#LifeLessons - Reem Osman

NAME: Reem Osman

INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @reem.m.osman

JOB TITLE: Saudi German Hospital Regional CEO

Reem Osman was born and raised in Syria and got her ophthalmology certificate from Latakia University. From there she moved to Saudi Arabia, where she worked as an ophthalmologist, before moving to Dubai, obtaining her MBA before moving into healthcare management.

Today Reem works as regional CEO, supervising the commissioning of the group hospitals in UAE, expansion plans, defining the regional group strategy and vision, direct monitoring of operations, ensuring operational excellence is obtained and putting the Saudi German Hospital Dubai on the map as a world-renowned healthcare provider.

Reem has also launched startups in marketing, real estate, and food and beverage, helping her grow her entrepreneurship skills besides the brilliant executive skills she has already defined over her 20 years of professional experience.

Reem is married to engineer Sobhi Batterjee and they have three girls aged 16, 15 and 13. Her spare time sees her winding down with family and close friends.

Reem's motto in life is 'Don't worry, be happy' - We love that!

Today Reem shares with us her biggest #LifeLearnings she hopes we can all learn from and enjoy.

#LIFELESSON – 1

My first life lesson is to follow your instincts, believe in your inner gut, and not be afraid of change. I had many experiences in life when a decision was supposed to be obtained, and I followed my sixth sense, regardless of all the other options; it proved to be right after a while and after numerous people doubted me.

At 28, freshly graduating with my master's in ophthalmology from my hometown in Syria, I decided it was time for a new start, a new country, and a new beginning. Moving to work in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as an eye doctor was not for a single female Arab woman and was highly unpopular. Still, it was one of the most enriching experiences in my life as a young female, professionally and personally.

I had the opportunity to work and interact with different nationalities and people from all over the world, which helped me tremendously in growing and maturing my mindset. One year after travelling abroad, I received a fellowship approval for pediatric ophthalmology from my university. Everyone around me encouraged me and tried to convince me that this was the path to success. But, I felt in my gut that this was not meant for me, and I preferred to continue in my path as there was more opportunity for me in this world other than academia.

Another life-changing decision was after marriage and moving to Dubai, where I decided to stop practicing as a doctor and realized I wanted to pursue education. I started my MBA while pregnant with my first daughter and finished it while pregnant with my third daughter. Getting my MBA and moving to healthcare management proved to be my passion.

#LIFELESSON – 2

My second life lesson is to lead by example. Whether at work or home, the easiest way to teach others is by leading by example and being a role model. As a CEO, I believe in an open-door policy and listening to my staff at work. By being in healthcare, I am available 24/7 as in this industry, we deal with people's lives, and as a top priority management member, I act as guidance for my staff to be present 24/7.

The same thing applies to the home. As a working mother of three girls, the best way of parenting was simply to become their role model. They see me focused on my work, on my family, on my house, and mostly about my well-being, and I thank God that I have three independent girls who are already pursuing their future at boarding schools and planning their careers from now plus having a solid relationship with their family and never taking their mother's busy schedule as an excuse of failure but as a push and motivation for success.

#LIFELESSON – 3

My third life lesson is to always be a student. Life is a big school, and we must keep our appetites open to learn in all aspects. I was happy and successful as an ophthalmologist, but going to the University of Wollongong in Dubai and exploring the opportunity of post-graduate studies opened the door for me to a new career, whether as a healthcare CEO or in my new adventures in startups.

Choosing a master's program that fits your lifestyle is crucial, especially when considering factors like location and support. For me, having UOWD's campus just 10 minutes from my home, along with its welcoming environment and supportive staff, played a key role in my decision to pursue this educational opportunity.

Post-graduate students come from diverse backgrounds—ranging from those in their 30s to 60s, whether single, married, or divorced, and balancing work, family, or other responsibilities. It's essential for institutions and professors to recognize and accommodate these varied circumstances, catering to everyone from young professionals seeking an MBA to working parents looking for a career shift.

Stay open to the daily lessons life teaches us, whether you're engaging with colleagues or clients, and remember that learning is a lifelong journey. I'm excited to embark on my new adventure as an entrepreneur, building startups for the next generation while keeping my curiosity and passion for learning alive.