In today’s fast-paced world, navigating career changes while staying true to one’s passion is no easy feat. Yet, for Soha Chahine, Founder of Forward Training & Consulting and the Regional Lead for the Resilience at Work (R@W), embracing the unexpected has become the cornerstone of her success. Her journey from marketing specialist to an Operations Manager to a prominent figure in the HR and coaching and training world is a story of growth, resilience, and unwavering dedication to empowering others.
Embracing People Over Processes: The HR Revelation
Soha’s career trajectory is as diverse as it is inspiring. She began her professional journey in Lebanon in marketing, a field she later realized wasn’t her true calling. Her work took her to Kuwait, where she managed projects, and later to Dubai, where she started as a temporary background screener and eventually rose to the position of an Operations Manager. It was in this role that Soha had a pivotal realization: “No strategy could succeed without truly understanding and empowering people.”
Leading diverse teams, she discovered that success went beyond processes and strategies. It was about connecting with individuals, recognizing their unique strengths, and creating environments where they could thrive. This newfound passion for people development led her to pursue a career in Human Resources, marking a turning point that shaped her future.
A Passion for Growth: Coaching and Training
Soha’s transition into HR was driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. She dove into coaching and training, motivated by the belief that her true passion lay in helping people grow, not just professionally but also personally. “I wanted to create environments where people feel empowered, understood, and equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace,” Soha explains.
Her coaching philosophy focuses on fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and agility in leaders, skills that are increasingly essential in today’s ever-changing work environment.
Overcoming Challenges: The Pandemic’s Impact on Her Career
Like many, Soha faced significant setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Losing her job was a sudden blow, but she chose to view it as a “blank canvas” — an opportunity to reassess her career path. Instead of dwelling on the loss, she used the experience as a springboard to deepen her skills in coaching and training, stepping fully into a space where she could make a real difference.
This decision proved to be a turning point, reinforcing the idea that setbacks can be transformative if one chooses to see them as opportunities for growth. Soha’s approach to adversity emphasizes adaptability and continuous learning, qualities that have helped her thrive in an unpredictable world.
Building Something New: A Boutique Consultancy and Upcoming Book
Soha’s entrepreneurial spirit came to life with the launch of her own boutique training and consultancy firm, challenging conventional approaches to talent development. Her work is centered around creating people-focused strategies that drive organizational growth, emphasizing the importance of human connection in business success.
One of her most anticipated projects is a book co-authored with Ghenwa Habbal, set to launch this December. The book aims to redefine talent management and inspire organizations to rethink how they cultivate success. Although the details of the book are still under wraps, Soha is confident it will spark a positive revolution in the field.
Learning from Mentors: A Blend of Influences
Throughout her career, Soha has been shaped by the wisdom of mentors, coaches, and leaders who have positively impacted her journey. She credits these influences for helping her develop a unique approach to leadership that combines empathy, adaptability, and strategic thinking.
“I’ve learned to take the best traits and insights from those I’ve admired and use them to refine my own style,” she says. This blend of influences has enabled her to lead, coach, and connect with others in meaningful ways, setting her apart in the field of talent development.
The Power of Embracing Change
Soha’s approach to life and career is grounded in a mindset of growth and resilience. She views change not as an obstacle but as a catalyst for innovation and learning. “Challenges remind me that I’m growing and evolving,” she reflects. For Soha, setbacks are not setbacks at all; they are opportunities to rethink, reset, and emerge stronger.
This philosophy is evident in how she leads her consultancy and coaches others, always with an eye on future possibilities and a readiness to pivot when needed. Her story serves as a reminder that success is not a linear path, but a series of learning experiences that shape who we become.
Redefining Success: Shifting from Achievement to Impact
Soha’s understanding of success has evolved over the years. While early in her career, she measured success by hitting targets and climbing the corporate ladder, today she sees it as making a lasting impact. “It’s about helping people unlock their potential, guiding organizations to adapt and thrive, and building something that makes a difference long after I’m gone,” she explains.
Her goal is to leave behind a legacy of transformation, where organizations view leadership and resilience through a more empathetic lens. As a catalyst for change, Soha aims to reshape how businesses think about talent management and leadership development.
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
Reflecting on her journey, Soha offers valuable advice to those starting their careers: “Embrace uncertainty and trust the process. Don’t rush, take the time to learn, and don’t be afraid to pivot.” She also emphasizes the importance of building connections and cultivating resilience, as these qualities will open doors to unexpected opportunities.
Soha Chahine’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of human connection. Her journey from marketing to HR, through challenges and achievements, is a testament to the idea that embracing change and empowering people can lead to profound personal and professional growth.
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