Michelle Saywood, Vice President at North 25 - Project Management of Dubai Holding and Meraas

For Michelle it has been an interesting journey from wanting to be an architect in London to being part iconic buildings that have shaped the Dubai’s skyline. Recollected her decision to relocate to Dubai to join Meeras, when the entity had just been established, Michelle says that she came with no expectations. “However, when I started getting involved in the projects and witnessing the impact the combination of art, architecture, and technology had on the city and people’s lives, it was so fulfilling and I wanted to continue to call this home,” says Michelle.

Proud Moments

Michelle acknowledges the fact that she was in a privileged position where she had access to the senior most leadership of the emirate. “It was an incredibly proud moment when His Highness would endorse a project, and there was always so much excitement about the potential that project would have on the city,” she adds.

Michelle was also a part of the Museum of the Future, where she played a crucial role in the initial stages of delivery and design. “Witnessing the vision transform into reality, along with the collaborative efforts of the architects, engineers, and contractors, is indeed a moment I will forever cherish,” she adds.

Barriers in Female Leadership

Michelle sees no difference between a man and a woman in a pr ofessional field. “I have always believed that we, as women, have always had an equal playing field in all regards. I have always seen myself as an equal and have never used or abused the fact that I am a woman. And it is this attitude that has driven me,” she adds.

Advice

“As a mom, I would say, this is not a 9-to-5 job. However, the key is to find that balance between your private, social, and professional life. I pride myself on being a professional and committed to delivering quality projects to the best of my ability. So, if you want to be in this industry, you must be able to find that balance.”