Born in the UAE to an Emirati father and an Indian mother, Tahany Taher’s childhood was a blend of experiences from both countries, shaping her worldview. After a successful career in banking, the onset of Covid-19 prompted her to reflect on her purpose and led her to start Hayawiia, a gourmet food destination that aimed to address systemic issues in the food supply industry. This initiative not only focused on social impact but also helped to stabilize inflated prices in the UAE market.
Starting with her own online platform, Tahany expanded Hayawiia to different channels and markets, including other GCC countries. Despite facing challenges such as cash flow management, she emphasized the importance of careful planning and execution in the early stages of a startup. Leveraging her banking experience, she worked with external partners to receive payments faster and ensure financial stability for her business.
As a woman entrepreneur, Tahany acknowledges the advantages of being in the UAE, where support for women-led startups is strong. However, she also recognized the risks and sacrifices involved, including the pressure of balancing her roles as a mother and a business owner. Despite the challenges, Tahany finds joy in positively impacting the lives of others through her work and aims to continue creating social impact through collaboration with other women entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, Tahany envisions the growth of Hayawiia and the potential for broader social impact through partnerships and mentorship. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seek guidance from experienced mentors and build a supportive community. Ultimately, Tahany’s journey highlights the importance of resilience, purpose-driven entrepreneurship, and the fulfillment that comes from making a difference in the lives of others.
