The Gulf region is witnessing a remarkable wave of transformation, led by bold, visionary women who are redefining leadership across industries. In this rising tide of change, five influential figures stand out: Lianda Leach, Bernadette Zawk, Dr. Karthika Singh, Anjali Chandiramani, and Yulya Buravcenko. Each of them represents a different facet of modern business, yet they are united by a shared drive to lead with integrity, purpose, and innovation.
Their stories span continents and sectors, from luxury real estate and international trade to wellness entrepreneurship, strategic consultancy, and human rights advocacy. These women are not simply succeeding in their respective fields, they are transforming them. Whether building global fitness brands, revolutionizing blockchain in trade, managing multimillion-dirham communities, or shaping policy through activism, their impact is both deep and far-reaching.
In Gulf’s 5 Empowering Business Women to Watch in 2025, GulfArticles.com brings together these trailblazers to spotlight their individual achievements and collective influence. This feature is not just about recognition, it is about inspiration. Through their work, these women are shifting paradigms, breaking barriers, and proving that leadership grounded in vision and values has the power to change lives, industries, and communities.
Their journeys are marked by resilience, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As we tell their stories, we also highlight a larger movement, one where women are not only stepping into positions of power but are also defining what power truly means in the Gulf’s evolving business landscape.
Lianda Leach
Lianda’s journey began in a small town in England, but her aspirations always stretched far beyond the horizon. At just 24, she made the bold move to Dubai with no connections, no safety net, only courage, ambition, and a deep belief that she was built for more.
That strength was shaped by her upbringing. Raised by a mother who embodied quiet resilience and fierce love, Lianda watched firsthand what grace under pressure looked like. Her mother raised three daughters to be independent, strong, and unshakable. From her, Lianda learned how to stay composed in chaos, lead with integrity, and rise without ever compromising her softness.
She began her career in banking, specialising in home finance and mortgages. But it was Dubai’s skyline, and the invisible systems that kept it functioning, that captured her imagination. What started as curiosity soon became a calling. Determined to deepen her knowledge, she pursued a degree in Estate Management from Reading University, gaining further expertise and strategic insight into the built environment.
Today, as Senior Director – Community Management at LOAMS, DAMAC Properties, Lianda oversees some of Dubai’s most prestigious high-rise residential communities. Her leadership spans every facet of community life: overseeing complex service contracts with strict KPIs, ensuring statutory compliance, and driving multi-million-dirham enhancement projects that modernise infrastructure and future-proof legacy developments.
Over the years, Lianda’s ability to manage under pressure has been tested time and again. From navigating and supporting her teams through hundreds of resident complaints during critical building system failures in high-rise towers, to collaborating with technical teams to reengineer underperforming assets during economic downturns, she has consistently demonstrated resilience, clarity, and control in high-stakes environments. One of her proudest achievements was transforming a struggling residential development into a flagship address, raising resident satisfaction by over 40%, reducing service charge deficits, and restoring investor confidence.
For Lianda, leadership in community management means ensuring that buildings are not merely maintained, they are elevated. Each property is kept clean, secure, technically sound, and operationally seamless. But beyond function, she ensures they are run with a touch of elegance, class, and distinction that sets them apart.
Lianda understands that every property is more than bricks and mortar. For some, it’s a home. For others, a long-term investment. Either way, it carries deep personal and financial meaning. That awareness fuels her purpose: to protect both the lifestyle and the asset. Her mission is to ensure that each building is managed to the highest standards of quality, hospitality, and care.
She believes that excellence isn’t defined by architecture alone, but by how a building is lived in, cared for, and remembered. Her measure of success is clear: with the aim that properties are managed as world-class communities, places that residents are proud to call home and investors trust to retain value. Communities where the lived experience is so thoughtfully delivered, it stays with people long after they leave.
To Lianda, community management is the invisible infrastructure that holds everything together. It’s not a background function, it’s the emotional and operational backbone of a building. She understands that both homeowners and investors place immense trust in the management company, and she honours that trust with her team through consistency, service excellence, and an unwavering attention to detail.
Her leadership style is intentional and human. She listens deeply, acts decisively, and empowers her teams to lead with ownership. She blends structure with empathy, pairing business acumen with people-first thinking.
In a male-dominated industry, Lianda doesn’t lead by being louder, she leads by being better. She shows up. She delivers. Her calm authority and steady presence have been instrumental in times of crisis and growth alike. She’s the voice of clarity when challenges arise and the force of momentum when solutions are needed.
Motherhood added a new dimension to her leadership. As a mother of three, her children are her greatest purpose and her grounding force. Through motherhood, she gained deeper insight into what families really need from the places they live, safety, belonging, and care. That insight shapes the way she builds communities: with empathy, foresight, and heart.
Her blend of emotional intelligence and operational precision has helped her lead through economic shifts, resident challenges, high-demand expectations, and moments of intense pressure. She credits her resilience not to being immune to difficulty, but to being anchored in purpose.
Outside of her executive life, Lianda is a certified face yoga teacher, a personal passion that reflects her belief in holistic wellbeing. Just like buildings, she believes the human body is deeply interconnected, and that every facial muscle holds energy, emotion, and expression. With over 40 muscles in the face alone, skilled touch and targeted movement can help stimulate circulation, support internal organ health, and promote a natural glow, revealing what she calls “hourglass skin” from the inside out.
Bernadette Zawk
Bernadette Zawk is a distinguished professional whose career is defined by resilience, authenticity, and a deep-rooted commitment to excellence in business development and sales. Her journey from a modest upbringing in Sebaal, a small village in northern Lebanon, to becoming a recognized leader across the Gulf region reflects an inspiring path marked by perseverance and purpose.
From a young age, Bernadette embraced the values of hard work and integrity. Despite the limitations of her environment, she pursued higher education and earned an MBA, equipping her with the strategic insight needed to succeed in the competitive world of business. She began her entrepreneurial career by launching her own trading business in Lebanon, where her market acumen and people-first approach enabled her to build a reputable and trusted enterprise.
In 2007, she relocated to the United Arab Emirates in the aftermath of Lebanon's 2006 war. Viewing the UAE as a land of opportunity, she saw it as a place where she could rebuild and grow. The decision came on the heels of a significant personal and professional setback—losing her business in 2005 due to regional political and economic turmoil. Instead of being discouraged, Bernadette turned this challenge into a stepping stone. Her belief that experience is an irreplaceable asset and that people, not circumstances, generate value became a guiding principle in her renewed journey.
Her passion for sales has remained the constant thread throughout her career. She believes in the power of genuine human relationships and emphasizes that true success stems from transparency, consistent follow-up, and mutual trust. Her transparent, relationship-driven style has earned her respect within the industry and enabled her to maintain long-term, impactful professional relationships.
Currently, Bernadette, who joined six months ago, is the Director of Business Development for a prominent Italian manufacturer renowned for automation and perimeter security solutions, one of the industry leaders. Prior to this role, she held a position at a different company, where she successfully managed and delivered numerous iconic projects across the Gulf, Levant, and Egypt. Her strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in driving regional growth and expanding the company's market presence throughout her career.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Bernadette is actively involved in community and industry organizations. She is a proud member of Women’s Choice, Dubai Women Business Council, and the Professional Security and Safety Association (PSSA). These affiliations reflect her strong commitment to empowering women in business, promoting industry best practices, and supporting the continuous development of professional standards across her field.
Her story continues to inspire those around her. Through mentoring and public engagement, she encourages aspiring professionals to approach challenges as opportunities and to lead with purpose and integrity. She believes that honesty, persistence, and meaningful connections are the real currencies of leadership and long-term success.
Outside her professional role, Bernadette values personal growth and enriching relationships. She lives by the principles of authenticity and generosity, always aiming to share her knowledge and inspire others to lead lives defined by clarity, integrity, and continuous learning.
Bernadette Zawk is a name synonymous with resilience and leadership. Her journey from her small village in Lebanon to a regional leadership role in the UAE underscores her belief that with determination and genuine human connection, any challenge can be transformed into a new opportunity. As an advocate for women’s empowerment and a respected voice in her industry, she continues to lead by example and remains a powerful influence across the Gulf region.
Dr. Karthika Singh
Ambassador Dr. Karthika Singh is a remarkable force whose career is defined not by a single title, but by the many transformative roles she embraces. A dynamic entrepreneur, strategic consultant, and human rights leader, she represents a rare combination of business acumen and humanitarian commitment. Her work spans India and Dubai, where she is actively building connections between industries and communities with clarity, compassion, and purpose.
With over 15 years of diverse experience, Dr. Karthika has carved her space across key domains, from international business and marketing to export-import consultancy and social advocacy. Her enterprise, Karthika Consultancy, continues to guide brands and entrepreneurs with customized solutions rooted in strategy and sustainability. Her business journey extends into export-import operations, helping connect global markets with Indian innovation.
At the heart of her work is a mission larger than commerce. Appointed as State Head of Mumbai, Maharashtra in the Crime Grievance and Intelligence Council, Dr. Karthika is a committed human rights leader advocating for justice, equality, and the protection of vulnerable communities. This role reflects her broader dedication to societal upliftment, one that goes beyond policy into hands-on activism and institutional change.
She also maintains an active footprint in the film and event sectors. Through her creative initiatives under AMANKA Entertainment and Workaholic FILMS, she has supported narratives that inspire change, amplify marginalized voices, and blend entertainment with impact. While no longer associated with ICONS FILMS, her media work continues to be shaped by the goal of socially relevant storytelling.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Dr. Karthika has received numerous honors, including the Padma Shri honorary award, the Bharat Gaurav Ratna Shri Sammaan, the Outstanding Women Leadership Award by QueenBook, and the International Woman Icon Award 2024–25 by the WCAEPC under the Government of India. Most recently, she was named Best Business Woman of The Year 2024, acknowledging her success in merging innovation with integrity.
Her vision for the future includes launching an NGO in India that will further her efforts in human rights, youth empowerment, and environmental responsibility. “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way,” she says, a quote that not only reflects her beliefs but also defines her everyday reality.
Amb. Dr. Karthika Singh continues to prove that true leadership is not about titles or applause, but about impact. Whether she is advising a multinational client, spearheading a social campaign, mentoring young changemakers, or shaping the future of policy through her advocacy work, she does so with clarity, commitment, and a deeply rooted desire to serve.
As one of the Gulf’s most empowering business women to watch in 2025, Dr. Karthika Singh is not simply navigating the world, she is actively shaping it across sectors and borders. Her journey stands as a testament to what is possible when enterprise meets empathy, and when leadership is rooted in both vision and action.
Anjali Chandiramani
Anjali Chandiramani is a dynamic businesswoman, certified Pilates instructor, and visionary entrepreneur who has significantly influenced the fitness landscape in the Gulf. Armed with an MBA and an unwavering passion for wellness, she launched her entrepreneurial journey in 2016 by founding A-Tone Fitness Lounge in Dubai. This initiative marked the beginning of a transformative career dedicated to health, fitness, and empowerment.
In 2019, Anjali took her mission further by co-founding the second branch of Pilates Academy®️, a move that set the foundation for the brand’s growing global footprint. Under her sharp and strategic leadership, the academy has seen remarkable growth. She oversees a wide range of functions including sales, public relations, marketing, equipment management, franchising, and on-site studio operations, all while continuing to serve as a certified Pilates trainer.
Anjali's leadership style is both hands-on and visionary. Her ability to lead operationally while nurturing a clear and scalable business strategy sets her apart in the wellness sector. She is instrumental in developing partnerships and driving international growth, positioning Pilates Academy®️ as a premier name in holistic fitness.
A proud member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), Anjali has earned accolades for Outstanding Leadership in the Health Industry, a reflection of her dedication and influence. With ten thriving branches already established, she continues to push boundaries with an ambitious vision: to create a global network of elite wellness studios that serve as hubs for transformation, community, and inspiration.
Her mission is clear, make holistic fitness not only accessible but also deeply impactful, empowering individuals across borders to live healthier, balanced lives. Through her relentless drive and inspiring leadership, Anjali Chandiramani is undoubtedly one of the Gulf’s most empowering business women to watch in 2025.
Yulya Buravcenko
In the ever-evolving domain of international trade, Yulya Buravcenko stands out as a visionary leader committed to redefining the landscape of global commerce through innovation, security, and transparency. As the Founder and CEO of JB Partners, headquartered in Dubai, Yulya is steering the future of borderless trade, underpinned by emerging technologies that promote trust and efficiency across cross-border transactions.
With over a decade of experience in international trade, investment structuring, and global deal-making, Yulya has cultivated a reputation for clarity, creativity, and decisive action. Her expertise in managing high-value international transactions has not only earned her widespread respect among private sector stakeholders but has also drawn the attention of government and institutional bodies seeking scalable digital solutions to legacy trade inefficiencies.
Among her most influential ventures is Transactum, a blockchain-powered international trade platform that aims to consolidate the fragmented processes of global commerce, ranging from logistics and compliance to finance, documentation, and verification, into one cohesive ecosystem. Piloted in several MENA countries with institutional backing, Transactum is a bold step toward solving one of global trade’s most pressing challenges: trust. By integrating blockchain technology and smart contracts into the core of international commerce, Yulya is creating a secure, transparent, and user-friendly infrastructure that has the potential to serve as a cornerstone for emerging market economies.
Yulya's approach is not just visionary but also highly execution-driven. Her work is characterized by the seamless fusion of technology and policy, aimed at fostering real-world impact. In addition to Transactum, she leads multiple interconnected initiatives designed to improve trade infrastructure and facilitate cross-continental investment flows, particularly between the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. One such initiative is Ambry, an AI-based logistics and storage platform that streamlines access to verified warehousing, shipping, and compliance services. Together, Ambry and Transactum represent a comprehensive effort to digitize and de-risk the entire trade and logistics chain, further expanding Yulya’s influence as a change-maker in international commerce.
Beyond building platforms, Yulya actively advises governments and institutions on integrating digital trade tools that reduce operational costs, mitigate fraud risks, and increase market access for small and medium-sized enterprises. Her passion for democratizing global trade has made her an advocate for inclusive economic growth and sustainable business models.
As a recognized voice in the field, Yulya is a frequent speaker at trade and technology summits held in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Muscat, and San Francisco. Her thought leadership spans both public forums and strategic negotiations, where her ability to translate complex technological concepts into actionable policies has set her apart. Her commentary consistently bridges the gap between traditional commerce and the rapidly approaching digital future.
Adding to her growing portfolio of influence, Yulya hosts a podcast focused on cross-border investment and global trade, featuring insightful dialogues with financiers, trade experts, and innovators. Through this platform, she continues her mission of widening access to trade knowledge and fostering a more informed global business community.
Looking ahead, Yulya’s aspirations remain as ambitious as her accomplishments. Her next strategic milestone is to see Transactum recognized by the World Trade Organization as a globally accepted system for automated, blockchain-based trade. This goal encapsulates her broader vision of establishing a secure digital foundation that facilitates smarter, faster, and more inclusive trade practices across the globe.
In a region characterized by fast-paced digital advancement, Yulya Buravcenko is not merely adapting to the tide of change, she is helping shape it. Her work signals a powerful combination of technological acumen, policy awareness, and strategic foresight. As global trade continues to transform, Yulya stands as a trusted and dynamic leader charting the course for the next generation of commerce.
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yulya_buravcenco
- LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/yulya-buravcenco
- Corporate - https://jbpartners.capital/
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