About me
Nadine Zidani is a sustainability expert and purpose-driven entrepreneur, who has embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and impact. Nadine’s journey is a story of roots, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of purpose.
Nadine was born and raised in France to Moroccan immigrants. Her humble upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to give back to her community. She pursued a degree in computer science at university, graduating as an engineer, and embarked on a career in audit and risk management. Throughout her career, she held leadership positions in prominent organizations across Europe and the Middle East.
For over a decade, she thrived in the corporate world and her path seemed set, but the pandemic hit and a year-long sabbatical led her to question her true impact. It was a period of introspection and reconnection with her roots, leading her to a realization that success was not merely climbing the ladder but leaving a lasting impact.
“I volunteered with an NGO in Paris, assisting African immigrants and refugees in learning French once a week. Those two hours brought a true sense of purpose to my week, unlike my 9-to-5 job.”
Witnessing the lack of purpose in many workplaces, she decided to redefine the relationship between profit and purpose. Challenging the notion that “doing good” is reserved for NGOs, Nadine believes businesses can be powerful agents of positive change by aligning and working towards achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals defined by the UN.
It is her calling to drive positive change for the environment and future generations, while empowering young people to find purpose and build successful careers that align with their values.
Armed with this vision, she started her own entrepreneurial journey in the Middle East. In 2021, she founded Mena Impact, a purpose-driven company based in the UAE dedicated to empowering MENA organizations and individuals for impact.
“The UAE is a land of entrepreneurship that gave me the courage to venture down that path and believe in my dreams. It’s the perfect place to start my company while reconnecting with my Arab roots.”
Nadine’s approach is untraditional and ambitious, opting to think big and setting a vision to build an “impact ecosystem” that fuels regional growth and showcases its potential. Recognizing the unique challenges of the MENA region, she offers a comprehensive solution – Consulting, an Academy, and Hubs – to address them head-on.
Understanding that true change starts from within, Nadine incorporates a human element into her sustainability approach. As an ICF Certified Coach, she guides people to find their purpose and become agents of transformation in society.
“Our region has its own challenges, from social and environmental standpoints. Yet, our youth count for more than half of the population, and sustainability opens endless opportunities for them to make a true impact and lead the change. Whatever we do, we should have them in mind.”
The journey hasn’t been without hurdles, especially in reconciling the gap between mission-driven ideals and traditional business models. Yet, Nadine sees these challenges as opportunities to trailblaze a new path for responsible businesses in the MENA region.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, she was recognized as a Top LinkedIn Voice in the sustainability category for the MENA region. Through public speaking engagements, social media content creation, and hosting the Impact Talk podcast, she continues to raise awareness about environmental and social issues, inspiring others to join the cause.
“I started my podcast to share amazing stories from the MENA region. The sustainability narrative needs to be tailored to our culture for people to relate. We can’t simply import stories from other regions; it won’t resonate.”
Her influence extends beyond online engagement. Nadine actively participated in COP28, the most significant summit tackling climate change. There, she contributed to critical discussions and led panels on innovative topics like the connection between climate and health, and the power of creativity in driving climate action.
Nadine partners with private and public organizations across the MENA region, guiding them through their sustainability journeys. Her multifaceted approach encompasses strategy, communication, certifications, and learning, all delivered with a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and deep expertise in sustainable development.
A firm believer in collaboration, Nadine fosters partnerships where others see competition. Together, she works with these organizations to achieve the shared goal of realizing the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“With privilege comes responsibility; that’s a motto I live by. I consistently use my voice to challenge the status quo and elevate all of us, bringing awareness to global issues.”
As a purpose-driven entrepreneur, Nadine builds with a core mission: impact. Her company isn’t just about profit; it’s about creating lasting impact. Leading by example, she inspires others to embrace sustainable business models.
Empowering Arab youth, particularly those facing economic hardships in underserved countries, is a cause close to her heart. It fuels her dedication to developing a successful impact business model that can serve as a blueprint for others.
Nadine’s story embodies the power of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to creating a more sustainable and just world for future generations. With courage and optimism, she leads the charge towards a brighter future, inspiring others to join her on this transformative journey.