Asmaa Quorrich

The founder & CEO of Zaaz Wellness & Beauty, and CEO of Think Big Consulting describes her journey from working as the CMO of a Fortune 500 company to becoming an shepreneur

How do you typically start your day?
I start my day like any typical mum. I wake up at 6am, wake my kids and get them ready for school. That is the most important time in my day as I get to spend time with them. From them on, it's all about gym, breakfast and meetings. Often, I try to read business articles before stepping out of the house, but that depends on how my morning meetings are scheduled.
Describe you work in a sentence?
My work is eventful, exciting and busy.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
Speaking to people about the job! It's been a crazy albeit rewarding journey so far, and I love telling people how much I enjoy it all. It is the first time I have taken on an entrepreneurial role - I'm loving it so far.
What has been your most challenging experience and how did you resolve it?
Making a complete shift in careers. I switched from the corporate world, as CMO of a Fortune 500 company, to becoming an entrepreneur! Dealing with funding issues and contractors, while trying to remain positive and focused through it all was tough but I have learned so much through the journey, and there is still so much more to learn. Instead of dwelling on the problem, be solution-driven and find alternate ways to best achieve your goals.

What advice would you give your younger self, if you could?
Have more fun, life is too short.
How do you maintain a work:life balance?
I try to take frequent breaks and spend as much time with my kids as possible, especially on weekends. It is important for working parents to remember never to work during family time.
Any advice for youngsters who are just getting into the professional arena?
Get into a professional field you are passionate about and work hard at it. Learn along the way, and ask for help when required; nobody knows everything. Training and experience goes a long way, and is extremely beneficial before you embark on a personal entrepreneurial project. Another important thing is taking risks. It can be scary, but also unbelievably exciting and rewarding. If we do not take risks, we will never discover what is out there and limit ourselves, our learnings, our full potential.
A person you think would make for a good role model - and why?
Oprah Winfrey and my dad. They both overcame so much adversity and difficulties in their lives. They built great things by relying on their inner strength and by never giving up.
What is your greatest dream, professionally?
To be a role model for female entrepreneurs, especially mothers. To run a profitable, growing business would be the obvious answer, but my dream is to touch more lives positively and help every woman celebrate her femininity in a natural way.
-Staff reporter