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Award Winning Business Advisor & General Counsel to MNCs operating across MENA & Emerging Markets | Advisory Board Member | Mentor | Storyteller | Speaker | Disability Advocate | Rare Disease Caregiver | Founder 🧬♿️🌻
Being open about my caregiver part of my life within the legal world has been… interesting, to say the least. Let’s say that in our field, people often (if not always) expect a polished, no-distractions persona, almost as if we leave our personal lives at the door. But for me, caregiving isn’t something I can just put aside — it’s woven into who I am. Some days, sharing that part of my life feels like I’m taking a risk. It’s fascinating to see the reactions: there are colleagues who genuinely appreciate it, who understand that balancing a demanding career with caregiving isn’t a weakness but an absolute strength. They trust me with decisions given the values I strongly stand for, and some even shared personal part of their lives with me that I feel privileged to learn more about. They see the resilience, the empathy, and the discipline that this role brings to my work. But then, there are those who make it clear — subtly or not — that they’d rather I kept that part of my life quiet. It’s as though being open about caregiving somehow disrupts the “ideal” legal professional image. Sometimes I feel like I’m outed for it, as if it’s a limitation rather than an experience that shapes my perspective and resilience. Yet, I’m learning that this authenticity is non-negotiable for me. Being a caregiver shapes every part of my life, including my work. And if there’s a chance my openness can break a stereotype or change one mind in our community, then it’s worth it. Recently, I took few days off and spoke at the first Law Ninjas Middle East GC Summit, and for once, it felt like a space where authenticity was embraced, and I an not alone. Rohan and the team did an amazing job where the event wasn’t just another polished networking scene; it was raw, real, and made sense for so many lawyers like myself. We had a Rock N Roll theme for the event dress code — if you have lawyers in your community, you’ll know it’s a thing. 😎🎸 And people who attended, networked or even spoke on stage like I did, both shared stories that weren’t just about wins or titles but about navigating challenges, balancing personal and professional lives, and staying true to what actually matters. It was finally an event that reminded me how impactful it can be to stand in your truth. People who don’t pivot and challenge the status quo rarely make history or a meaningful impact on what’s around them. And to me, that kind of impact isn’t measured by trophies or awards. It’s in those moments of honesty, in breaking expectations and staying true to what matters — that’s where real change begins. And maybe, just maybe, that’s what will leave a mark that truly counts for a world where everyone can thrive — a world without barriers, one that’s better, brighter, equitable, accessible, and fairer for all. 🧬♿️🌻 #TheCaregiverLawyer #DisabilityInclusion #DiversityMatters #EquityMatters #AccessibilityMatters #BeAnAlly #InclusionMatters #LessonsLearnt #CaregiverAND The Yusr Project