The rise of the power moms

In a month dedicated to celebrating women, five single mothers in the UAE share their journeys of resilience, ambition, and personal growth — shattering limits, balancing careers, and proving that strength and success go hand in hand

Farhana Bodi isn’t here to prove a point — she’s here to set the standard. As a single mother, powerhouse entrepreneur, and star of Dubai Bling, she is redefining what it means to balance ambition with motherhood, one strategic move at a time.

“Being both a mother and a working woman is a constant balancing act,” she says. “For me, it all comes down to setting clear priorities.” Bodi believes that success doesn’t come from doing everything at once but from being fully present in the moment — whether that’s running her business empire or spending time with her son, Aydin. “When I’m working, I give it my all, and when I’m with Aydin, he has my undivided attention.”

Time management, she claims, is her superpower. By planning her schedule strategically, she ensures she’s there for life’s most important moments. “At the end of the day, it’s about quality over quantity. The time I spend with my son is meaningful and full of love.”

Changing the narrative

Motherhood in the professional world, especially as a single parent, is often met with scepticism. “People assume being a mother slows you down, or they question your ability to handle both work and parenting,” she reveals. “As a single mother, I’ve had to work twice as hard to prove that I can succeed in my career while giving my child the best life possible.”

Bodi has refused to let societal biases dictate her path. Instead, she focuses on her goals and blocks out the noise. “What needs to change is the way workplaces support mothers. Flexibility is key — mothers shouldn’t have to choose between being present for their children and advancing in their careers.” She believes companies need to embrace remote work, improve childcare support, and foster environments where working mothers don’t feel guilty for balancing their responsibilities.

Mindset shift

Motherhood, Bodi admits, has transformed her perspective on success, leadership, and resilience.

“Every decision I make — whether in business or life — is now guided by a bigger picture. I’m no longer just thinking about my own success; I’m thinking about building something that will benefit my son’s future.”

Her journey into motherhood has also made her more adaptable. “Children teach you that things won’t always go as planned, and that has helped me become a better leader — someone who can think on their feet, solve problems, and keep pushing forward no matter what.”

For mothers, especially single mothers struggling to find balance, Bodi offers a heartfelt message. “You are stronger than you think. There will be days when it feels overwhelming, when you question whether you’re doing enough, but trust me, you are.”

She urges women to let go of the pressure to be perfect. “Don’t be too hard on yourself. You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be present, loving, and doing your best.”

Her final words of advice? “Take breaks when you need to, ask for help without guilt, and remind yourself that your child doesn’t need a superhuman, they just need you. Keep going, keep believing, and know that everything you are working for today will create a better future for you and your child.”

If life came with a GPS, it would still reroute you through detours, roundabouts, and the occasional dead-end. But for Dr Imneet Madan, a renowned paediatric dentist, single mother, and a woman who has turned challenges into triumphs, the journey is about much more than just survival — it’s about thriving.

Widowed at a young age with small children, she faced one of life’s most profound upheavals. Yet, she never let adversity dictate her path.

“There’s no rulebook that teaches you how to live,” she says. “Balancing professional and personal responsibilities is never easy, but it’s certainly not impossible.”

Her strategy? Acceptance, followed by creating harmony in all aspects of life. A key tool in her arsenal is a concept from Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) called reframing — looking at situations from a positive perspective. “It’s about seeing the cup half full,” she explains. “I only discovered the term later, but I had been applying it to my life all along.”

Overcoming challenges

In a world that often places impossible expectations on working mothers, Dr Madan has learned the art of compartmentalisation. As a paediatric dentist, her profession demands her full attention, just like her children do. The key, she says, is structure — dividing time between her children’s activities, school, work, and personal care. “It sounds complicated, but it’s doable,” she insists.

Society, however, isn’t always accommodating. Mothers, especially single mothers, frequently face biases that question their ability to balance work and parenting. Dr Madan believes the solution lies in shifting focus from the problem to the solution. “The grass is greener where we water it,” she says. If we look for solutions, the right support comes forward.”

Dual transformation

Motherhood has fundamentally shaped Dr Madan’s leadership style. It has instilled in her a drive to move forward, a deep well of empathy, and a refined problem-solving ability — traits that are invaluable in both the workplace and at home.

But single mothers often grapple with guilt, feeling stretched between their careers and their children. Dr Madan, however, has found a way to rise above this emotional tug-of-war. “We need to practice inner work and recognise that both roles are equally important,” she says. “The key is to be kind to ourselves and stay connected to our inner selves to avoid burnout.”

For single mothers struggling to balance it all, Dr Madan has a message that’s both empowering and refreshingly real. “Progress matters more than perfection,” she says. “Having the entire cake isn’t the goal. Instead, it’s about celebrating small wins, creating beautiful memories, and seeing the beauty in what is, rather than what could have been.”

Let’s get one thing straight: being a single mother is already a full-time job. Add a thriving career to the mix, and you’ve got a balancing act that demands superhero-level time management. But for actress and model Eman Abo Al Nasr, it’s not just about survival, it’s about thriving, growing, and proving that motherhood and ambition can go hand in hand.

“Balancing work and motherhood requires intentionality and a strong support system,” says Eman. “When I’m working, I’m fully focused on my responsibilities. When I’m with my daughter, she has my undivided attention.” Setting clear boundaries, mastering time management, and embracing flexibility are her guiding principles. Some days, career takes the front seat; on others, motherhood demands more. And that’s okay.

Self-care, she insists, is non-negotiable. “Self-care is health care. If I’m not taking care of myself mentally, physically, and emotionally, it affects everything else in my life, my daughter, my work, the people around me. So yes, taking time off for yourself is absolutely fine!”

Eman also credits her strong support network, from friends who have become family to her ex-husband, whom she describes as “amazing” in his support. Living in Dubai for nearly 11 years, she feels grateful for the city’s well-structured environment and safety. “That feeling is priceless,” she says.

Challenging biases

Like many working mothers, Eman has encountered challenges and biases in her career. The assumption that she may not be as committed to her profession simply because she is a mother is one she has had to push back against. “I’ve had to advocate for myself, be clear about my capabilities, and seek environments that value both my expertise and my role as a mother,” she explains.

She applies that same mindset to her personal life. “My daughter is my priority. If I’m dating someone who doesn’t understand that, the relationship is over immediately.”

For workplaces to truly support working mothers, Eman believes flexibility is key. “Remote work options, paid parental leave, and childcare support should be the norm,” she says. “And honestly, there’s no better place than the UAE for that, it’s already happening here.”

More importantly, she wants to see a cultural shift in how motherhood is perceived. “Motherhood brings valuable skills — multitasking, empathy, resilience. These aren’t weaknesses; they’re strengths that make for better leaders.”

New perspective

Motherhood has not only reshaped Eman’s priorities but has also transformed her leadership style. “It’s made me more empathetic, a better listener, and a more decisive leader,” she reflects. “I’ve learned that not everything requires immediate attention, but the right things do.”

Her work is now deeply aligned with the values she hopes to instill in her daughter. “I want her to see that success isn’t just about professional achievements, it’s about leading with purpose, making thoughtful decisions, and creating impact.”

To fellow working mothers, especially single mothers, Eman offers words of encouragement: “You are enough. It’s okay if some days feel overwhelming, give yourself grace.”

For Eman, love is at the heart of everything. “Your children feel your love and support, even in the smallest gestures. I always tell my daughter I’m learning with her and from her. She replies, ‘So do I, Mama.’”

Leena Parwani doesn’t do “either-or.” She does it all — on her own terms. As a single mother and a successful entrepreneur, she’s defying outdated expectations, proving that women don’t have to choose between a thriving career and being present for their children.

“Balancing work and motherhood is never a perfect equation — it’s about making conscious choices every day,” she says. “I’ve learned that I can’t do everything at once, but I can be intentional about where I focus my time and energy.”

Parwani believes in quality over quantity when it comes to parenting. Instead of stressing over daily to-do lists, she focuses on long-term impact. She has built a family culture rooted in independence, confidence, and deep connections. “We have our rituals, our annual travels, and our non-negotiable bonding time. Some days, work takes priority; other days, it’s family. And that’s okay.”

Changing the workplace

Navigating the professional world as a working mother comes with its own set of challenges. Parwani has faced the all-too-common dilemma that many women encounter: the expectation that they must choose between being fully committed to their careers or fully present as mothers.

“I know the guilt of missing moments with my children, and I know so many mothers feel the same,” she says. But instead of accepting this as the norm, she’s working to change it.

As a leader, she advocates for flexibility and support for working mothers. “I always encourage the women I work with to show up for their children’s important moments — sports days, school events, anything that makes a child feel seen. Those small gestures make a huge difference, and no job should make a mother feel guilty for prioritising them.”

She believes companies need to shift their mindset. “When mothers feel supported in both their personal and professional lives, they bring even more value, focus, and dedication to their work. Flexibility and understanding aren’t just perks, they’re essential for a truly progressive work culture.”

Through the lens

Parwani credits motherhood with sharpening her leadership skills. “It has made me more decisive, adaptable, and emotionally intelligent, qualities that translate directly into business.” Managing a household and running a company both require efficiency, resilience, and the ability to handle unexpected challenges with grace.

More than anything, motherhood has redefined her idea of success. “It’s no longer just about professional achievements; it’s about alignment — ensuring that my work reflects my values and allows me to be present for what truly matters.” She also leads with empathy, knowing first-hand the struggles that working mothers face. “I want to create an environment where women don’t feel they have to choose between career growth and family.”

To fellow working mothers, especially single mothers, who feel overwhelmed, Parwani offers a reality check: perfection is a myth, and chasing it only leads to exhaustion. “You don’t have to do it all, and you don’t have to do it alone,” she asserts. “Focus on what truly matters. Train your kids to be independent, set boundaries at work, and be present in the moments that count.”

She acknowledges the guilt that comes with missing time with children but stresses that it’s not about being there for everything — it’s about showing up enough for them to know they are loved and supported.

“And to all the working mothers out there, especially single mothers: Every step you take, whether in your career or at home, is shaping a better future for you and your children. Give yourself grace, trust the process, and remember that success isn’t about doing everything at once — it’s about building a life that works for you.”

In a journey marked by resilience, hard work, and unwavering love, Shefali Munshi proves that being a single mother is not a limitation — it’s a superpower

If anyone ever doubted that a woman could have it all — career, confidence, and an unshakable bond with her child — Global Events PR & Marketing Strategist Shefali Munshi is living proof that they’re wrong. A single mother since her child was just 11 months old, Shefali has built a thriving career while raising her son, now 25 years of age, and who embodies resilience, strength, and adaptability — qualities she has fiercely championed through her own journey.

Shattering limits with grace

“The most transformative lesson I’ve learned as a single mother is the importance of resilience and adaptability,” Shefali says. From navigating the unfamiliar terrain of solo parenting to learning how to drive, manage finances, and even handle mundane tasks like paying DEWA bills (she laughs about it now), she has embraced every challenge with grace and humour. “Success isn’t about following a straight path, but about trusting the process, staying resilient, and adjusting to challenges as they come.”

Shefali credits this mindset not only for shaping her own growth but also for empowering her son. “He learned early on how to adapt, be strong and navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence.”

Career vs. motherhood

For Shefali, being a single mother in the UAE came with its own unique set of challenges. However, she insists that the country’s progressive work culture helped her forge her path. “I was incredibly fortunate to have employers who supported me. My son, from the age of one, would accompany me to work and had access to in-house hotel facilities — he learned to swim and spent time at the kids’ club while I put in long hours in sales and marketing,” she reminisces. “Le Royal Meridien and Grand Hyatt Dubai truly had the best work culture that allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.”

Her career, spanning decades in hospitality, events, and PR, was demanding. Yet, she never shied away from the hard work, often juggling extensive travel while ensuring her son never felt neglected. “During my time at Wizcraft International, I was practically living out of a suitcase. But I was lucky — there were times when he could travel with me. That made all the difference.”

By the time her son entered his teens, Shefali took the entrepreneurial leap. “I started my PR, events and consulting business 14 years ago to have more flexibility and be present for him when it mattered most. The UAE’s support for mental well-being and family structures truly reflects the Ruler’s vision, it played a crucial role in shaping my journey.”

Leadership masterclass

Motherhood, she believes, doesn’t hinder professional growth, it enhances it. “Being a mother teaches you patience, efficiency, and a deep sense of responsibility. These qualities naturally translate into the workplace.” She stresses on how single-handedly raising a child has refined her leadership skills, making her more efficient with time management, empathetic in decision-making, and resilient against challenges.

“Every decision I made was guided by a bigger purpose — providing stability and a better future for my child.”

To those who are struggling to find balance, Shefali offers a dose of encouragement. “You are stronger than you think,” she insists. “Balancing career and motherhood isn’t easy, but every challenge makes you more resilient, more capable, and more adaptable.”

She urges single mothers to embrace flexibility, lean on their support systems, and prioritise their well-being. “Life won’t always go as planned, but you’ll find a way. And most importantly, never feel guilty for pursuing your dreams. Your growth inspires your children, showing them the power of perseverance and ambition.”