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Maya Bou Ajram #women2watch

Official title:

General Manager – UM UAE

Away from the usual, my bio is:

A book lover who escapes into stories of mystery, drama, and fantasy. I find meaning in the small things and energy in big ideas. I’m a partner, a sister, a friend—and a mom to a headstrong 4-year-old who keeps me on my toes and sharpens my sense of purpose. Life outside work keeps me grounded and sane, but it’s the ambition to build, challenge, and grow that keeps me going.

If I were to nominate anyone on this list it would be, and why:

I’d nominate full-time working parents who are fully present in all parts of their lives—whether it’s at work, at home, or in their personal growth. From experience I know the struggles of juggling multiple roles, and to be able to show up with heart and purpose is deeply inspiring to me.

It’s not just about the title of being a parent but the commitment to evolve, set an example, and stay grounded. It’s the quiet strength in showing up (even on days when you’re running on empty) that I admire the most!

Some of the reasons I should not be on this list are:

Even after all this time in the industry, I find myself questioning whether I’ve done enough or if something could’ve been done better. I often downplay my personal wins and experience self-doubt more than I’d like to admit—but I’ve learned that embracing those doubts has helped me grow as a leader. It’s taught me to push through uncertainty and keep evolving, both for myself and for those I work with.

If you ask my husband, though, he might say I shouldn’t be on any list until I start answering my phone.

My lowest point of my career was/the highest point of my career was:

The lowest point in my career was when I lost my sense of purpose. I took a short sabbatical and that time away helped me reconnect with my passion and reignited my drive. It was an important reminder that taking a step back is sometimes exactly what you need to move forward. As for the highest point of my career, I always find joy in the moments after presentations or pitches—when a client is thrilled by a great idea or when the team hits a milestone together. But honestly, nothing beats watching someone on my team grow and flourish into a leader in their own right. That’s the real success for me.

What I learned from either:

I’ve learned that balance is everything. Losing my drive reminded me that when work stops inspiring you, it’s a sign to reevaluate and find ways to contribute meaningfully and reconnect with what truly energizes you. I’ve also confirmed that the best work doesn’t just come from a great idea—it’s collaboration, partnership, and shared vision that drive success. The more I’ve leaned into that, the more I’ve seen people on my team and my clients thrive. We’re not just delivering plans; we’re building connections.

If there’s one thing on my bucket list I want to do, it would be:

Definitely Machu Picchu. I’m not a fanatical hiker, but I do enjoy nature a lot and I love going to places with breathtaking views & historical significance where you can lay back, disconnect, and recharge. I’m sure this will be a trip worth remembering!

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