In the fast-paced and fiercely competitive world of real estate, only the bold survive. But what happens when a woman who once found herself lost in life’s uncertainties rises to the top? Dr. Aysha Ehsan, a powerhouse in the Dubai real estate market, is not only breaking barriers but shattering expectations. With an unwavering determination inspired by none other than Lara Croft, Dr. Aysha Ehsan has carved her name in the world of business, academia, and personal development. But how did a girl who once shied away from the spotlight transform into a trailblazer? This is the story of Dr. Aysha Ehsan.
A Hero’s Beginning: The Lara Croft Moment
Dr. Aysha Ehsan’s journey started with an unlikely source of inspiration: Lara Croft from the film Tomb Raider. Growing up introverted and shy, she found herself fascinated by Croft’s fearlessness, strength, and determination. The character became a symbol for her, representing the woman she aspired to be. Dr. Aysha Ehsan channeled this newfound inner strength to navigate the various stages of her career, whether it was in journalism, teaching, or real estate. She used that resilience to face every challenge head-on, turning her fear into fuel for success.
This fearless spirit guided Dr. Aysha Ehsan through what would become a whirlwind career. In her words, “Lara Croft’s fearlessness motivated me to step out of my comfort zone and face challenges head-on. Whether it was pitching a story, engaging a classroom full of students, or negotiating a deal, I learned to channel that fierce spirit”.
The Accidental Entry into Real Estate
While Dr. Aysha Ehsan’s success may seem inevitable in hindsight, her entry into the real estate industry was far from planned. Like many, she faced a series of unfortunate events that culminated in her joining the world of property sales. After losing her job due to the pandemic and being scammed by a real estate agent, Dr. Aysha Ehsan found herself jobless and homeless. But instead of giving up, she turned to a mentor who suggested she try real estate—a move that would change her life.
Dr. Aysha Ehsan’s first two years in real estate were nothing short of grueling. “The amount of embarrassment, rejection, mockery, and frustration I faced in my first two years was enough to break any sane human being,” she recalls. But break she did not. The resilience she had developed throughout her life enabled her to push through the hardships. She eventually found her stride, discovering a passion for real estate that went beyond sales—it was about helping people find their homes.
Climbing the Ladder: From Struggles to Success
After her initial struggles, Dr. Aysha Ehsan began to make her mark. Her previous experience in teaching helped her hone the interpersonal skills needed to thrive in real estate. She realized that her ability to connect with people was one of her greatest strengths. This self-awareness enabled her to switch from working with brokers to becoming a Sales Manager for VA Properties, a renowned real estate developer in Dubai.
This role provided her with the independence she had always craved. Dr. Aysha Ehsan now had the opportunity to be her own boss and measure success on her own terms. “In real estate, I have the privilege of being my own boss, where success or failure directly reflects the effort I invest,” she says. Her drive and determination paid off as she quickly rose through the ranks, earning recognition not just in Dubai but across the industry.
Accolades and Achievements
Dr. Aysha Ehsan’s hard work did not go unnoticed. Among her many accolades, she was named one of the Top 50 Most Influential Women in Dubai in 2023 and one of the Top 100 Women Power Leaders. Additionally, her love of writing led her to publish a novel, which earned her the prestigious Golden Visa in the UAE. But for Dr. Aysha Ehsan, these tangible rewards pale in comparison to the personal growth she’s experienced along the way.
“The most significant achievement is the personal growth I’ve experienced—especially in my people skills,” she explains. These skills have allowed her to build meaningful relationships and navigate the often-complex world of real estate with grace and confidence.
Lessons Learned and Looking Forward
Over the years, Dr. Aysha Ehsan has learned many important lessons that have shaped her approach to life and work. The most critical lesson? Consistency. “Consistency, consistency, consistency! I can use this mantra all day, and it still would not be enough. Nothing worthwhile has ever been achieved unless you have given your sweat and blood,” she says. Her ability to persevere, no matter how tough the situation, is a testament to her strong work ethic and unrelenting drive.
As she continues to thrive in her career, Dr. Aysha Ehsan has her eyes set on the future. Her ultimate goal? Professional independence and financial success. But beyond that, she wants to help others achieve their goals. As a professor of leadership, she firmly believes in the power of mentorship. “Real leadership is only endorsed when you pass on your wealth of knowledge to a seeker who then outperforms the mentor,” she says.
The Legacy of Dr. Aysha Ehsan
What legacy does Dr. Aysha Ehsan hope to leave behind? In her own words, “I have always strived to be unforgettable. In that quest, what I learned is that you can achieve this with authenticity”. Dr. Aysha Ehsan’s career is built on this principle. By embracing her genuine self, she has not only succeeded in her own right but has inspired others to do the same.
Ultimately, Dr. Aysha Ehsan’s story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering determination. From her humble beginnings to her current role as a Sales Manager, she has shown that with the right mindset, any obstacle can be overcome. Her journey is proof that sometimes, the most successful careers are the ones that happen by accident—but they’re driven by purpose.
With a career that continues to flourish, there’s no doubt that Dr. Aysha Ehsan will keep breaking barriers and inspiring others along the way. And like Lara Croft, her childhood hero, Dr. Aysha Ehsan is a force to be reckoned with—unstoppable, resilient, and ever-evolving.
