Nermine considers herself to be a multipotentialite, which translates into her pursuit of many passions in her daily life, from her career to her love of salsa dance, comedy, and volunteering. Nermine stepped into the media world as a social media executive at Mindshare and joined Zenith more than two years ago as an influencer marketing executive, leading on Nestlé’s regional influencer activations. The fact that she was always interested in the broader media landscape led her to become a senior media executive, managing both Maggi and Nestlé Sweeten Condensed Milk. She also has a thriving life outside of work. She’s a proud aunt, learning to dance, and working on her stand-up comedy.

Why did you choose this career path?

I chose this career path because it has the perfect balance of people, creativity, and dynamism.

How did you land this job?

I received a LinkedIn message from a recruiter at Publicis Groupe and I felt it was exactly what I needed at the time. I took the opportunity to be an influencer marketing executive at Zenith and two years later, I’ve grown with them into my current position as a senior media executive.

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

I expected to be running from one meeting room to the other. Now I’m virtually switching through video calls.

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

There’s a saying in Arabic that says, “Life ends and work doesn’t,” meaning there’ll always be more work to be done but you won’t live forever. So, it’s important to prioritize your mental health and enjoy your free time while you can.

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

More than anything, I love when people tell me that they enjoy working with me. Being fun and easy to work with is a point of pride for me.

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

That it makes their work harder or less smooth, especially if their work depends on mine.

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

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned at work is that proactivity and hard work go hand in hand. It’s not enough to work hard if you don’t take initiative.

Who’s your role model?

My late father. He taught me the importance of responsibility, empathy, and being humble.

If not this, what would you be doing?

I think I would’ve been an elementary school teacher. Or a social worker. Or an event planner. It’s hard to say.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

I think I’ll have completed another degree, and maybe be working as a university instructor while also working a corporate job. I also have a lot of business ideas in mind, so maybe I’ll explore being an entrepreneur.

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