Two Pakistani women — Shaista Asif and Shazia Syed have made it to the prestigious list of the top 10 most powerful female executives in the Middle East, published by Forbes.
Who is Shaista Asif?
Shaista Asif, the co-founder and CEO of PureHealth Holding, has been ranked fourth in ‘The Middle East’s 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen 2024’ list. Asif founded the healthcare company in 2006 and has been leading it since December 2023.
The company recently made headlines with its first public offering (IPO) on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), raising a whopping $986 million. They also acquired the UK’s biggest independent hospital operator, Circle Health Group and the UAE’s largest healthcare complex, Sheikh Shakbout Medical City, for $1.2 billion and $600 million respectively.
Knowing Shazia Syed better
The second woman recognized by Forbes is Shazia Syed. She is the General Manager of Unilever in North Africa, Levant, and Iraq and the Arabia Senior Customer Development Lead. Syed has a wealth of experience working in big companies, starting with Unilever in Pakistan in 1989.
Then Shazia Syed took over as the General Manager for North Africa, Levant, and Iraq in 2021. She has also served on the board of United Bank Limited of Pakistan. She has worked for various companies including Pukka Tea and Pepsi Lipton in the past.
Also read: Meet Samreen Amir — First Christian Woman Appointed SHO In Pakistan’s Kurram District
The inclusion of these two Pakistani women on the Forbes list is a testament to their hard work and dedication to their respective fields. They have shattered the glass ceiling and proven that women can excel in leadership positions as well. Their achievements are for sure an inspiration for aspiring female entrepreneurs and executives across the region.
What do you think of the story? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
