It could be contended that the drive to grow and evolve is inherent in human DNA. In essence, we are programmed to prioritize qualitative growth that can be measured. The desire to transform into a better version of ourselves and to exert control over our lives influences numerous decisions, both professionally and personally. However, this is a personal objective. Unless you are someone like 36-year-old Huda AlHadhrami, whose life purpose is to engage and empower her fellow citizens. As the Deputy Head of Empowerment and Inclusion at VFS Global, AlHadhrami conducts workshops and mentors individuals to be authentic, to recognize their strengths and areas for improvement in the workplace, and to assist them in becoming more professional versions of themselves.
AlHadhrami has accumulated 14 years of experience and has a background in human resources, having previously worked with a government agency and a semi-government agency before joining a private company, believing she could make a greater impact there. "I believe everyone has something valuable to contribute. Sometimes, they just need someone to ignite their potential. Before joining VFS Global, I met the CEO, and he was very inspiring. He spoke passionately about his vision for developing UAE nationals, integrating them into the global workforce, and nurturing their growth within the UAE and beyond." Prior to this role, she had been employed by a government entity. "In a government entity, the majority of employees are nationals, and this discourse on empowering Emiratis is a constant, as it is ingrained in our culture. However, hearing it from a private sector CEO, especially one who is not a UAE national, was truly inspiring to me, and that's what drew me to work here; his commitment to investing in UAE nationals."
The aspiration to see others empowered and striving for more is deeply embedded in AlHadhrami's character. This might be influenced by her role model: her grandmother. "My grandmother raised six of us, five sisters and one brother. She was our role model. Although she was not educated, she would visit our school, inquire about our performance, what we excelled in, and what we needed to improve. She might not have understood the specifics of our schoolwork, but she knew how to motivate us to do better. I believe she possessed a kind of magic. She was incredibly persistent." She was also highly entrepreneurial. "When we were children, she would create items at home, like clothes or baskets, and sell them. She had a strong community outside our home, and as a woman, she defied the norms of her time. She had the courage to be different, teaching us that we too could be unconventional."
When AlHadhrami attended university, she applied this lesson; at one point, she balanced both work and studies simultaneously. By doing so, she expanded her own horizons, realizing she wanted to help others break through their self-imposed limitations as well. As a transformational coach, she encourages VFS Global employees to venture beyond their comfort zones. "The beauty of coaching lies in not providing answers, but guiding individuals to discover their own," she explains. She is not intimidated by the diversity of people she encounters. "My father is a UAE national and my mother is Somalian. Growing up, I was exposed to different cultures, which significantly shaped my personality," she reflects.
In her efforts to assist Emiratis in adapting to a globalized workforce, AlHadhrami also organizes cultural sessions where UAE nationals can learn about social norms from other countries, and international employees can understand potential cultural gaffes when interacting with Middle Eastern counterparts. "One initiative we introduced at VFS is a cultural session. We discuss the history of the UAE, our values, customs, dining etiquette, hospitality, and what behaviors to avoid. For instance, in our culture, we do not shake hands with members of the opposite gender. When I joined VFS, I noticed everyone shaking hands, and I would respectfully avoid it unless it became too awkward."
Through her interactions with people from around the world, AlHadhrami has learned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to teaching or communication. "What resonates with young minds may not appeal to older individuals. Selecting the appropriate method to convey the message is crucial." She emphasizes the importance of networking for young professionals. "At some point, you need to know who to contact, what resources you require, where to seek guidance. I've known people who've worked for a company for a decade and still don't know anyone."
Creating networks is essential for personal growth. "Growth isn't just about a salary increase or promotion; it's about personal development and gaining insights from others, seeking advice, and continuously learning. If you come to work and don't do something new, hear something interesting, change your approach, or meet new people, you're not making the most of your time." She advocates for consistency and a commitment to self-improvement. "I believe you can learn something valuable from any job. If you haven't improved after two or three years in one organization, it might be time to move on, but the continuous learning throughout your career is the most valuable asset you'll gain, rather than just the paycheck."
Currently, AlHadhrami is pursuing her PhD, focusing on her passion: employee engagement. "It's what I do, what I love, and it's not just part of my job; it's my passion," she laughs.
