Bazaar Beliefs: Abeer Al Tamimi On Values, Her Visions For The Future And The Key To Success
“You will fail many times. Some people will encourage your vision, and some will be sceptical, nevertheless – you should always pursue what you believe in and enjoy”
Eight years ago, Dubai-based mum-of-two Abeer launched the hugely successful KidsHQ after seeing a gap in the market for a sanctuary where parents could work while their children play, or a hub where they could spend time together and enjoy value-adding social programmes. After a pandemic-induced break, the entrepreneur is back in business with a host of innovative ideas
What part of your work are you most proud of?
Making a difference in the lives of children and parents alike. We bring in professionals for group talks for mothers, covering subjects from postnatal depression to fussy eaters, we also set up a free babysitting service for mothers who join our fitness classes and have just launched a private working space for parents. KidsHQ has set the pace for innovation; adjusting our business model to suit the current times and needs of our clientele. Being a market leader and innovator in our field definitely makes me proud.
Who is your role model?
Growing up, my history teacher introduced me to the [feminist journalist and activist] Gloria Steinem. I loved everything this woman stood for, the way she endured all the name-calling and bullying. She never gave up on the cause or the women she fought for.
What advice would you give your younger self?
You will fail many times. Some people will encourage your vision, and some will be sceptical, nevertheless – you should always pursue what you believe in and enjoy.
Which experience taught you most about yourself?
Leaving the comfort of the corporate world and starting my own business from scratch with no prior experience in the industry. I quickly learnt how to adjust my mindset to the different challenges, I had many roles to take on; I was in HR, finance, legal and my own PRO. That challenged me to step up and pave my own path.
What’s your motto?
Since I was 16, I have always loved this Cree American-Indian proverb: “Only when the last tree has died, and the last river has been poisoned and the last fish caught, will we realise we cannot eat money.” It talks about respect. Respect to mother nature, respect to other humans regardless of ethnicity and religion or how much money someone has; we are all equal.
What are you most passionate about?
Making a difference. You can easily make a difference in someone’s life by giving them a smile or handing them a bottle of water on a hot day. In my case, helping a frustrated mother. Spreading positive vibes is my passion.
What feeds your soul?
A quiet Friday on the beach with my friends, tea and biscuits in the garden with my father and mother, a walk with our dogs, cuddles with my kids or binge-watching a real-crime show with my husband.
The value you most admire?
Honesty. No matter what the circumstance, a person should always be honest. When I was a teenager a very wise father figure in my life said: “Everyone makes mistakes, but one should always speak the truth. Lies have short legs, people eventually catch up to them.”
What do you most frequently dream about?
A peaceful world, a cleaner eco-system and no social media! I think social media has set unrealistic standards when it comes to lifestyle, beauty and distortion of the truth, but it can be a powerful tool to communicate injustice. I believe a strong shift in the social-media landscape is needed.
The future is…
What you choose to make it.
To know more about KidsHQ follow @kidshquae
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s May 2021 Issue