Nadia Al Dossary: CEO. Feminist. Visionary.

Nadia Al Dossary is no stranger to male dominated environments, but nonetheless she is a fearless businesswoman that has managed to be successful despite the obstacles. In 2008, she was awarded Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year, by Ernst & Young in a fabulous ceremony at the Dead Sea in Jordan. As a role model for women everywhere, Nadia continues to be an inspiration by being an active member of the Clinton Global Initiative. We had a chance to catch up with Nadia.

Can you tell us a little bit about your educational background as well as your professional accomplishments?

Before joining Al Sale Eastern Co. (Steel), I worked while in college, with two children at the famous Avon Co. I must credit the British CEO of Avon in the Middle East Mrs. Edwina Sorkin who saw potential in me. After wards I was a silent partner at Al Sale (Steel) and until about four years ago, my partner had a bad car accident that left him unable to run the company for almost two years. I had to step into the driver seat. I have to say that I did not measure my work until Earnest & Young measured it and I won a prestigious award.

What is the reason for your success?

Everybody is always asking me the reason for my success. To tell you the truth, it is no more than playing a game without minding the consequences. I always tell my kids who are now grown up that life is a big game: no more no less. I play it hard and tough, and never look back. We all live but one short life…it’s worth it to live it right and enjoy the game.

More and more women in Saudi Arabia are controlling the nations wealth. Why do you think that is?

I hope that this true and I hope that the new generation will take more courageous steps toward individualism and free spirited-ness. We need more of that.

What has been your greatest professional challenge?

The most challenging obstacle for me was growing out of fear. Basically understanding my power, capacity, and acquiring wisdom, which sadly, cannot be medicine prescribed by a doctor. We have to pass the tunnels of life. I often find success stories are the ones about self-challenge.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in becoming an entrepreneur?

I would advise to believe in themselves and your own power. To understand that life does not give through prayers but also through work. Remember, your only enemy is fear.

You are an active member of the Clinton Global Initiative organization. What kind of work do you do there?

I consider the CGI a stepping-stone for me. We are moving the focus of the business from not just money driven but to a green business. It is not only a personal but a global issue.

You are a leader in both business as well as feminist rights in Saudi Arabia. What has been your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment is to encourage women in Saudi Arabia especially those who come from tribal families to step forward and put their faces in media. I did it first, and many young women now are breaking the taboo and doing the same. It is by speaking openly without fear how I see women and their roles in the future of Saudi Arabia.

What does your family think about your success?

When I started 14 years ago I did not think twice what my family wanted and what they will think of me, I just did what I wanted to do and accepted the consequences, now they are proud of me.