Farai Mwashita: Customer Experience Consultant | Chartered Mechanical Engineer

Dear 2024,

Let’s take it back to one extremely cold UK winter evening inJanuary of 2024 when I messaged my sisters’ WhatsApp group chats “It’s so cold, I am sitting here manifesting and putting in work to relocate to the Middle East again”. As I sit here in the warmth of the Saudi sun, I can hardly believe how far I’ve come since that chilly winter evening in 2024. At that moment, I was filled with a mix of hope and determination, knowing that I was ready to take the leap and manifest my dreams. Little did I know that within just a few months, I would be living and working in a region that has not only embraced me but has also provided me with incredible opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

For one to succeed and thrive in this industry (in life) you need more than hard work. Opportunity, cheerleaders, mentors, sponsors and mindset are key major attributes to this. “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not, and the real hard work starts the moment you receive the opportunity”. As I navigated the complexities of the engineering landscape, I encountered various challenges that tested my resolve and determination. Each obstacle became a learning opportunity, prompting me to hone my skills and expand my knowledge. I learned to embrace discomfort and uncertainty, understanding that true growth often lies just outside one’s comfort zone.

Throughout this journey, I have been fortunate to encounter incredible mentors and allies who believed in my potential. Their guidance and support were invaluable, helping me to refine my technical skills and develop the confidence to assert my voice in a predominantly male environment. I realized that success is not a solo endeavor; it thrives in a community that fosters collaboration and celebration of diversity.

Being a DE&I champion has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. I took it upon myself to advocate for underrepresented voices in engineering, launching initiatives aimed at mentoring young women and minorities. I organized workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, creating a platform where we could share our experiences and empower each other. Witnessing the impact of these initiatives on aspiring engineers has been truly rewarding and has reinforced my belief in the power of community.

As I transitioned from a graduate engineer to a senior engineer and relocated from the UK to the Middle East, I quickly discovered that while the challenges I faced were the same, they were often framed within a different context and time zone. Regardless of the geographical shift, the essence of my journey remained rooted in the determination to prove my worth and to be a positive change agent in a field where being a minority often necessitates demonstrating competence and challenging misconceptions.

Here are some key nuggets that have empowered me to thrive in the engineering sector in the Middle East:

1. Higher Qualifications

In this region, advanced degrees and professional qualifications, such as a master’s degree or Charted Engineer status, are highly regarded. While not mandatory, these credentials have undeniably opened doors for me and my colleagues, facilitating our ascent to senior positions and enabling us to negotiate more competitive salaries. If pursuing a master’s degree isn’t on your immediate agenda, consider enrolling in a recognized leadership course (like those offered by Harvard or ILM). Such qualifications signal your commitment to professional growth and can enhance your profile in a competitive job market.

2. Networking and Socializing

Networking is crucial, both professionally and personally. I cannot stress enough the importance of attending in-person industry events. My time in Dubai allowed me to forge invaluable relationships that blossomed into friendships and led to job referrals. Embracing the social scene, I became a “yes person,” accepting nearly all invitations. This openness was my gateway to building a community and embracing the vibrant lifestyle of the city. Over the years, I learned to be selective about my engagements, focusing on nurturing deeper connections with those who truly enrich my life. The family I’ve created here in Dubai is one of the greatest gifts I could have imagined.

3. Self-Belief

You are exactly where you’re meant to be. It took time for me to fully accept that relocating to Saudi Arabia was a manifestation of my hard work and aspirations. Even when faced with self-doubt upon receiving my job offer, I reminded myself that I had earned this opportunity, and it was mine to seize. Cultivating an unwavering belief in myself has been essential; I advocate for speaking your desires into existence and being specific about your goals—the universe is always listening.

4. Authenticity

Being true to myself has been a cornerstone of my journey. Authenticity means embracing my strengths and weaknesses, holding myself accountable, and being vulnerable in my interactions. By fostering genuine connections, I’ve been able to impact my colleagues and community positively. Authenticity breeds trust, and trust is the foundation of any successful relationship.

5. Curiosity

Curiosity is a powerful catalyst for growth, both personally and professionally. By nurturing a desire to learn and adapt, I have continuously expanded my horizons. Staying open-minded, challenging my assumptions, and embracing new experiences have been instrumental in my development. Curiosity has allowed me to uncover new perspectives and drive innovation in my work.

As I reflect on 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped my life and career. Whether it was the memorable family trip to Marrakesh, celebrating the births of my niece and nephew, my birthday adventure in Italy, or my relocation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia —each accomplishment, each setback, and each relationship forged has contributed to the tapestry of my life. The challenges I faced have only fueled my determination to succeed and to lift others along the way. Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate making more lifelong connections and exploring the rich cultures of the Middle East, particularly in Jordan.

May we all continue to pursue our dreams with passion, resilience, and an unwavering belief in our potential. Whether it’s through education, networking, or simply believing in oneself, every step taken brings you closer to your aspirations

As you begin to outline your goals for 2025, I encourage you to not only compile your “to-do list” but also to create a “to-be list.” Be intentional with your aspirations and remember that growth is as much about who you become as what you achieve.