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Dareen Alsaleh

    What do you consider the main achievements in your life?

    I believe that every phase of my life brings its own achievements. However, the one that stands out the most is my decision to leave engineering and pursue a career in aviation. Choosing to enter such a male-dominated industry was a bold step, and I’m proud to say that I became one of the pioneering female commercial pilots in Saudi Arabia. This achievement not only marked a significant personal milestone but also allowed me to contribute to breaking barriers in a field that was once largely inaccessible to women.

    What drives you to be at the top of your game? What are your success strategies?

    What drives me to be at the top of my game is my desire to pave the way for the next generation of young women in industries where they are still underrepresented. As a woman who has faced numerous challenges in proving myself in a male-dominated field, I want to provide the support and encouragement that young females need to pursue careers in areas like aviation, where women are still making strides. I believe success doesn’t follow a single formula; it’s about having determination, resilience, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, no matter how tough the journey.

    Have you dealt with failure? If so, how did you overcome it and resurge?

    Yes, like everyone, I’ve encountered failure. However, I view failures as valuable learning opportunities. The key is to embrace them, learn from the experience, and then move forward without dwelling on the past. I’ve learned not to let setbacks define me; instead, I focus on using them as stepping stones toward growth. Most importantly, I always remind myself to never give up, no matter how difficult the situation.

    How easy was it for you to speak up and share your story when times were tough?

    I won’t lie, the journey hasn’t been easy. But during tough times, I always remind myself that there are people; my family, friends, and supporters; who are eager to celebrate my success when I make it through. Being one of the first women to take this path in such a challenging field gave me the strength to keep pushing forward, not only for myself but for the younger generation who will follow. I felt a responsibility to make my country proud and to show that perseverance can lead to success, no matter the obstacles.

    What did you have to do in order to be able to do share your story to inspire others?

    In order to share my story and inspire others, I’ve made it a point to be visible and engaged. I’ve been featured in several articles, both within my company and internationally, which has helped amplify my message. I also stay active on social media, particularly on LinkedIn, to connect with others and share insights. Additionally, I make it a priority to participate in forums and panel discussions focused on aviation and the role of women in this field. By doing so, I hope to not only inspire others but also contribute to changing the narrative and creating more opportunities for women in aviation.