Seemingly desirous of having the last word, Sheikha Hanadi came through and granted Bespoke access into her world. One in which time is a precious commodity and wasting it is of the greatest prodigality.
A graduate of the London School of Economics, Sheikha Hanadi’s success in the worlds of finance and real estate development was slow but sure. About nine years ago, she set off on a path that would dazzle many observers when she established Amwal (née the Qatar Ladies Investment Company) where she is also vice chairperson and managing director, to encourage her fellow females to take an interest in beefing up their financial portfolio, “There is an enormous and untapped pool of female entrepreneurs in the Arab world, with such a great potential need for them to have a positive impact of the current developments of their economies,” says Sheikha Hanadi, “however, for this strength to be unleashed, it has to be built on solid beliefs and internal acceptance,” she thoughtfully recommends. Sheikha Hanadi is also the ceo of Al Waab Real Estate Company, currently developing an astounding 1.2 million square metres of mix-used property in Qatar.
The investment firm, over time, grew to garner some of Qatar’s most coveted accounts, “I believe that Amwal, benefiting from deep-rooted knowledge of the local market and bolstered by a wealth of international expertise has been able to achieve numerous business records,” explains Sheikha Hanadi referring to Amwal being the first investment company to be licensed by her country’s Central Bank among other ‘first’ accolades. Auspiciously – then again perhaps not – Sheikha Hanadi is also our first Visionary award winner. In this interview, she shares her views on investment, real estate, wealth and family.
Congratulations on winning the Vision Award for 2007, what does it feel like being recognised as one of the foremost business-minds in the region?
I feel honoured for receiving this prestigious recognition. However, I would like to point out that a vision which relies [only] on one person never materialises. Teamwork and the sharing of a common vision [are the elements which help] achieve goals. This is why I think this recognition should go to all the team at Amwal.
How did the idea for Amwal originate?
Qatar has been witnessing an exponential surge in economical growth for several years. Led by the visionary leadership of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the country has been at the forefront of major business developments with wise reforms spanning diversified sectors. Walking the illustrious path paved by His Highness, and with the support and encouragement of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al Misnad, Qatar Ladies Investment Company [later named Amwal], started with the objective of offering financial services to women, to raise their knowledge of the financial world, its opportunities and services. Today, Amwal is the leading investment banking and asset management firm in Qatar.
What can Amwal offer that no other investment company bank can?
The company is equipped with a growing pool of investment experts who provide the best customised investment solutions and opportunities for the company’s clients. Amwal also boasts a prestigious shareholders base comprising of the region’s most prominent organisations. By participating in the development of the financial services sector, by gaining recognition within the community in which we live and operate, and by exceeding our clients’ financial aspirations, Amwal will continue to lead the way.
Amwal was first called Qatar Ladies Investment Company why did you feel that you needed to change the name?
Changing the name of Qatar Ladies Investment Company to Amwal goes in line with the broader aspect of our strategy, which is purely set to accommodate the social and economic changes that have happened in Qatar in the last 10 years.
What is next for Amwal?
We are actually launching the first Environment Fund and a Tranche of Performance Environment in Qatar.
You also have interests in real estate as ceo of Al Waab City Real Estate. Qatar being small, do you think of purchasing and developing real estate outside of the Emirate?
As an entrepreneur, I always look into new opportunities for expansion. But I believe that Qatar holds exceptional potential for real estate development. Qatar is actually bringing to the region a healthy mix of modern living that is still rooted in the fabric and richness of our culture and traditions. I also believe that Qatar has the necessary skills, talent, expertise, business environment and processes in place, making it one of the most lucrative investment destinations in the region and the world.
What does it mean to have vision?
It means having clear insight and living in the present [so as] to build the future.
How does it feel to be a role model for girls and women throughout the region?
I must confess [it is] a bit scary. But it is a responsibility that I hold with pride and [it] will always encourage me to achieve more.
What is the most important life lesson you have learned?
One needs to prioritise. My family has been and always will be my top priority despite having other businesses, social service obligations and responsibilities.
What is the most important business lesson you have learned?
Consistency in pursuing one’s goals and the need to periodically asses these goals.
What is it about Sheikha Hanadi that you would like our readers to know?
I am before anything else a mother and a wife. I get my inspiration to achieve from my children and [I have a] strong desire to set an example for them.
How would you define luxury?
Luxury is elusive. It is the ability to enjoy the fruits of your efforts knowing that you have done all you can. Of course, I am never sure of what that is since I think there is always more to be done.
How would you define wealth?
By quoting author Any Rand, “Wealth is the product of man's capacity to think.” Thus wealth is not only a monetary term, it is one’s heritage, knowledge and aspiration.
If you had a personal motto what would it be?
Failure is only a call to start again. Success is not easy; it takes a lot of effort and will to achieve it. It takes many failures to achieve success.
