Into the future
Entrusted with the role of Chief Pavilions and Exhibitions Officer, at the futuristic Expo 2020 Dubai, Marjan Faraidooni has the responsibility of making sure strategies for development and execution are implemented “It is we women who must support each
have a role to play in making the world a better place. But our impact will not stop there. Expo has been designed with an eye on the future and will evolve into District 2020, maximising Expo’s technological and physical infrastructure to ensure this new city-within-a-city continues to be a significant contributor to the UAE economy long after the six months of Expo 2020.
As a successful woman, and the Chief Pavilions & Exhibitions Officer at Expo 2020 Dubai, in your opinion what does it take to achieve a position like yours?
There are many factors. I have always been committed to ensuring my work is driven by respect and integrity, and I have learnt that it is essential to be flexible and resilient in the face of change, and welcome the challenges brought by it. I’ve mentioned the importance of teamwork and clear, open communication, and I strongly believe in bringing the human touch to the workplace and ensuring a healthy work-life balance for myself and my team. I’m always looking for ways in which I can support. For example, pre-COVID, I would surprise my team with lunches – either to celebrate milestones or share our concerns and issues. No matter how much pressure we’re facing, I make sure we find time to laugh and enjoy ourselves in the process.
During the COVID pandemic, my team’s wellbeing was – and continues to be – of critical importance, sometimes even more than their deliverables. Everyone has been getting by in very challenging situations, but each person’s circumstances are unique. We maintain regular contact via Webex meetings, and I make sure to bring the team together for updates on what is happening, talking through issues to do with their wellbeing, and making sure they have the opportunity to voice concerns.
What is your advice to young individuals aspiring to become successful in their respective fields?
Work hard with the highest level of integrity, stay ambitious, and be committed to every task, no matter how small. Be adaptable and flexible, because change is inevitable – as the saying goes, it’s the one constant in life! Keep your sense of wonder – learn every day, ask questions, seek advice, and opportunities to develop yourself professionally and personally.
Part of empowering women comes from top-down recognition of women’s capabilities, talents, and the value we bring to the workplace and women must be provided with equal opportunities for jobs in different sectors.
However, ultimately it is we women who must support each other, lift each other, and always have each other’s back. Those of us who have achieved positions in leadership must take on that responsibility, be role models, and identify opportunities to mentor colleagues and students.
What is the best way to empower women? What is the best advice you’ve received?
Take it one day and one challenge at a time – and prioritise! Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and demonstrate empathy. This will broaden your perspective, strengthen your relationships, and improve collaboration. Finally, don’t be too hard on yourself! As long as you do your work with the best intentions, it’s OK if, at times, things don’t go the way they were supposed to. View these experiences as lessons you can learn from.