Biography
Dina was born and raised in Dubai, U.A.E. She completed her B.A degree in Elementary Education at the American University of Beirut and further pursued her M.A degree in School Administration and Supervision through the University of Phoenix-Arizona. She loves working in HR - it’s a different world that needs her constant attention and passion. Dina still misses her students and being part of their growth, success and life!
How do you like living and working in UAE?
I was born and raised in the U.A.E. (my second home after Lebanon) therefore, living and working in Sharjah/Dubai was never a problem to me. On the contrary, I still love and learn a lot from both emirates, despite the short distance drive between each other, they are far apart in almost everything! That’s exactly why I respect and admire their differences, in terms of diversity, culture, and above all daily life style.
What is your biggest professional challenge?
I have many, but I’m specifically interested in being a pioneer in building an authentic, credible and sustainable training/development industry in the Middle East (especially in Lebanon and the U.A.E). I feel that the mind-set of the Middle East (especially GCC) countries is depending heavily on foreign and exported resources (trainers, programs, materials, etc.) and falsely believe that through them, success is guaranteed. That’s the mind-set we should all struggle to change and replace, how? With candidates, GCC Nationals or Arabs, who show commitment, devotion, have successful professional, educational backgrounds and experiences and have the ability to develop and improve our industries.
What is/are the most important thing/s you look for in new hires? Character/personality, presentation/appearance, professionalism/experience, wittiness and spirit!
What is the biggest challenge you face in hiring talent?
Retaining them is the biggest challenge! These days we have no control over the accommodation of the financial aspect of our employees, yet we have a certain amount of control over their performance. Talented people are becoming extinct and hard to please. Therefore, we need to stay on our toes the whole time, and provide a 24/7 aid kit around them, in case a sudden incident or attack takes place.
What is your favorite part of your role? It starts with the morning greetings at the hallways and ends on our way out of the company’s parking lot! People…people…people…they are the key element in accomplishing and achieving my daily roles successfully. I’ve learned that the strength of any HR Manager comes hand in hand with his/her colleagues’ mutual respect, sincere commitment and strong communication between each other and to the company’s vision and values.
What is your advice to someone looking to enter the field of HR?
Welcome on board!!! However, Never let go of your “human touch”…keep bouncing your creative ideas with your fellow departments…upgrade your trust and loyalty level with your co-workers…always walk an extra mile to achieve your goals…learn from your mistakes and pass the torch, with a smile!
If you could wave your magic stick and make a significant development in one specific area of HR practices worldwide, where would that fall?
Professional Development Programs and Recruitment.
