17/07/2026
Last week, I had the privilege of speaking at the Women’s Voices Summit, hosted by Women’s Voices Maldives , on the topic of creativity as a Competitive Edge: How to build it, Protect it, and Use it.
It was an honour to share the panel with Hawla Riza - Heal in Paradise 🐚🇲🇻 and Naf Smilebook as we explored thought provoking questions such as: Where does creativity come from? How do we protect it when life becomes consumed by responsibilities, deadlines, family, and work? And how can creativity become our competitive edge rather than just a hobby?
Drawing from my own journey, I reflected on how creativity has opened doors, helped me navigate challenges, and become one of the greatest strengths I’ve carried throughout my career and life.
Beyond speaking, one of the most meaningful parts of the summit was listening to the experiences of the younger generation. Many shared the barriers they continue to face from age discrimination and gender bias to racial discrimination simply for trying to share their work and their voices.
These conversations reminded me that creativity does not thrive in isolation. It flourishes in environments where people feel seen, encouraged, and valued. If we want innovation, stronger communities, and future leaders to emerge, we must choose compassion over judgment, mentorship over gatekeeping, and support over competition.
Every voice deserves the opportunity to be heard. Sometimes, believing in someone’s potential is the very thing that gives them the confidence to create something extraordinary.