Evie Boustantzi, General Manager, Management Services, Bloom Holding; General Manager, bfm

One of the first things you notice about Evie is her passion for the built world. Having started in architecture, Evie moved into pioneering IoT-systems in construction, project management, consulting in real estate, and finally turning around and growing businesses through leadership roles in facilities/asset management and contracting. And it is this journey and passion that makes Evie inspiring.

Proud moments

Having worked with so many amazing people, Evie has had many proud moments. “The moments that stand out are the ones when my team came out of its’ comfort zone, charged up to achieve more, and conquer the hardest challenges. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing your people deeply proud of themselves after achieving what they never thought was possible. It is what makes it all worthwhile,” she expressed.

Barriers in Female Leadership

Evie said that the biggest barriers come when we allow it to happen. “Stereotypes come in many shapes and forms. How we deal with them is what makes all the difference in how we evolve. Embracing such challenges with a positive mindset turns them into opportunities, as they act as catalysts towards excelling,” she said. “On the other hand, the UAE leadership actively empowers women and has done a great job living by that commitment. The benefit of female presence in leadership is well documented and undisputed, reflected in the performance of the company but also in societal value,” she added.

Advice

“Believe in yourself. Become the best version of yourself and never stop learning. The one single thing that nobody can take from you is your knowledge, and knowledge is the highest form of power. Dare to dream big. Last but not least, remember to have fun and enjoy family time, it will make you a much better person and professional.”