TheFace: Sarah Turkistani, Saudi intrapreneur

Sarah Turkistanni and her son. (AN photo by Ziyad Alarfaj)

I am driven by gratitude, joy and serendipity. I was born a leader since day one, as I am the eldest of eight siblings. I had to be responsible as I was the role model for my sisters and brothers.

Raised in a small city called Taif, it added a lot to my personality and helped me understand people from different backgrounds.

I am also a wife of a kind man, and a mother of an amazing son. I am proud to be called Om Hazza.

As an intrapreneur, I have a big passion for disrupting the norms, leading change and helping others. I got the chance to do what I love working as corporate social sustainability strategist and social marketing project leader at Nahdi, where innovation and change is the only constant.

With a background in clinical pharmacy and a love of business, I decided to get my MBA. This an interesting combination that bestows on the field of retail pharmacy, and health industry in general, a social marketing twist.

I did not get approval to switch from pharmacy to business from my parents easily, but I am glad that I pursued my dream of being a businesswoman, doing what I like. I got them inspired and today I am happy that I have their blessings.

Ali, my husband, has been nothing but supportive of my journey. I am thankful to have someone who appreciates my ambitions, my sense of adventure and freedom.

I am grateful for every step and challenge I have faced to become who I am today. This has led me to the joy of living in the present and appreciating the moments of my life.

In the serendipity of my life I will have the chance to pursue my new dream of changing the wellness industry for women in Saudi Arabia.