How do you describe yourself?
Gentle yet robust, creative yet system driven, dreamer yet aware of the world around. Changing lives and societies, one patient at a time.
What do others say about you?
That I am always on the go. High grit index and lots of self-motivation.
What’s your greatest achievement in life?
Achievement comes from believing in yourself. Once that conviction is there, in a realistic insightful manner with some objectivity; then with hard work and dedication; you can conquer the world. My greatest achievement came from being able to conquer my self-doubt and have confidence in my abilities. This has helped me enjoy and appreciate successes which I earlier would not recognize.
Your greatest achievement in business?
Healthcare has my heart in it. Every day knowing that as an institution we are saving lives and bringing hope to the lives of people is what makes work worthwhile.
What’s your greatest fear?
Hiring and recruiting talent that does not fit the organization has serious repercussions especially in healthcare. Hence, bringing people on board with a like-minded code of conduct and ethics is of paramount importance for us.
What is the single largest problem facing your industry today?
Limited access to quality and affordable healthcare is possibly the biggest challenge; high costs prevent a large segment of the world’s population from accessing quality healthcare.
What do you enjoy the most about working at your company?
Working with a group of self-motivated professionals with passion and an entrepreneurial spirit, who have come together to create something big. We are a home grown institution and it is our values and culture that set us apart from the rest.
What virtue do you admire most in other people?
I admire people who are consistent in their values and actions.
What inspires you?
My father has and will continue to inspire my dream to see a future where everyone has access to quality and affordable healthcare. In addition to leading Aster DM’s growth trajectory, I would love to leave a mark in gender equality and support other women achieve their true potential.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Coming from a conservative Muslim family of three girls, I had to fight my share of battles to prove myself to my extended family.
What do you think are the most important attributes of successful people?
I believe that having personal values of excellence and passion, play an instrumental role in building successful people.
What’s one productivity tip you wish everyone else knew?
Regardless of what area you choose, my advice would be not to get distracted focusing on too many things. Focus on a few things and do it with all the love, energy, passion and enthusiasm you have. Prioritize your goals and work.
How do you make decisions?
Surrounding yourself with strong minded people will ultimately drive you and your business forward. Working closely as a group is the best way to develop and implement new initiatives and ideas.
What is your most prized possession?
My books – especially Rumi’s poetry, Wuthering Heights, and family photo albums.
What’s your biggest luxury in life?
I would say, the time that I spend with my family, especially the precious moments with my children.
What makes you get out of bed each day?
I get up each morning with an unrelenting desire to make this world a better place.
Who do you look up to? In life or business?
I have two role models, Indra Nooyi and Marissa Mayer. I like the combination of their strengths – from hard to soft factors, with the warmth that exudes at the same time as financial prowess and skills, but more than anything being comfortable in their own skin and always remembering their roots and their personal journey.
What makes you laugh?
My children, my friends and the Daily show!
Quote to live your life by?
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity” by Lucius Annaeus Seneca.
What advice would you give your 18-year old self?
Follow your passion and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.