In the realm of Corporate Sustainability (CS), our Regional CS lead Sama Al Khudairy’s story stands out as a beacon of success and inspiration. We had the opportunity to sit down and have a candid conversation with Sama who shared with us her inspirational journey that started in the healthcare industry and led her to CS.
Can you tell us more about your background and what inspired you to become a CS lead?
From a young age, I've always been driven by a deep passion to help others and make a difference in the world. I used to truly believe it was possible, despite my mother’s attempts to ground me - she would say “One step at a time, you can’t change the whole world”.
Given this drive to help others, it was a no-brainer that I belonged in the healthcare industry and spent my academic career in that field. I was a driven healthcare consultant, and believe that my determination, along with the support of mentors, propelled me up the corporate ladder. I definitely feel my work enabled me to make a difference and help people receive the care they needed. However, after seven years in the field, I felt a yearning for something more— I wanted to know what my real purpose was and find a way to do more. I was lucky to have come across the Corporate Sustainability role which turned my passion for helping others into my full-time career path; I was eager to see where it would lead me. It has only been a year but the impact I witnessed and experienced has been extremely heartwarming.
Taking on the role of Regional Lead of Corporate Sustainability with a network of passionate colleagues and supportive leaders, I was able to help drive sustainability throughout our firm. Through collaborations, partnerships, and aligning with territory visions, I unlocked my full purpose in the role and helped colleagues also find their passion to give back to our communities and environment.
What are some challenges that you’ve faced along your journey?
Throughout my professional journey, I learned the importance of setting boundaries. I started prioritising my health and created a schedule that worked for me — daily workouts, managing work schedules , and keeping a support system.
Who has been your number one supporter?
Staying connected with my family is an integral part of my life that keeps me grounded and provides me with a strong support system. At work, I also find great value in staying connected to, and seeking guidance from, my coach and mentors. We are lucky to have various mentorship programmes at PwC Middle East that offer new insights and learning techniques.
What’s one advice you can share with the younger generation?
Make the most of every opportunity and stay open to feedback along the way. Feedback provides a great opportunity for growth and learning - whether it’s learning about your area of expertise or about yourself. It's important to remember that constructive criticism is not personal and is given with the intention of helping you improve. Embrace feedback as a valuable tool for development and use it to your advantage. I think people may be surprised at what they’re capable of achieving when they keep an open mind and have an appetite for self-improvement.
