about.

I’m Nadine Zidani,
a Sustainability Leader, Impact Entrepreneur, and Corporate Strategist with over 15 years of experience driving sustainable transformation across Europe and the Middle East. My journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and a relentless pursuit of purpose—rooted in my upbringing as the daughter of Moroccan immigrants in France.

Raised in humble beginnings, I was taught the values of gratitude, hard work, and giving back. These values shaped my early career as a computer science engineer, and later in leadership roles in audit and risk management across Europe and the Middle East. But it was a period of introspection during the pandemic that transformed my trajectory. Stepping away from the corporate world, I reconnected with my roots and realized that true success is not just about climbing the ladder but leaving a lasting impact.

My Vision for Sustainability

This realization sparked my passion to redefine the relationship between profit and purpose. I believe businesses are uniquely positioned to drive positive change, aligning their goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With this vision, I founded MENA Impact in 2021—a purpose-driven company dedicated to empowering organizations and individuals across the region to make a meaningful impact.

Based in the UAE, MENA Impact reflects my mission to build an “impact ecosystem” tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the MENA region. Through innovative solutions—including strategy consulting, sustainability certifications, and educational programs—I guide organizations on their sustainability journey, helping them create measurable environmental and social impact.

Achievements
& Impact

My efforts have been widely recognized:

  • In 2022, I was named LinkedIn’s Green Top Voice for MENA and honored with the Gulf Sustainability Awards 2024 for pioneering an impact-driven business model.
  • I led MENA Impact’s B Corp certification, making it one of only 20 companies in the region to meet this rigorous standard of ESG excellence.
  • I launched a youth-focused impact program equipping young professionals in underserved MENA countries with green skills to build purpose-driven careers.
  • As the host of the Impact Talk podcast, I amplify the voices of changemakers and tailor the sustainability narrative to resonate with the cultural values of our region.
  • I’ve partnered with private and public organizations across the GCC, guiding them in crafting ESG strategies, achieving certifications, and driving systemic change.

I’m also proud to have participated in COP28, where I contributed to global discussions on climate action, moderated panels, and highlighted innovative approaches linking climate, health, and creativity.

A Collaborative
Approach

Sustainability is not a solo journey, it requires collaboration. I work with corporations, NGOs, and governments to address the region’s pressing challenges. By fostering partnerships and leveraging creativity, innovation, and deep expertise, I help organizations achieve tangible results while advancing the SDGs.

A significant part of my mission is empowering Arab youth, especially in underserved communities. They represent the future, and through sustainability, we can create opportunities for them to lead the change our region needs.

My
Philosophy

“With privilege comes responsibility.” This belief drives everything I do. Whether it’s creating impactful business models, leading sustainability initiatives, or guiding others toward purpose-driven careers, my goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire positive transformation.

As a purpose-driven entrepreneur and sustainability advocate, I remain committed to creating a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for future generations. By combining resilience, passion, and optimism, I invite others to join me in shaping a brighter future.

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