Dr. Mariam Shaikh is a distinguished leader in international education with over 35 years of transformative impact across the Gulf region. Her journey began in the 1980s when she founded a nursery in Ras Al Khaimah, later expanding it into the successful Sunflower Nursery, serving children from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, she has held senior leadership roles at renowned institutions including Heriot-Watt University, Canadian University of Dubai, and Amity University, where she played a pivotal role in shaping academic pathways and bringing global university brands to the UAE.
In 2020, Dr. Mariam founded MS Education Consultants, a boutique advisory firm dedicated to guiding students through university selection, scholarship acquisition, and international admissions. Her strategic mentorship has empowered thousands of young people, including refugee students, to access quality education and global opportunities. She also works closely with UNHCR, supporting scholarship initiatives and contributing to humanitarian causes, and her work in student empowerment has earned her recognition from prestigious organizations, including the Al Jalila Foundation and Forbes Canada.
Beyond education, Dr. Mariam is an influential voice in women’s empowerment, personal branding, and creative expression. She is an Advisory Board Member for Education and Knowledge Excellence at the Woman Business Circle and a sought-after speaker at global forums. Her contributions have been celebrated internationally, with features such as “The Top 10 Indian Personalities of 2024” by ANI News. Dr. Mariam continues to inspire through her advocacy, mentorship, and commitment to shaping future generations
Overcoming Challenges with Compassionate Leadership
Navigating the education sector as a woman leader was not without challenges. From managing a small nursery to leading large K12 schools and transitioning into entrepreneurship, Dr. Mariam Shaikh faced societal expectations and moments of uncertainty. However, she remained authentic and compassionate, leading with empathy and encouraging student-centered values.
Her resilience and belief in cultivating positive habits helped her overcome obstacles and inspired many. She often emphasizes the importance of self-belief, especially during adversity.
Building a Global Education Empire
In 2020, Dr. Mariam Shaikh founded MS Education Consultants, a company dedicated to bridging students worldwide with quality education, scholarships, and global university partnerships. Today, MS Education Consultants serves thousands of students from over 100 nationalities, helping them navigate the complexities of international education.
One of Dr. Mariam Shaikh’s most notable achievements is her instrumental role in establishing branch campuses of globally renowned universities in Dubai, including Heriot-Watt University, Canadian University Dubai, and the University of New Brunswick. These initiatives provide students the opportunity to access international-quality education without leaving their home region, opening doors to global learning for countless aspiring learners.
Dr. Mariam Shaikh is also deeply committed to educational equity, supporting refugees and underprivileged students through scholarships and inclusion programs.
Advocating Holistic Education and Empowerment
For Dr. Mariam Shaikh, education extends beyond academics to include mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. She has championed mental health initiatives in schools and held roles such as Vice President of Student Experience and Chief Happiness Officer to foster inclusive and supportive learning environments.
She is also a passionate mentor for young women, encouraging them to break stereotypes in STEM and entrepreneurship, believing that empowering women shapes a better society.
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Mariam Shaikh’s impactful work has earned her numerous accolades, including being featured by Forbes as an Edupreneur reshaping education globally. She is recognized among the Global 100 Women Power Leaders and was named the Most Empowering Woman in Education for 2025.
Her awards celebrate not only her professional success but her role as a catalyst for positive change in education.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Mariam Shaikh aims to expand MS Education Consultants’ global partnerships, enhance student counseling with a focus on career, emotional, and mental health support, and continue championing access to education for marginalized communities.
Her vision remains clear: education should be a right, not a privilege, empowering students to become confident global citizens.
Lessons from Dr. Mariam Shaikh
Her story reminds us that success is built on persistence, self-belief, and staying true to one’s values. From a small preschool teacher to a global education leader, Dr. Mariam Shaikh shows that with passion and resilience, we can create opportunities for ourselves and others.
She inspires students, educators, and entrepreneurs alike to see education as a powerful tool to empower dreams and bridge cultures.
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