"Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it," simple, yet powerful words once said by the late Nelson Mandela. In the UAE, courage has become the central force, which seems to be taking Emirati men and women by storm, allowing them to achieve their goals and dreams in the epic, yet inspirational world of young entrepreneurs.
Striving for passion, rather than profit is something that most, if not all entrepreneurs aim for. Key elements that hold them together are the vision, determination and the drive for self-improvement. They often rise, yet often fall, and yet again, they seem to rise back up, as if they never fell before.
Afra Al Dhaheri, founder of Cloud 9 Pet Hotel and Care, the first luxury pet hotel in the UAE, told Khaleej Times that passion is key to success. "I have always been a passionate advocate for animal welfare," she said, adding that, "I wanted to create opportunities for change in the treatment of animals in the UAE."
Having the will to create a difference in her community, rather than working simply based on a profitable business, is something the young Emirati woman aspired and wished to focus on. Moreover, being an animal lover herself, it only felt natural to create something that solidifies her own vision.
"I decided to make my vision of a place where all animals can feel safe, welcome, and cared for, a reality. I want to help educate people on the importance of animal welfare, and through Cloud 9, I feel I am making a contribution to the local community, and to the UAE," she pointed out.
The luxurious pet hotel offers various facilities and services for pets staying in the hotel, including veterinary care, training, boarding and grooming. "We are a facility where pets will be taken care of and made to feel like they are at home, even when their owners are away. We are also committed to creating a culture that respects and cares for animals, while educating the community about the importance of animal rights and animal welfare."
Since opening in 2012, Al Dhaheri's booming business has been in constant demand. "The business is unlike any other in Abu Dhabi," she said, adding that, "as a result, business is good. Clients are satisfied with the services - we see this daily on social media and in-person when they come to pick up their pets." However, the urge for constant self-improvement also comes into play for Al Dhaheri. "We do not stop wanting to improve. When we see room for improvement or the potential for new opportunities, we take action - developing the business and expanding to meet the demand from the marketplace."
The 28-year-old, who is also the founder of Pet Lovers UAE, a non-profitable organisation that promotes animal rights, believes that having the courage in following one's vision is key. Thus, self-motivation is all that's needed in order to reach what he or she is set out to achieve, despite the number of times one may fall. "If you are passionate and believe in your own ideas then there is nothing that can get in the way of your own success," Al Dhaheri highlighted.
"Don't get put down by people who do not share your vision. You are the only one who needs to believe, to make it a reality."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com
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