Life
Founder of Humanizing Brands and Global Keynote speaker, Mariam Farag talks to Emirates Woman about doing it all and delivering it with excellence.
What do the first 30 mins of your day look like, your morning routine?
The first 30 minutes of my day are crucial for setting the tone. I start with a simple routine to ground myself and prepare for the day ahead. I wake up early, usually around
5:30am. The first thing I do is meditate for 5 minutes. This helps me clear my mind and focus on my intentions for the day. After that, I make a cup of coffee and spend some quiet time journalling. I jot down my thoughts, goals, and any creative ideas that come to mind. Finally, I check my calendar and prioritize my tasks for the day. This routine helps me start the day with clarity and purpose.
You have an innate ability to make things happen — where did the fearlessness of facing a challenge come from for you? I believe my fearlessness when facing challenges comes from a combination of factors. Firstly, Iʼve always had a strong sense of purpose and passion for what I do. When you truly believe in your mission, it becomes easier to overcome obstacles. Secondly, Iʼve learned that failure is a natural part of growth and success. Instead of fearing failure, I embrace it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Lastly, I surround myself with a supportive network of mentors, friends, and colleagues who raised by a single mum who had to work tirelessly to provide for our family. This experience instilled in me a sense of independence and responsibility from a very young age. I watched my mom face challenges with incredible strength and resilience, which left a lasting impression on me. Her unwavering determination to put food on the table and provide for our family taught me the value of hard work and perseverance.
When else have you had to be fearless in life and how did this materialise?
Iʼve had to be fearless in various situations. One notable example was when I decided to start my own venture, Humanizing Brands. The uncertainty and challenges entrepreneurship required me to step out of my comfort zone and take calculated risks, much like my mom did every day to support our family. I knew that success wouldnʼt come easily, but I was determined to make it work. Additionally, Iʼve had to be fearless in advocating for causes I believe in, inspired by my mumʼs example of standing up for whatʼs right, even in the face of adversity. This fearlessness extends to navigating difficult personal circumstances, much like the ones we faced as a family. Itʼs about facing lifeʼs hardships head-on, just as my mom did, and using those experiences as sources of strength and motivation. In essence, my upbringing by a single mum who had to work tirelessly to provide for us has been a driving force behind my fearlessness in business, advocacy, and personal life. Itʼs a testament to the resilience and determination that I carry with me in all that I do. As I always say, turn your pain into power!
What is your biggest strength?
I consider my ability to connect with people and empathize with their needs and aspirations to be my biggest strength. Understanding the
human element in business and communication has been instrumental in my success.
How do you approach business when bravery is required?
When bravery is required in business, I take a strategic approach. I thoroughly research the situation, assess the risks, and formulate a plan. I also seek input from my team and mentors. Itʼs essential to balance boldness with careful consideration, and I always keep my long-term goals in mind.
What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome it?
One of my biggest challenges was navigating a major rebranding project for a well-established conglomerate. It involved convincing them to take a bold new direction, which initially met resistance. To overcome this, I conducted extensive market research and presented a compelling case for the change. I also worked closely with the client to address their concerns and involve them in the creative pro-cess. Ultimately, the rebrand was a success, and it reinforced the importance of persistence and effective communication.
Have you had any mentors in life and if so, what knowledge did they impart?
Iʼve been fortunate to have several mentors in my life who have imparted valuable knowledge. Theyʼve emphasized the importance of authenticity, resilience, and continuous learning. One key lesson Iʼve learned from them is the value of building genuine relationships and the power of collaboration.
What is a kindness you’ve received or a lesson you’ve learned that you’d like to pay forward?
Iʼve received kindness from mentors who generously shared their time and expertise. To pay it forward, I regularly mentor young professionals, providing guidance and support to help them navigate their careers. I believe in the ripple effect of kindness, and I’m always eager to support others in their journeys.
What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to embrace failures and setbacks as opportunities for growth. Donʼt be too hard on yourself, and always stay true to your values and passions. Surround yourself with a supportive network and never underestimate the power of perseverance. In addition to my background and upbringing, another significant aspect of my fearlessness journey is my ability to make sound decisions and adapt to new challenges. At a crucial juncture in my career, I made the deliberate choice to return to the corporate world by joining a huge family business – a global conglomerate, as a communications leader. This decision required me to juggle my passion projects, my full-time role, and my responsibilities as a mother for my boys. Juggling these diverse roles has come naturally to me because I love what I do. Building and humanising brands, whether they are personal or products, and the art of storytelling the journey truly excites me. I find immense satisfaction in witnessing the positive impact on the brand legacy that results from my efforts. This ability to balance multiple facets of my life showcases my fearlessness in taking on challenges and responsibilities head-on. Juggling these diverse roles has come naturally to me because of my deep passion for what I do. Itʼs a humbling experience to see how my work can contribute to something greater and leave a lasting mark. This ability to balance multiple facets of my life showcases my fearlessness in taking on challenges and responsibilities head-on.
This is The Fearlessness Issue – what does being fearless mean to you?
Being fearless, to me, remains a guiding principle in all aspects of my life. Itʼs about having the courage to pursue your dreams and convictions despite the inevitable obstacles and uncertainties that life presents. Whether itʼs starting a business, advocating for a cause, adapting to new roles and responsibilities, or managing the intricate dance of motherhood, fearlessness is the mindset that empowers us to make a positive impact on the world. Fearlessness isnʼt the absence of fear but rather the determination to move forward in spite of it. Itʼs about learning from every experience, staying true to your values and purpose, and embracing every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Itʼs the unwavering belief that your actions can create meaningful change and leave a lasting legacy, just as I strive to do in my journey of humanising brands and making a difference in the world of communication.
