Shamsa Al Sharif, a trailblazer in the UAE’s social media scene, has grown from being the first social media influencer in the country to an accomplished entrepreneur. Her journey from influencer to businesswoman is a testament to her resilience, vision, and desire for independence. In this article, we delve into Shamsa’s inspiring career, from her early days in media to becoming a prominent figure in entrepreneurship.
Early Life and the Impact of Social Media
In 2007, Shamsa became a pioneer in the UAE’s social media landscape by launching a mailing list, a blog, and using a dedicated Blackberry to engage with her followers. This unexpected role as the first social media influencer in the UAE significantly shaped her future. Her growing online presence attracted attention from influential figures, including her former boss, who followed her blog, and a client he consulted with. By 2012, as the social media era progressed, these connections paved the way for a position in the UAE Government, marking the beginning of her professional journey. Although she had a background in media, her expertise in the then-nascent field of social media set her apart, eventually leading her to transition into entrepreneurship.
The Shift to Entrepreneurship
After years in semi-government and government roles, Shamsa made a life-changing decision: she left the corporate world to focus on building her own ventures. Her desire for more work-life balance and the ability to control her own wealth drove her to take this bold step. Entrepreneurship offered her the freedom she sought and allowed her to pursue new challenges on her terms.
“I wanted more freedom and the ability to build something of my own,” Shamsa says, reflecting on her decision to quit her government job and step into entrepreneurship. Her journey as a business owner has been fueled by a passion for creativity and innovation, particularly in the realms of fashion and investment.
Major Achievements
Over the years, Shamsa has accumulated a range of accolades that highlight her professional and personal achievements. She has won numerous academic and professional awards, but one of her proudest moments was receiving the Alumnae Role Model Award, presented by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak. She also received the Abu Dhabi Industrial Award for Academic Achievement. Additionally, she was honored with the Al Owais Award as a blogger, a testament to her influence in the UAE’s digital space, and was recognized multiple times by the Dubai Media Office. Shamsa was also a founding member of the Dubai Press Club for influencers.
These awards are not just markers of personal success but also milestones in her career, representing the significant impact she has made in both media and business. Each accomplishment brings her closer to her long-term goal of building her own empire.
She also worked in UAE government as social media expert in General secretariat of the cabinet and project manager in UAE government media office & Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum global initiatives and was producer of studio 71 and UAE coolest winter campaign and also worked she have 14 years experience in media and social media
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkDHaSwI5JQlW6e9YCFDO3KXueoiJNhoR&si=I-dwuRFxKV9aWixx
Current Projects
Shamsa is a fitness enthusiast and an avid collector of watches and bags. In 2020, she expanded her interests by adding travel to her list of passions, visiting over 50 countries with plans to explore the entire world. Shamsa turned her hobbies into thriving businesses, including @the.collectors.club, an exclusive club for collectors where she connects brands with clients through curated events. She also founded @SASmgmt, a social media, events, production, and consulting company that leverages her 14+ years of experience in social media to help clients achieve their goals. Her love for fashion led her to launch her fashion line, @chouchoubys, and she is soon to introduce an activewear brand, @wamca_. Additionally, she has plans to venture into travel and tourism projects in the near future.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Like any entrepreneur, Shamsa has faced her fair share of challenges. One of the most significant setbacks she encountered was in the stock and crypto markets, where she lost money. This experience taught her that not every investment is a good fit, and it shifted her focus toward areas where she felt more confident.
“I learned that stocks and crypto are not for me,” she admits candidly. This realization allowed her to narrow her focus to areas where she excels, like fashion and real estate, and to continue growing her entrepreneurial ventures.
Staying Motivated and Inspired
In times of difficulty, Shamsa looks up to the UAE’s leaders, who have always been a source of inspiration. Their vision, drive, and ability to overcome obstacles keep her motivated. “Our UAE leaders inspire me to keep pushing forward,” she says.
Her outlook on challenges is also influenced by her belief that every problem has a solution. “I remind myself that setbacks are temporary and that solutions are always within reach if you stay focused,” Shamsa adds, showcasing her positive mindset.
The Meaning of Success
For Shamsa, success is not just about wealth or professional achievements; it’s about a holistic balance between health, wealth, freedom, and happiness. Over the years, her definition of success has evolved to encompass a more well-rounded approach to life.
“Success to me is having health, wealth, freedom, and happiness,” she says, a philosophy that shapes her career choices and personal goals. This approach ensures that she stays grounded and focused on what truly matters in her life and business.
Advice to Her Younger Self
Looking back, Shamsa wishes she had understood the importance of investing earlier in her career. “I would tell my younger self to stop buying brands and handbags and start investing,” she says with a laugh. She also emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and being proactive in building wealth.
“Opportunities come only once in your life—use them, and never say no,” Shamsa advises, sharing a piece of wisdom for younger entrepreneurs and professionals looking to make their mark.
