The 27-year-old Al Ali is a game changer in more ways than one. The young UAE national was the UAE’s first sports photographer, and then became the first UAE woman to become an ice hockey referee – we are in no doubt there are more firsts to follow! We are so proud to be able to feature her as a Top of Her Game #gamechanger that she is!
What do you consider the main achievements in your life?
The three biggest achievements in my life are:
• Being the first Emirati sport photographer &
• Becoming the first international hockey referee in the Middle East, and
• Being recognized as an ice hockey ambassador around the world.
What drives you to be at the Top of your Game? What are your success strategies?
I want to be the best I can be as a hockey player & a referee.
What are your success strategies?
Hard work & dedication are my key success strategies.
Have you dealt with failure? If so, how did you overcome it and resurge when all the chips were down?
Everyone goes through failure, obstacles & down moments; that’s what determines how strong you are to get back up &pursue your goals. I remind myself of my goals, why I started & how far I got. I don’t let anything stop me from achieving my goals.
Finally, it is important for us to recognize the power of men in supporting women. Is there a man who has played an instrumental role in your personal growth and success? Who are they and how did they influence you?
My biggest supporter of what I do in life was my dad. He let us do what we want,
My second supporter is my brother – he has always there for all my games; he is always there to support & encourage me.
My third most important group of supporters are my friends and coaches – they are always pushing me to be better and do more!