Implementing quality control systems, training programs, and performance benchmarks elevated departmental standards and guest satisfaction scores. Each of these moments reinforced my belief that leadership is not about authority — it is about service. 

Paying It Forward 

To young women considering a career in housekeeping or hospitality, I would say there is no substitute for dedication. Consistency, discipline, and attention to detail will always set you apart.  Seek training, certifications, and mentorship. Learn not only operational skills but also leadership, budgeting, communication, and conflict resolution. Do not allow stereotypes or challenges to limit your ambition.   Housekeeping teams are diverse and hardworking. Respect your team, listen actively, and lead by example. Strong leaders create strong teams.