Sheraa has launched the inaugural Sharjah Women Impact Fellowship (SWIF), introducing the program’s first cohort of 12 exceptional women founders whose ventures reflect innovation, resilience, and a deep commitment to social and economic impact.
The inaugural cohort includes Asma AlQaseer, Founder of FirmFox; Dania Shahin, Founder and CEO of Salsa Cooks; Dr. Noora Alshamsi, Founder and CEO of Noora Shamsi Jewellery; Mahra Al Hosani, Founder and CEO of Pharmedic; Ruba Al Nashash, COO and Co-Founder of Pulse IoT Technologies; and Malin Delin, Co-Founder of Hylo.
They are joined by Noora Al Suwaidi, Co-Founder of Teel Floral Studio and Lamak Studios; Maya Sherif Ibrahim, Founder of More.Than; Rana Askoul, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Khateera; Qadreya Al Awadhi, Founder and CEO of Bumblebee Food; Maitha Al Ansari, Founder of Locallure ; and Dr. Fida Deyab, Founder and Chairperson of Tapy.
H.E. Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), said: “The Sharjah Women Impact Fellowship turns shared purpose into shared power, proving that when women rise together, entire economies rise with them. It brings together founders whose vision and resilience are shaping Sharjah’s next chapter of entrepreneurship, one built on innovation and impact. The Fellowship is not only about scaling ventures, but about forging connections and amplifying the voices of women who lead with conviction and heart.”
H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, added: “Sheraa’s mission has always centered on people; their potential, their ideas, and their ability to create meaningful change when supported by the right environment. The Sharjah Women Impact Fellowship was designed to empower established founders to scale their ventures, connect with new markets, and leverage Sheraa’s rich ecosystem of expertise, mentorship, and collaboration. It is a journey of growth that equips participants with the tools, partnerships, and confidence to expand their impact and strengthen their leadership presence.”
An AED 500,000 equity-free grant, generously endowed by Dr. Asma Fikri and H.E. Amna Fikri, daughters of the late Dr. Mahmoud Mohamed Fikri, former WHO Regional Director and distinguished UAE public servant, forms the heart of the fellowship. The grant honors Dr. Fikri’s legacy of empowerment and dedication to advancing women’s leadership and community well-being, ensuring that his values continue to inspire a new generation of changemakers.
The Sharjah Women Impact Fellowship reflects Sheraa’s vision of an entrepreneurial community led by women who inspire change and shape the future with confidence. Since its inception, Sheraa has supported over 450 startups, generating more than USD 370 million in revenue and attracting nearly USD 300 million in investment, with 51% founded or co-founded by women, a testament to Sharjah’s commitment to human empowerment and purpose-driven innovation.
