When life presents opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone, it’s a chance to redefine what’s possible. Nadeesha A Watawala’s journey is an inspiring testament to courage, resilience, and an unyielding belief in the power of self-transformation.
Nadeesha A Watawala: Taking a Leap of Faith
Twelve years ago, Nadeesha was offered a senior managerial role in a department where he had no prior experience. It was a daunting prospect, but his CEO’s trust in his abilities was the spark he needed. Rising to the occasion, he turned the struggling department into a thriving success story, rewriting its fate and proving to himself that he could achieve greatness.
This pivotal moment laid the foundation for a remarkable journey that would take him from a traditional corporate environment to the entrepreneurial heights he enjoys today.
A Life-Changing Decision in Dubai
Arriving in Dubai was a transformative experience for Nadeesha. In just a few hours, he knew that this vibrant city was the place where his dreams would take flight. The energy of the people, the visionary leadership of the UAE, and the culture of constant innovation inspired him to step out of his comfort zone.
Every interaction in Dubai reinforced his belief that he had made the right choice. The city’s relentless ambition and drive gave him the confidence to pursue his dreams boldly, leaving behind the safety of a fixed income for the thrill of entrepreneurship.
The AED 500 Lesson
For 20 years, Nadeesha enjoyed the security of a salaried job, complete with the perks of a senior C-suite leader. But his entrepreneurial journey began with earning just AED 500 from a minor project. While the amount was small, its significance was immense.
That modest sum was a beacon, showing him the brighter horizon ahead. It was the proof he needed that betting on himself was the right move. It was this first step that fueled his journey toward creating a legacy of his own.
From Corporate Comfort to Entrepreneurial Challenge
Transitioning to entrepreneurship was not easy. Nadeesha had to leave behind the perks of a plush office, a team of 600+ employees, and the security of a corporate safety net. Instead, he found himself navigating a world of uncertainty, doing everything on his own.
Despite the challenges, he embraced the change. Building his own support systems and staying agile allowed him to overcome obstacles and thrive in an environment where nothing was guaranteed.
Leading Two Thriving Businesses
Today, Nadeesha co-leads two successful ventures:
- Metaphase Global FZC LLC, a full-scale consultancy specializing in company formations, compliance, taxation, marketing, and market expansion.
- Uptima Travel and Tourism LLC, a bespoke travel and tourism enterprise backed by the renowned Acorn Group, which operates in six countries and continues to grow.
But he’s not stopping there. Nadeesha plans to expand his entrepreneurial footprint by co-building and scaling three more partnerships in the next 18 months, spanning five business domains across the Gulf region.
Inspired by Leadership
A major source of inspiration for Nadeesha is the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
One story in particular resonates deeply with him: the comparison of the gazelle and the lion. It taught him that success isn’t about being the strongest but about being agile and adaptable. This perspective has guided him in making bold moves and embracing challenges.
Lessons in Resilience
Nadeesha’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. He acknowledges that challenges and failures are inevitable, but they are also valuable lessons. Every failure, he believes, is a cost paid toward achieving greater success.
This mindset helps him remain grounded and focused, even when things go south. By managing expectations and preparing for possible setbacks, he ensures that failures don’t deter him from his larger goals.
A Decade-Old Lesson
One of the most important lessons Nadeesha learned came from a superior almost a decade ago: people are unpredictable and thrive best when given the freedom to be themselves. Initially, he resisted this idea, but he eventually realized its profound truth.
By allowing others to work in their unique ways, he discovered that perfection is not a monopoly but a collaborative effort. This approach has been instrumental in his leadership style, fostering innovation and trust within his teams.
Redefining Success
Nadeesha’s definition of success has evolved over the years. Early in his career, he believed it was about extracting every reward from the system. Now, he views success as being a catalyst, an enabler, and the bigger person in every situation.
This shift in perspective has allowed him to focus on creating value for others, building lasting relationships, and pursuing goals that align with his personal and professional growth.
The Road Ahead
Nadeesha’s journey is far from over. With ambitious plans to expand his ventures and make a lasting impact, he continues to inspire those around him. His story is a reminder that life’s greatest rewards often come from taking the road less traveled and believing in one’s own potential.
As he leads with passion and purpose, Nadeesha proves that the gift of life lies in embracing the unknown, overcoming challenges, and creating a legacy that inspires others to dream big. Do follow him on Instagram.
