After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and human resources, Eman’s professional career flourished with business-oriented ventures. Her passion for and practice of advertising have thrived. Thanks to the combination of her educational knowledge and experience working alongside accomplished advertising gurus, her skills have not only developed but have also broken barriers in advertising in the MENA region. At Horizon FCB, Eman considers herself fortunate to work alongside an incredibly creative team, which has led her to co-create projects for industry giants such as Boeing, DHL, Centrum, and Dubai South.

Why did you choose this career path?

I chose advertising because I am fascinated with seeing the creative process grow from a simple idea into something you can see and touch. It offers me limitless opportunities to take my creative abilities and use them in the services and creative arts of the company and clients.

How did you land this job?

Based on my previous experience in advertising, the opportunity came up to work at Horizon FCB. My first interview for the account executive role was the starting point for my career growth and contribution to the company’s success.

How do you compare your work life vs what you imagined it would be?

I always imagined the advertising industry to have a dynamic and vibrant culture and workspace. So, it has exceeded my expectations, working with diverse teams and clientele. Growing in this field in the Middle East has been an unexpected, yet incredible opportunity.

What do you wish you had been told before you started working?

I wish I had told myself to take each unexpected turn as a learning opportunity. Every day, I learn new aspects of this growing industry and sometimes, my eagerness can get the best of me. But every day, I appreciate the new knowledge I gain and apply [it] to my next advertising adventure.

What is the best thing someone could tell you about your work?

Some of the feedback that has stuck with me is that my structural and organizational skills are my best strengths, along with always keeping open, reliable, and clear communication with clients and professional peers.

What is the worst thing someone could tell you about your work?

The saying that I am most apprehensive to hear is to “trust the process,” as I am generally an eager worker who strives to achieve quick and quality-driven results. However, I do strive to practice this mantra in order to focus on the goal and drive better results in the long run.

What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned at work so far?

The strongest takeaway I leave work with every day is the importance of active listening and teamwork. There are several unique perspectives that come together on each project, and being able to understand each one by utilizing these skills is what allows me to succeed in this role.

Who’s your role model?

My mother is the woman behind my success. She always pushes me to challenge myself.

If not this, what would you be doing?

Since my passion has always been for arts and creativity, I would like to explore the fashion world within the marketing/advertising field.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

I would see myself starting my own fashion marketing agency.

The 30 Under 30 ranking was first published in Communicate's Q1 2023 print issue.