Reine Metlej’s story is one of resilience, passion, and transformation. A self-made entrepreneur, business consultant, and trainer, she is the embodiment of determination and success, having built her career from the ground up despite facing numerous challenges. From battling doubts about women’s abilities to overcoming personal and professional setbacks, Reine’s journey is a testament to the power of self-belief, optimism, and perseverance.
Reine Metlej: A Turning Point Fueled by Doubt
The moment Reine encountered doubt about women’s potential became a defining moment in her life. As a young woman striving to make a mark in a male-dominated field, she felt compelled to prove that women are not only capable of achieving greatness but also have the power to lead and make an impact. This moment of doubt ignited a fire within her, motivating her to break barriers and defy expectations.
“I realized that the doubt others had about women’s abilities could either hold me back or fuel me to push forward. I chose to use it as a driving force to show that women can excel in any field,” says Reine.
From Engineering to Entrepreneurship: A Shift in Focus
Reine’s academic background in civil and environmental engineering played a crucial role in shaping her career. Initially, she pursued a master’s degree in civil engineering, but her true passion lay in sustainability and environmental matters. Her focus gradually shifted towards environmental consulting, where she found her calling.
Unexpectedly, Reine’s journey took a turn when she ventured into entrepreneurship. While pursuing her business ventures, she also found herself becoming a trainer for other entrepreneurs and a business consultant, helping startups navigate the challenges of building and scaling their businesses.
“My career started in a completely different direction, but I embraced the opportunities that came my way. It was a learning curve, but it was one I was eager to take on,” she shares.
Overcoming Adversity: A Resilient Spirit
Reine’s professional journey was not without its hurdles. She began her career at a tumultuous time in Lebanon, where the country was grappling with political unrest, a financial crisis, and the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the external difficulties, Reine remained focused on her goals and was determined to build a future for herself.
“My early years were challenging. Lebanon was going through a revolution, and on top of that, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. But I trusted that my hard work would pay off, and that perseverance would eventually lead to success,” Reine explains.
Having worked since she was 17, Reine understood the value of dedication and resilience. She stayed committed to her vision, even when the path seemed unclear, and never gave up on her dreams.
The Power of Self-Motivation and Faith
Reine credits her younger self as one of her greatest sources of inspiration. Without a specific role model to look up to, she focused on nurturing and protecting her inner self, pushing herself to honor her ambitions and dreams. This self-motivation, combined with a strong sense of faith, has been a guiding force throughout her career.
“I didn’t have anyone to show me the way, so I became my own role model. I learned to protect and honor my inner self and to keep pushing, no matter how tough things got,” she says.
Reine also emphasizes the importance of optimism in overcoming obstacles. Her unwavering belief that every challenge carries a lesson keeps her grounded and focused on her goals.
“I find strength in every setback, and I see every challenge as an opportunity for growth. I believe that God is guiding my path, and that helps me stay optimistic,” she shares.
Learning from Setbacks: A Valuable Lesson in Growth
Not everything in Reine’s career has gone according to plan. One of the most significant setbacks she faced was a failed partnership in her startup. This experience taught her valuable lessons about trust, collaboration, and the importance of surrounding herself with people who support her vision.
“Not everyone will understand or support your journey. Some may even try to dim your light, but that’s often because of their own insecurities. I learned not to blame myself when others struggled with my success,” she reflects.
This lesson reinforced her belief in herself and helped her embrace the idea that success doesn’t always come from external validation. “I don’t need others to recognize my worth. What matters is that I believe in myself, no matter what others think,” she adds.
Defining Success on Her Own Terms
In the past, Reine measured success by the awards and accolades she received, such as being named to Forbes 30 Under 30. While these achievements are meaningful, her definition of success has evolved over time.
“Success, for me, is no longer about the certificates, awards, or titles. It’s about the impact I make in every project I take on. It’s about leaving a lasting mark and helping others build their dream businesses,” Reine explains.
This shift in perspective has allowed her to focus on what truly matters — creating positive change and empowering others to succeed.
Advice for the Younger Generation
Looking back on her journey, Reine shares advice for those who are just starting out. “Be patient, step outside your comfort zone, and always believe that the impossible is possible. There were times when I thought things would never work out, but now I know that perseverance and faith lead to success,” she says.
Her journey has been a reminder that even the most challenging experiences can be stepping stones to success. “I’ve learned that the road to success isn’t always smooth, but it’s worth it when you stay true to yourself,” Reine reflects.
Empowering Others: Leaving a Lasting Legacy
As Reine looks to the future, her goal is to continue empowering others. She hopes to inspire future generations to pursue their passions and create a lasting impact. “I want to be remembered as someone who helped others on their journey and encouraged them to believe in themselves,” she says.
Reine’s journey is one of growth, resilience, and empowerment. From overcoming adversity to becoming a respected business consultant, she has shown that success is not about the challenges you face, but how you respond to them. She has built a legacy of inspiration that will continue to motivate others for years to come.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Empowerment
Reine Metlej’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is not about the hurdles we face, but how we rise above them. From her humble beginnings to becoming a leading consultant and trainer, Reine’s story is one of resilience, hard work, and an unwavering belief in herself. Through her work, she continues to empower others to chase their dreams and make an impact, one project at a time. Do follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn
Iftar Time Today: A Spiritual Guide to Breaking Fast in the UAE
