Questions:
- Tell us about yourself
My name is Hamda Al Shamsi, and I am a Chemical Engineer working with Geocycle UAE in the sustainability and waste management sector. My work is focused on supporting the responsible management and recovery of waste materials and helping transform waste into valuable resources.
As an Emirati woman working in an industrial and technical environment, I am proud to be part of a field that contributes directly to sustainability and the UAE’s vision for a more circular and resource-efficient future. Being the only woman at Geocycle UAE has also given me a unique opportunity to represent women in a sector where their presence is still growing.
- why did you choose to work in this field
I have always been interested in sustainability and the environment, and studying Chemical Engineering gave me the technical foundation to understand how industries can operate more efficiently and responsibly.
What attracted me to this field is that sustainability is not just an idea — it requires practical solutions. At Geocycle, I can see that impact firsthand through the recovery and co-processing of suitable waste materials, helping reduce reliance on landfill and contributing to the circular economy.
For me, it is rewarding to know that the work I do can have an impact beyond the workplace and contribute to a more sustainable UAE.
- how has your journey been so far and what inspired you to start a career / into this field?
My journey has been a continuous learning experience. Working in an industrial environment has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, build confidence, and understand different aspects of operations, sustainability, logistics, and stakeholder management.
Being the only woman at Geocycle UAE has also made the journey particularly meaningful. It has taught me that being different should not be seen as a limitation. Instead, it can be an opportunity to bring a different perspective and demonstrate that women can build successful careers in technical and industrial sectors.
I have been inspired by the UAE’s commitment to empowering women and creating opportunities for them to contribute across every sector. I am especially grateful for the path created by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, whose efforts have played such an important role in empowering Emirati women and encouraging them to pursue their ambitions.
- Your plans / way forward
I want to continue developing myself professionally while growing within the sustainability and waste management field. My goal is to gain deeper expertise in circular economy solutions and contribute to projects that create measurable environmental and business value.
I also hope to encourage more young Emirati women to consider careers in engineering, sustainability, manufacturing, and other technical fields. Sometimes, seeing someone like yourself in a particular role is what gives you the confidence to believe that you can do it too.
- One thing that has inspired you to achieve success and who would you contribute it to?
One of the biggest inspirations for me has been the opportunities created for Emirati women in the UAE. We are fortunate to live in a country where women are encouraged to learn, lead, and contribute across different sectors.
I would especially credit my family for teaching me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and believing in myself. I would also dedicate my achievements to every Emirati woman who chooses to step into a field that may not traditionally have many women in it.
My message to young Emirati women is simple: do not let being the first, the only, or the different person in the room hold you back. Let it motivate you to create a path for those who come after you.
