Dr. Hardika Asser, a Tanzanian-born Emirati, made history over three decades ago by becoming the first licensed female veterinarian in the UAE. Even though she is now retired at 64, she remains active and focused on personal growth. She spends her days horse riding, practising yoga, and designing abayas. Dr. Hardika believes that her life has just begun, and she strives to make each day better than the last.
Having embraced horse riding at the age of 60 and incorporating yoga and healthy living, Dr. Hardika is currently in the best shape of her life, having lost over 20 kilograms. Her resilience and determination have been evident since her childhood in Tanzania, where she was surrounded by animals. After pursuing veterinary medicine in India, she faced challenges in obtaining her veterinary license in the UAE but persevered to pave her own path.
Despite being retired for a decade, Dr. Hardika remains committed to learning and inspiring others. She has continued her education in veterinary ophthalmology, focusing on treating cataracts in animals. Her passion for knowledge extends to languages, as she fluently speaks 12 and is currently learning American Sign Language. Health and well-being are top priorities for her, and she practices yoga, meditation, and cardio exercises daily, along with a strict vegetarian diet.
Raising her three daughters while managing her veterinary practice was no easy feat for Dr. Hardika. She encouraged her daughters to strive for continuous improvement and make their own decisions. Today, her daughters have successful careers, with one being a senior air traffic controller, another a registered nurse and assistant professor, and the third combating financial crime at an international bank.
Not content with just one skill, Dr. Hardika has also honed her talents in gardening and fashion. She has transformed her apartment into a lush indoor oasis and designs abayas for herself, her daughters, and their friends. Her love for horse riding led her to conquer her fear in her sixties, proving that it is never too late to pursue one’s passions. On Emirati Women’s Day, she advises young women to remain focused, prioritize their health, and persevere through challenges.
Dr. Hardika is grateful to the UAE for the opportunities it has provided her for growth and evolution. She encourages women to believe in achievable goals, prioritize health and happiness, maintain discipline and consistency, and always strive for sincere effort. Her story serves as an inspiration for women of all ages to pursue their dreams and overcome challenges with determination and resilience.
